As we head into the colder months, it’s a good time to consider cleaning your car’s air conditioning system, especially if it’s been used frequently over summer. Most car owners tend to forget about their air conditioning system until the warm weather comes around again, but this approach can be costly in the long run.
Here are some simple ways to ensure your AC system remains in tiptop condition and ready for when the summer heat kicks off again.
1. Recharge your air conditioning system
While your air conditioner may not demand as much of your attention as other parts of your car, it’s important to note that it works hard to create the ideal environment within your car’s cabin. It does this by circulating refrigerant through various components to cool the air down before its distributed through vents into the vehicle.
Your car loses a small portion of refrigerant every time you use it; that’s why it’s recommended to have your car’s AC system's refrigerant recharged or replaced every two years. You can either top up your air conditioning system’s refrigerant yourself or take it to your local mechanic to have it professionally done.
2. Clean your air conditioner regularly
You should clean your car’s air conditioner system regularly for it to work efficiently and optimally. A dirty filter, for example, can lead to bigger and more expensive issues if left uncleaned. Additionally, dirt can hinder the airflow, placing extra demand on your aircon system and leading to more stress on the engine. This can affect the overall performance and fuel economy of your vehicle.
The internal working parts of your AC are prone to the build-up of bacteria, so they should be cleaned, dusted, and vacuumed regularly. This helps prevent dust and debris from accumulating, keeps the airflow uninterrupted, and your vehicle fresh and odour-free. If you’re taking your car in for a service, this is an ideal time to ask your mechanic to check the filters and clean or replace parts as needed.
An ideal air conditioner cleaner spray for this cleaning job is CRC Auto AC Pro Cleaner, which cleanses and sanitises a car’s air conditioner systems. CRC Auto AC Pro Cleaner is an air conditioner cleaner with an easy-to-use applicator that gets deep into your car’s AC system – allowing for a thorough cleaning that delivers similar results to getting it professionally cleaned.
It not only removes mould and bacteria but also eliminates odours and leaves a pleasant, citrus fragrance. To top it off, the professional quality formulation offers long-lasting protection.
Alternatively, you could visit your local hardware store and talk to one of the team about options. For example, you can get an air conditioner cleaner from your local store.
3. Let the air conditioner system run at least once a week
Running your AC system at least once a week will maintain the gas pressure necessary to keep the compressor working properly. It can also help ensure your windows don’t fog and avoid the build-up of moisture.
To be most effective, set your air conditioner to the coolest setting and the fan to the fastest speed and leave this running for at least 10 minutes. You’ll start to notice fresher air, better cooling, and even a potential reduction in mechanical issues.
4. Run the air conditioner’s defrost mode for about 10 minutes
Another operation that should be left running for about 10 minutes periodically is the AC’s defrost function. This helps eliminate excess moisture in the system and prevents the build-up of mould, bacteria and musty odours.
5. Turn off your air conditioner properly
It’s common for people to switch off their car engine without switching off the AC first, which can cause costly problems further down the track. By not switching off the air conditioner, the fan keeps running, which can lead to a build-up of moss and bacteria.
When you switch off the AC before switching off your car, it will help clear the evaporator and AC components, helping avoid moss and bacteria growth and keeping the air fresh and healthy. It will also help your air conditioner last longer.
6. Don’t pre-cool your car
Sliding into a pre-cooled car can be comfortable in the warmer months, but it can affect your air conditioner’s performance in the long run. Your car’s air conditioning system can cool the environment more effectively when there’s airflow, so it’s better to let the hot air out of the car by opening the door or windows first. Then, once you start driving, turn on the air conditioner.
7. Park in the shade
Leaving your car in the heat creates a warm interior and long-term heat exposure can damage your car’s upholstery, seats, and dashboard. Your air conditioner will also have to work harder to reduce the temperature. A good tip is to park in the shade wherever possible or put sunshades over the windscreen to keep your car’s temperature cooler.
8. Recirculate air from within
Turning on your car’s AC recirculation mode will keep your car’s interior cool even when it’s hot outside. This mode is the best way to maximise an air conditioner’s operating power, since it’ll only draw the cooler air that’s inside your car’s cabin.
9. Regular professional maintenance is recommended
It’s recommended to get your car’s air conditioning system serviced regularly. This lets air conditioner cleaner and servicing experts identify any issues and fix them before they cause any damage. A professional will often use air conditioner cleaner spray, like the CRC Auto AC Pro Cleaner, or the 3m air conditioner foam cleaner.
Keeping on top of your car’s AC during the colder months will help keep your car’s air conditioning system in good shape so you can stay cool during the warmer months. Plus, if you make it a habit of following these maintenance tips regularly, your vehicle’s air conditioner is more likely to remain efficient and trouble-free all year round.