The hot summer weather is here and with it is a reminder about how important your car’s air conditioning system is for keeping you comfortable on the road. Here’s 6 tips for keeping your air conditioning running at maximum performance.
You should run your air conditioning weekly for 10 minutes on defrost mode on the coolest setting and at the maximum fan speed. This helps maintain gas pressure, keeps your compressor running well, cleans out moisture and prevents mildew.
This includes running your air conditioning in the winter, which helps remove humidity and works well to defog the windshield.
2. Clean or change the air filter
Dirty cabin air filters prevent proper airflow. Check your filter often and clean or replace it.
3. Don’t pre-cool your car
Your car’s air conditioning operates at maximum efficiency when you’re driving. Don’t pre-cool your car. On extra hot days, put the fan on high once you start driving and open only the backseat windows for 10 to 20 seconds to force out the hot air.
4. Set A/C to the coldest setting
Your car’s air conditioning is most efficient when set to the lowest temperature and adjusting the fan for comfort. Most air conditioning systems cool the air to 3-4 C. A higher temperature forces the system to re-heat the air, burning more fuel.
5. Keep your car clean
Dirt and bacteria can negatively impact your car’s air conditioning system. Keep dirt and debris at bay by cleaning, dusting and vacuuming regularly.
6. Don’t use A/C on recirculate if you have back seat passengers
The recirculation mode pulls air from the front of the vehicle and re-cools it. It works well for passengers in the front of your vehicle, but can leave air stale and hot in the back.