10 Useful Tips to Maintain Your Car's Air Conditioning System

Are you tired of getting into a hot, stuffy car on a scorching summer day? We've all been there. Your car's air conditioning system is supposed to be your savior, but what happens when it starts failing you? Don't worry; you don't have to suffer through the heat any longer. With a little maintenance and care, you can keep your car's air conditioning system in tip-top shape and stay cool and comfortable on your daily drives.

In this blog, we'll share 10 useful tips to help you maintain your car's air conditioning system, so you never have to dread getting into a hot car again.

 

10 Tips to maintain your car’s air conditioning system:

 

1. Use defrost mode weekly

Running your car's air conditioning on defrost mode for 10 minutes weekly can help maintain gas pressure, clean out moisture, prevent mildew, and keep your compressor running well. This also includes using your air conditioning during winter to remove humidity and defog the windshield.

 

2. Keep an eye on the refrigerant

Your car's air conditioning system relies on fluids, specifically refrigerant, to function. If you notice that the air conditioning seems lukewarm or the airflow is weak, it could be a sign that you need to replenish your refrigerant. Recharging your air conditioning system every two years is recommended, and it's best to take your car to a trusted mechanic to have this done.

 

3. Change your air filter

Air filters keep the inside of your car's engine clean and prevent dust and dirt from entering. A dirty filter can clog the airway, reduce the coolness of the car’s AC, lower your fuel efficiency, and make your car's AC system less efficient. Change your car's air filter regularly to ensure you're always breathing clean, cold air, and to improve your gas mileage by up to 10 percent.

 

4. Don't pre-cool your car

Your car's air conditioning operates most efficiently while driving. Instead of pre-cooling your car, try this trick on scorching hot days: Turn the fan to high as soon as you start driving, and roll down only the backseat windows for 10 to 20 seconds. This will help to drive out the hot air and let in some fresh air to cool you down. 

 

5. Set the A/C to the coldest setting

The air conditioning is most efficient when set to the lowest temperature, and adjusting the fan for comfort. When the temperature is raised, the system needs to reheat the air, which results in the consumption of more fuel during the burning process.

 

6. Listen for noises

If you hear noises while your AC runs or notice erratic behavior from your air conditioning system, it could be a sign that your compressor is nearing the end of its life. Knowing the signs of a worn compressor can help you replace it before it dies and leaves you without AC.

 

7. Avoid recirculating air for backseat passengers

Avoid using the recirculation mode if you have backseat passengers. This mode pulls air from the front of the vehicle and re-cools it, leaving air stale and hot in the back.

 

8. Avoid opening windows when using A/C

When driving with the air conditioning on, it's important to keep the windows closed. Opening the windows will only make the A/C system less efficient, as it will need to work harder to cool the interior. This puts extra strain on the system, which can lead to higher coolant and fuel consumption, ultimately costing you more in the long run. 

 

9. Park in shaded areas

Leaving your car in the sun for extended periods can lead to excessive heat buildup in the interior, forcing the air conditioning system to work harder to cool the car. To prevent this issue, it is advisable to park your car under a shade or use sunshades to shield it from direct sunlight.

 

10. Maintain a clean car interior

Regularly vacuuming the carpets, mats, and seats in your car is crucial to ensure that dust, dirt, and other particles do not impede the efficient functioning of the air conditioner.

 

By following these ten tips, you can keep your car's air conditioning system functioning at its best and enjoy a cool, comfortable ride on even the hottest summer days. Regular maintenance and attention can prevent costly repairs and ensure that your air conditioning is running smoothly.