Use and Maintenance of Excavator Air Conditioning Systems

✅ Proper Use of Excavator Air Conditioning

Start-up Sequence: Start the engine first, and turn on the air conditioning only after it has stabilized. This prevents placing excessive strain on the engine when the air conditioning is first turned on.

Regular Operation: Even if not used frequently, it is recommended to run the air conditioning at idle once a week. This circulates the lubricating oil within the air conditioning system and prevents the compressor from seizing due to lack of oil.

Temperature Setting: Set the temperature appropriately based on the actual environment, avoiding excessively low settings. Excessively low temperatures increase engine load and fuel consumption, and may cause discomfort to the operator.

Airflow Mode: Select the “Face” mode for cooling in summer; select the ‘Feet’ mode for heating in winter; select the “Windshield” mode when defrosting is needed. Different modes efficiently meet specific needs and enhance comfort.

Recirculation/Fresh Air: Use recirculation when dust levels are high to block external pollutants; switch to fresh air after prolonged driving to ensure air circulation. Recirculation cools or heats the cabin quickly and prevents dust from entering; fresh air mode refreshes the air and prevents drowsiness caused by oxygen deprivation.

Before Stopping/Turning Off the Engine: A few minutes before reaching your destination, turn off the A/C switch but keep the fan running. Allowing the fan to dry moisture on the evaporator prevents mold growth and unpleasant odors inside the air conditioning system.

After prolonged disuse: Before using the system again, turn on the air conditioning while the engine is idling, and let it run for at least 5 minutes before accelerating. This ensures the refrigerant and compressor oil are fully mixed, preventing compressor damage caused by insufficient lubrication.

Following the “Inspect-Clean” process ensures the air conditioning system operates stably and efficiently.

Clean the air filter Use compressed air (pressure approx. 0.2 MPa) to blow the filter clean from the inside out. Inspect daily; clean immediately if dust accumulation is severe; increase cleaning frequency to every 500 hours or in dusty environments.

Check belt tension Press the center of the pulley with your finger (approx. 6.2 kgf); the deflection should be 6.3–8.7 mm. Check every 250 hours.

Clean the Condenser Use a soft-bristle brush or low-pressure water gun (pressure ≤ 2 MPa) to remove surface dirt, catkins, and other debris to prevent damage to the fins. Once a week, or clean regularly based on the operating environment.

Check refrigerant level Observe through the sight glass of the desiccant bottle: a few bubbles are normal; a prolonged absence of bubbles or excessive bubbles may indicate an abnormality. Check at least once a year, or investigate when cooling performance declines.

Inspect hoses and fittings Visually inspect all air conditioning hoses for cracks, aging, or wear, and check for oil stains at the fittings. Perform during routine inspections weekly or every 250 hours.

Inspect Compressor Exterior Inspect the compressor surface to ensure wiring connections are secure and that there is no mud, dirt, or other debris on the clutch. Perform this during routine daily inspections.

Maintenance During Downtime Start and run the air conditioner for at least 3–5 minutes each month to circulate the refrigerant and lubricate the seals. Perform this once a month during seasons when the air conditioner is not in use (e.g., winter).

Common Problems and Simple Troubleshooting

Air conditioner provides no cooling at all----Electrical issues, compressor not running, severe refrigerant leak.

1. Check the fuses and control panel settings;

2. Listen for a “click” sound when turning on the A/C to determine if the clutch is engaging;

3. Check if the belt is too loose or broken.

Poor cooling/low airflow—clogged air filters, poor condenser heat dissipation, insufficient refrigerant.

1. Prioritize cleaning or replacing the interior and exterior air filters;

2. Check if the condenser fins are clogged with dust or cottonwood fluff;

3. Check the compressor belt tension.

Unusual noises during AC operation---- Belt slippage, internal compressor malfunction, or worn fan bearings.

1. Check and adjust the belt tension;

2. If the noise comes from the compressor, contact a professional for repair.

Routine Maintenance Schedule

Daily/Before each operation: Inspect the air conditioner filter, condenser, and radiator surfaces.

Every 250 hours: Check and adjust the compressor belt tension.

Every 500 hours: Clean or replace the indoor and outdoor air filters.

Annually/When cooling performance decreases: Check refrigerant levels and system pressure.

During periods of inactivity/Monthly: Run the air conditioner on idle for 3–5 minutes.