Imagine driving on a hot summer day, feeling the sweat forming on your forehead and the stifling air making it hard to breathe. Now, imagine having a cool, refreshing breeze blowing directly at you, relieving you from the scorching heat. In this article, you will learn the step-by-step process of how to hook up an under dash car AC unit, allowing you to enjoy a comfortable and cool ride no matter the weather outside. Say goodbye to sweaty drives and hello to a refreshing and enjoyable journey with this simple installation guide.
Gather the Necessary Tools and Materials
Before you begin installing an under dash car AC unit, it’s important to gather all the necessary tools and materials. Having everything prepared will make the installation process much smoother and efficient. Here’s a list of the tools and materials you’ll need:
Tool 1: Wrench
A wrench will be essential for loosening and tightening any bolts or nuts during the installation. Make sure you have a wrench that is suitable for the size of the bolts you’ll be working with.
Tool 2: Screwdriver
A screwdriver is another vital tool you’ll need for removing and attaching screws. Having a variety of screwdriver sizes will ensure that you can handle any screws encountered during the installation process.
Tool 3: Wire crimping tool
To properly connect and secure the wires, a wire crimping tool is necessary. This tool allows you to create strong and lasting connections between wires and connectors.
Material 1: AC unit kit
The AC unit kit will typically include the necessary components for installing the under dash AC unit. This may include the main unit, vents, mounting hardware, and other necessary parts. Make sure you have a reputable and high-quality AC unit kit to ensure effective cooling in your car.
Material 2: Wiring harness
A wiring harness is essential for safely connecting the AC unit to the car’s electrical system. It simplifies the wiring process and ensures that the connections are secure and well-organized.
Material 3: Circuit breaker
To protect your car’s electrical system from overloading, it’s vital to install a circuit breaker. This will help prevent any potential damage or hazards caused by excessive electric current. Make sure to choose a circuit breaker appropriate for your AC unit’s power requirements.
Prepare the Car
Before you start mounting the AC unit, you need to prepare your car for the installation process. This involves performing a few necessary tasks.
Subheading 1: Disconnect the battery
To ensure your safety and prevent any electrical mishaps, it’s crucial to disconnect the car battery before working on the electrical system. Locate the battery, usually found under the hood, and carefully disconnect the negative terminal first, followed by the positive terminal.
Subheading 2: Locate the fuse box
To make the wiring process easier, locate the car’s fuse box. It is typically located under the dashboard or in the engine compartment. Familiarize yourself with the fuse box layout as you may need to access it during the installation process.
Subheading 3: Remove existing components
Before installing the AC unit, remove any existing components that may obstruct the installation process. This may include dash panels, vents, or any other components that impede access to the mounting location or electrical connections.
Mount the AC Unit
Now that the car is prepared, you can proceed to mount the under dash AC unit. Follow these steps to ensure a secure and stable installation.
Subheading 1: Choose the mounting location
Carefully choose the ideal mounting location for the AC unit under the dashboard. Consider factors such as accessibility, visibility, and airflow. Make sure to select a location that will not interfere with your legroom or any existing components in the dashboard.
Subheading 2: Mark the drilling points
Once you’ve determined the mounting location, use a marker or a pencil to mark the drilling points on the mounting surface. Double-check the alignment and ensure that the unit will be level and securely attached.
Subheading 3: Drill the holes and secure the unit
Using an appropriate drill bit, carefully drill the marked holes into the mounting surface. After drilling the holes, position the AC unit over the holes and secure it with the provided mounting hardware. Make sure the unit is tightly fastened and stable.
Connect the AC Unit to the Car Battery
With the AC unit mounted, it’s now time to connect it to the car’s electrical system. Follow these steps to ensure a proper connection.
Subheading 1: Locate the positive and negative terminals
Locate the positive and negative terminals on the car’s battery. The positive terminal is usually labeled with a “+” sign, while the negative terminal is labeled with a “-” sign. Familiarize yourself with these terminals for the next steps.
Subheading 2: Connect the wires to the battery terminals
Using wire connectors or crimping tools, connect the wires from the AC unit to the corresponding battery terminals. Typically, the red wire connects to the positive terminal, and the black wire connects to the negative terminal. Ensure the connections are secure and tight to prevent any electrical issues.
Subheading 3: Install a circuit breaker
To protect the electrical system from potential overloading, install a circuit breaker in line with the power supply wire. This added safety measure will help prevent electrical damage or hazards. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to properly install the circuit breaker.
Install the Wiring Harness
A wiring harness simplifies the installation process and ensures that the electrical connections are organized and secure. Follow these steps to install the wiring harness properly.
Subheading 1: Route the wiring harness
Begin by routing the wiring harness from the AC unit to the fuse box and battery. Be mindful of any sharp or moving components that could damage the wires. Ensure that the wiring harness is tucked away neatly and out of sight to maintain a clean and professional installation.
