2007 Sportage - Vapor from vents / water buildup

ghog22

I have 2 problems that I don't know if they are related or not. Also not sure what the problems could be. My mechanic is stumped as well.
1. When the a/c has been running for a bit, vapor comes out of the vents (only middle, not side). Cold air no longer circulating. I turn it off for a few minutes, then back on. It is okay for about 5-10, then the vapor starts again.
2. Water builds up when front defrost or a/c are on. When I park, the water gushes out and I hear it sizzle when it hits engine parts. I have had the a/c drain line cleaned twice.
Can anyone help diagnose these issues?

imidazol97

@ghog22 said:
1. When the a/c has been running for a bit, vapor comes out of the vents (only middle, not side). Cold air no longer circulating. I turn it off for a few minutes, then back on. It is okay for about 5-10, then the vapor starts again.

That sounds like the evaporator is icing up. You don't indicate if you are in a very warm humid climate or not that that would be my guess. And it probably occurs when you are at cruising speeds. So my thinking is it's a low charge on the freon. That in some cars would make the temperature of the evaporator colder and that freezes the moisture in the air that the evaporator is cooling. Often after turning off the AC and just using VENT you will hear the ice fall away from the evaporator.

When frozen that would stop much of the air movement. Try operating the AC for 5 minutes then turn it off for 2 and keep repeating. That should keep it from freezing.

My logic is that the unit is probably a very nice and cold AC compared to other cars until it freezes up. Have unit charged to proper amount of freon.

2. Water builds up when front defrost or a/c are on. When I park, the water gushes out and I hear it sizzle when it hits engine parts. I have had the a/c drain line cleaned twice.

The water accumulation is normal. The drain tubes usually have a way of closing off the end somewhat until the weight of water above opens the flap or tip. Then the water comes out in a burst until the flap closes. Closing the end of the tip avoids bugs or engine fumes from getting into the evaporator space.