Some people make the mistake of trying to prolong their vehicle’s air conditioner by not using it. A pair of shoes may last longer with limited use, but not an air conditioning system. You should run the system regularly to keep the compressor seals lubricated and prevent refrigerant leaks.
Your car’s air conditioner is crucial, not only for cooling the interior of the vehicle but also for mitigating humidity inside the cabin. The air conditioner is even useful in cold weather for keeping your windows from fogging.
Make sure that you know how to operate your air conditioner correctly. Don’t leave it on the recirculate setting. This causes carbon dioxide to accumulate inside the car at dangerous levels that may cause headaches. It can also cause drowsiness that can, in turn, cause vehicle accidents. The better option is to set the air conditioner to ventilation.
Here are a few tips for getting the most out of your air conditioning system:
- Have it serviced every two years before the start of summer. This will reduce the chance of your system cutting out in the thick of the heat. Make sure to refresh it with gas and lubricant.
- Run your air conditioning once a week for at least 10 minutes. This helps maintain gas pressure and keeps the compressor working properly. Turn your car air conditioner to the coolest setting and the highest fan speed.
- Run defrost mode for about five to 10 minutes to prevent mildew and remove excess moisture from the car’s cabin.
If your AC system needs some TLC, visit your local tire and service center for a full tune-up. When you care for your air conditioner, you will enjoy a more comfortable drive and experience fewer maintenance problems over the long term.