Subheading 2: Connect the wiring harness to the AC unit
Using the provided connectors and crimping tools, connect the wires from the wiring harness to the corresponding terminals on the AC unit. Double-check the connections to ensure they are secure and free from any loose wires.
Subheading 3: Connect the wiring harness to the battery
Continue routing the wiring harness towards the battery, making sure it is safely away from any hot or moving parts. Connect the appropriate wires from the wiring harness to the corresponding terminals on the battery. Again, double-check the connections to ensure they are secure and properly organized.
Connect the AC Unit to the Dashboard Controls
In order to control the under dash AC unit, you’ll need to connect it to the existing dashboard controls. Follow these steps to establish the necessary connections.
Subheading 1: Locate the existing controls
Identify the location of the existing dashboard controls for the AC system, usually located on the center console or near the driver’s area. Familiarize yourself with the layout and connections of these controls.
Subheading 2: Disconnect the controls
Carefully disconnect the existing dashboard controls by removing any screws or wires connecting them to the car’s electrical system. Take note of the connections and labels to ensure you can properly reconnect them later.
Subheading 3: Connect the AC unit controls
Connect the wires from the under dash AC unit to the corresponding terminals on the dashboard controls. Follow the labels and instructions provided by the AC unit manufacturer to ensure the correct connections are made. Make sure the connections are secure and tight.
Test the AC Unit
Now that you’ve completed the installation, it’s time to test the functionality of the under dash AC unit. Follow these steps to ensure everything is working correctly.
Subheading 1: Turn on the car
Start the car and let the engine run. This will provide power to the AC unit and allow it to cool the interior.
Subheading 2: Adjust the settings
Using the newly connected AC unit controls on the dashboard, adjust the settings to your desired temperature and fan speed. Ensure that you feel cool air coming out of the vents and that the AC unit responds to the changes in settings.
Subheading 3: Check for leaks or malfunctions
Inspect the AC unit and the surrounding area for any signs of leaks, unusual noises, or malfunctions. Look for any loose wiring connections or potential areas of concern. If everything appears to be functioning well and there are no obvious issues, you can proceed to the next step.
Secure and Insulate the Connections
To ensure the longevity and reliability of your under dash AC unit installation, it’s important to properly secure and insulate the connections. This will protect them from external factors and prevent any potential performance issues.
Subheading 1: Use zip ties to secure wires
Secure any loose wires using zip ties or cable clamps. This will prevent them from moving or getting tangled, ensuring a clean and organized appearance.
Subheading 2: Wrap the connections with electrical tape
To add an extra layer of protection and insulation, wrap the connections with electrical tape. This will shield them from moisture, heat, and other potential damaging elements.
Subheading 3: Insulate the AC unit
If necessary, use insulation materials, such as foam or insulating tape, to wrap around the AC unit. This will further enhance its cooling efficiency and protect it from external factors that could affect its performance.
Reassemble the Car
With the under dash AC unit installed and properly secured, you can now reassemble any components that were removed during the installation process.
Subheading 1: Reinstall existing components
Carefully reinstall any dash panels, vents, or other components that were removed earlier. Make sure they are properly aligned and securely attached, paying attention to any clips or fasteners that may be required.
Subheading 2: Connect the battery
Reconnect the car’s battery by first connecting the positive terminal and then the negative terminal. Ensure that the terminals are tightened securely.
Subheading 3: Test the AC unit again
Before considering the installation process complete, test the AC unit once more to ensure it is still functioning properly. Adjust the settings and observe the performance to ensure there are no issues or changes after reassembly.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
To keep your under dash AC unit running smoothly and troubleshoot any potential problems, it’s important to perform regular maintenance checks and inspections.
Subheading 1: Regularly clean the AC unit
Periodically clean the AC unit to remove any dust, dirt, or debris that may accumulate over time. This will ensure optimal cooling performance and prevent any blockages that could hinder its efficiency.
Subheading 2: Check for system leaks
Regularly inspect the AC unit and its components for any signs of leaks. Look for any unusual moisture or wet spots that may indicate a refrigerant leak. Address any leaks promptly to prevent further damage to the AC unit.
Subheading 3: Troubleshoot common problems
If you encounter any issues with the under dash AC unit, consult the manufacturer’s manual or seek professional assistance to troubleshoot the problem. Follow their recommended steps and guidelines to identify and resolve any common problems that may arise.
By following these comprehensive steps, you can successfully install an under dash AC unit in your car and enjoy the comfort of cool air during those hot summer drives. Remember to gather all the necessary tools and materials, prepare the car properly, and take the time to secure and insulate the connections for a reliable and efficient installation. Regular maintenance and troubleshooting will ensure that your under dash AC unit continues to perform optimally for years to come. Stay cool and enjoy the ride!
