Description / Abstract: Introduction

Note: Nothing in this standard supercedes applicable laws and regulations.

Note: In the event of conflict between the English and domestic language, the English language shall take precedence.

Purpose. Condensation will form on the outside of the Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Module, related air ducts, portions of the Instrument Panel (IP) and/or the floor console (if applicable) when operated in hot humid environmental conditions. This procedure can be used to observe/re-create customer satisfaction concerns. This test procedure is not inclusive of all situations that cause condensation to form on HVAC components. The only certainty is that condensate will form on components when the surface temperature is below the dew point of the surrounding air. The quantity of condensation generated is determined by many factors and too numerous to cite in this document.

Applicability. All vehicles with Air Conditioning (A/C) systems. This procedure should not be used as a definitive pass/fail criteria for condensation handling. This procedure recreates a rare user profile and will generate a significant amount of condensation. The duration of this procedure is 2 h, but even more condensation will be created if the duration of the test is extended.

Remarks. Condensate formed outside HVAC module, HVAC ducts, HVAC outlets, or the IP can drip on top of or enter other components producing improper function or undesirable damp conditions. Condensate may also drip onto passengers’ lower legs or feet unexpectedly, dissatisfying the occupant.