Regular maintenance of the car air conditioning system is more important than many think – not only for cold air in summer but also for health, safety, and costs. We explain what you can do yourself and when you should visit a professional workshop.
5 Reasons for Regular Air Conditioning Maintenance
1. Cooling Performance is Maintained
On average, 5-10% of refrigerant is lost per year – even without a defect.
2. Avoid Expensive Damage
The refrigerant also carries oil to lubricate the compressor. If there is not enough refrigerant in the air conditioning system, lubrication is poor, which can lead to compressor damage. If metal shavings enter the refrigerant circuit due to a faulty compressor, repair costs increase significantly.
Over time, moisture accumulates in the system. Possible consequences include:
- Corrosion
- Freezing
- Damage to the expansion valve
3. Health & Odor
Disinfecting the air conditioning system and changing the pollen filter should be done annually, especially if you have allergy problems, possibly more often. If you notice a musty smell when turning on the ventilation, it’s high time to take action!
Condensation forms on the evaporator, which, combined with warm air, creates a perfect breeding ground for:
- Bacteria
- Fungi
- Mold
A clogged pollen filter is not only a breeding ground for bacteria, fungi, and mold but also affects the system’s performance:
- Reduced airflow
- Decreased cooling performance
- Increased strain on the blower
4. Safety Through Clear Visibility
The air conditioning system, even if not yet relevant for TÜV inspection, is one of the passive safety features of a modern car. It ensures clear visibility in winter and helps prevent early fatigue in summer.
5. Better Fuel Efficiency
A poorly maintained system requires more power, which means more load on the engine and increased fuel consumption or reduced range in electric vehicles.
What You Can Do Yourself
You can change the pollen filter and disinfect the air conditioning system yourself. The filter is usually inexpensive and can be replaced with a few simple steps. To disinfect the air conditioning, get a suitable product from an auto accessories store and apply it. So-called foggers are placed inside the vehicle with the blower running and do the job almost automatically. In severe cases, it may be necessary to disinfect the evaporator with a disinfecting cleaning foam.
When to Visit a Professional Workshop?
At the latest every two years, you should visit a professional workshop to have your air conditioning system serviced. Using a special air conditioning service device, refrigerant, oil, and condensation water are extracted, the system inside the vehicle is flushed, checked for leaks, and refilled with the exact amount. This not only ensures reliable operation but also protects expensive components like the compressor from premature failure.