When Should You Absolutely Turn Off Your Car’s Air Conditioner

Summer is Coming: Tips for Keeping Your Car Air Conditioning Clean and Functional

As we approach the summer season, temperatures are on the rise.
This year, we can expect a scorching summer with the African anticyclone taking the lead.
This means that temperatures above 30°C will become a constant presence and will stay with us at least until the end of September.
If you are traveling by car, having air conditioning is essential to keep cool during summer journeys.

Maintaining Your Car’s Air Conditioning System

When you start using your car’s air conditioning system again, it’s crucial to be mindful of potential health risks.
The car’s air conditioner also requires proper maintenance.
If you notice a bad smell when you turn it on, it’s advisable to switch it off immediately and proceed with a sanitization process.

In a car’s air conditioning system, a humid environment is created, which provides a fertile ground for the proliferation of bacteria.
Neglecting the cleanliness of the system can lead to the formation of dirt and eventually mold on the heat exchanger, which will require dismantling to remove.
Prevention is key.

How to Clean Your Car’s Air Conditioning System

Cleaning and sanitizing your car’s air conditioning system should be done at least once a year.
If you detect a bad smell when you turn on the air, this is a sign that the system needs cleaning.
Meanwhile, switch it off immediately to avoid health issues.

Breathing air full of bacteria and mold can put you at risk of hypersensitivity pneumonia caused by an allergy.
This condition is triggered by fungi that have settled in the stagnant water of the air conditioning system, leading to an allergic reaction.
Common symptoms include fever, shortness of breath, and cough.
Sanitization is essential.

One of the simplest ways to clean the air conditioning system is by using ozone, a molecule composed of three oxygen atoms.
Ozone is one of the most powerful disinfectants, instantly killing bacteria, viruses, and even unpleasant odors.

There are spray cans available on the market with a long nozzle designed for system sanitization.
Simply spray the contents inside the air vents and let it act for a few minutes.
Then, open all the car doors, turn on the air conditioning to the maximum, and let it flow out of the front vents.
Run the air conditioning at full power for 5-10 minutes.

Afterward, you can switch it off.
You will notice that the bad odor has disappeared, and the system will emit a fresh and clean scent.
This process should be repeated at least once a year.
Also, remember to check the pollen filter, which should be replaced if clogged, as it can hinder air circulation and allow dirty air to pass through.

This cleaning service can also be carried out in specialized centers.
Many car washes offer services for sanitizing and cleaning the air conditioning system, as well as service areas.

For more information on car air conditioning recharge costs and procedures, you can click here.