Top car air conditioning system maintenance tips

Summer in Missouri can be intense, making a well-functioning air conditioning system essential for comfortable drives. Our experts at Clement Pre-Owned can help ensure your car's A/C is in top condition during scorching days on the road. Here are tips to maintain peak AC performance throughout the summer.

It's crucial to regularly check your car's A/C components, especially post-winter, to prevent overall system malfunction. Some steps you can take on your own, but other procedures require the help of qualified servicemen to extend the system's lifespan.

1. Clean the A/C system from dirt and debris. Cleaning residue from the condenser allows for optimal airflow and improved efficiency during the summer heat.
2. Check the filter: car air conditioners come with an air filter for catching dirt, dust, and pollen, maintaining clean cabin air. Over time, this filter can become clogged, impacting cooling efficiency. Regular replacement, especially if excessively clogged, is important to prevent bacterial growth.
3. Flush the radiator every few years and ensure it remains free of debris. Dirty radiators can impede airflow and reduce cooling efficiency, especially during hot summer days.
4. Check the coolant levels regularly to ensure your A/C system operates at the right temperature and prevents engine overheating, crucial especially in Missouri's summer heat.
5. Inspect the fan belts to ensure they function correctly and are in good condition. These belts power essential components such as the alternator, water pump, and steering pump.
6. Look for leaks: regularly check for small leaks in the air conditioning system that could allow refrigerants to escape. Promptly repair any leaks to maintain efficient cooling performance during Missouri's summer months.
7. Recharge your air conditioning system every two years to maintain optimal performance by refilling the entire cooling system with gas and lubricant.

Read more about car servicing and maintenance. 

Small adjustments to your daily driving habits can significantly improve your AC's cooling efficiency. Here are some simple tips for maximizing your air conditioner's cooling performance:

• Park in the shade. Whenever feasible, park your car in a shaded spot to avoid direct sunlight, as it can heat up the interior and strain your air conditioning system.
• Ventilate before cooling. Roll down all windows briefly before starting your A/C to let out the hot air trapped inside the vehicle. This quick step helps your AC cool the cabin more efficiently.
• Start slow. Begin running your aircon at the lowest fan speed setting and gradually increase it as needed. This approach helps the system act more effectively without overworking the compressor.
• Use recirculation mode. This mode helps to mix the air flows inside the cabin, reducing the time it takes to reach your desired temperature.
• Turn off the A/C before the engine. Switch off the air conditioner a few moments before turning off the engine. This allows the aircon's components to stabilize and prevents any sudden strain on the system when starting the engine next time.
• Run on defrost mode. Missouri's humid climate can put extra strain on your A/C system. Run your A/C for 10 minutes weekly on defrost mode, at the coolest setting and maximum fan speed to maintain gas pressure, keep the compressor healthy, remove moisture, and prevent mildew. Even in winter, running the A/C helps dehumidify and defog your windshield. 
• Regularly activate your car's air conditioning. Turn on the A/C for around 10-15 minutes each day. If you don't use your car daily during hot weather, ensure to turn it on at least once a week. This practice helps keep the vents functioning and maintains proper refrigerant gas pressure.
• Avoid pre-cooling. Although it may seem tempting to begin your journey with a pleasantly cool cabin, it's best to avoid pre-cooling. Start your car's A/C only after you've ignited the engine. This allows the AC cooling system to operate more efficiently, saving fuel in the process.
• Schedule a regular AC service: regular professional inspections and servicing for your car are crucial to ensure all the compartments, including the air conditioning system, operate at their best performance. As demand rises in summer, schedule vehicle maintenance earlier, and ensure timely and cost-effective care for your car.

If your AC behaves oddly, do not postpone your visit to a service station. Clement Pre-Owned in Missouri provides thorough car maintenance, including A/C inspections and servicing, cleaning condenser coils and blower fans, clearing blockages, and restoring electrical components for improved aircon performance. 

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