A car air conditioner (AC) is one of the important components that demands proper care.
Without good air-conditioning, it may cause discomfort to you in the cabin, especially during the scorching hot weather.
Many reasons can lead to an ineffective air-conditioning system, such as irregular air-conditioning service. Other than that, some bad habits can sabotage your air conditioner’s performance.
What are these habits? Read on as we share more on these.
Rolling down the windows while the car’s AC is on
This is undeniably a common habit of many drivers while driving on the road. It is not a good idea to leave a window (or outside-facing door) open when the air conditioner is on.
Your car compressor will have to work harder to cool down or heat the cabin.
Turning off the car engine immediately after the car stops
Discard this habit if you want to maintain your air conditioner’s system. Ensure that you turn off your air conditioner before turning off the car engine.
Operating the AC while the engine is off can also harm your car’s battery over time.
Having a messy car cabin
A messy and dirty car cabin is not only an eyesore, but it also causes discomfort and affects the air conditioner.
How may dirt and litter affect your air-conditioning system? They will produce particles such as dust and grime that will go into the air filter and cause it to clog.
With a clogged cabin air filter, the lack of airflow can be felt at the dashboard vents. It will result in lacklustre defrosting and defogging performance and reduce air-conditioning and heating functionality. A clogged cabin air filter will further reduce air-conditioning functionality.
Therefore, we advise keeping your car in a clean condition. Always vacuum your car’s carpets, mats and seats regularly.
Using a wrong type of car freshener
Some types of fresheners are not suitable for your vehicle.
You should avoid buying a car freshener gel. This type of freshener will turn into gas and vapour.
When the gel is exposed to cold temperature in the cabin, it can block the filter in the air-conditioning system.
You may use a liquid freshener to ensure your air conditioner will not be easily affected and damaged.
Smoking while driving
Smoking does not only harm your health but also affects your air-conditioning system.
The smoke and dust from the cigarettes can penetrate the air filter. The airflow will cause the filter to become dirty quickly due to dust.
As a result, your air conditioner’s cooling system can become damaged and unable to perform at its optimum level.
Take proper care of your car’s AC
Undoubtedly, an air conditioner plays a vital role in providing comfort while driving.
Discarding the habits shared above can help your car’s air-conditioning system operate at its best. Besides, the cost of fixing a broken air-conditioning system may not be cheap. Therefore, again, take proper care of your air-conditioning system to avoid damage to the system.
Bjak is one of Malaysia’s biggest insurance comparison sites, offering 15 insurance brands. Get free car insurance quotes at Bjak.my and renew your insurance and roadtax in just 5 minutes.