Since its introduction in the 1950s, auto air conditioning has graduated from luxury addition to mainstream standard. Not only do many of today's new cars include air conditioning as a standard feature, but thousands of used-car owners add air conditioning to their vehicles every year. Yet, despite its prevalence, most car owners don't really understand how car air conditioning works or what to look for (or where to look for it) when something is amiss.

While you should visit a mechanic for significant problems, (the air conditioner system itself is highly pressurized and opening this system should be left to a professional), there are several everyday issues that you can address and a few handy guidelines to help you destinguish the mountain from the molehill.

In a nutshell, your auto air conditioner uses variations in pressure to remove heat from the air in your car, then carries the heat outside the vehicle, and returns the newly cooled gas into the passenger space.

There are five integral elements to an auto air conditioner: The compressor, condenser, receiver-dryer, expansion valve and evaporator. Check out 'Trouble-shooter's Guide to Auto Air Conditioning' for an overview of each of the five parts, where they are and what they do. When you do have a hiccup in your car air conditioner, familiarize yourself with these five elements and the guide to see if it's something you can easily tackle at home.

For instance, perhaps the compressor isn't working, or your fan works but the air doesn't get as cool as it should. A dirty condenser or evaporator might simply need a cleaning, but if your clutch is slipping you should talk to a mechanic.

Each of these symptoms is a clue that you can decipher, and many indicate ordinary issues that can be addressed with light maintenance or a simple fix. For more details about these common glitches, check out the full article from Mother Earth News, 'Auto Air Conditioning'.