Car Air Conditioning: Tips and Tricks for Optimal Use
Car air conditioning: Once a luxury, now a standard
These days, the sweltering heat inside a vehicle is thankfully no longer an issue. While air conditioning was considered a luxury just a few years ago, now almost all new cars come equipped with it. It provides pleasantly cool air in the summer and keeps humidity in check and the windows free of condensation in the winter. However, like many things in a vehicle, the air conditioning system should also be operated, maintained, and serviced correctly.
Refrigerator principle
The air conditioning works on a similar principle to a classic refrigerator. A compressor, driven in the car by a serpentine belt from the engine, compresses a special gas which then becomes hot. In the condenser, the gas is cooled by the airflow and turns into a liquid.
As soon as the pressure in the cooling circuit decreases and the refrigerant evaporates again, it cools down to about 2 degrees Celsius. During the transition to the gaseous state, the refrigerant extracts heat from the air, resulting in a cool breeze flowing from the ventilation openings into the vehicle interior.
Clear view
In addition to lowering the temperature, the air conditioning also reduces humidity: at low temperatures on the evaporator, the air's moisture condenses, and the remaining water is discharged outside. The dehumidified air not only makes staying in the car more bearable on hot and humid days, but also in autumn or winter, the low humidity inside the vehicle prevents the windows from fogging up.
Below 5 degrees Celsius, the air conditioning turns off
When the outside temperature is below 5 degrees Celsius, the air conditioning turns off automatically. The compressor, responsible for the cooling performance, could otherwise freeze the evaporator. At temperatures below 5 degrees Celsius, one should regularly clean the windshield: A dirty windshield more easily attracts moist air particles and thus fogs up faster than a clean one.
To remove moisture from the air, for example, one can place a cotton pouch filled with cat litter or a special granulate on the dashboard.
Tips for operating the air conditioner
Do not set the air conditioning too cold and do not direct the airflow straight at your head or neck, as you could easily catch a cold. The ideal temperature is between 22 and 25 degrees Celsius.
In case of high heat: First open the windows
If you need to get into a car on a hot summer day, it's best to open all the doors and windows before driving off to let the accumulated hot air escape. To cool down the interior as quickly as possible, you should switch to recirculation mode for a short time at maximum cooling power.
Turn on regularly
An air conditioner should also be turned on in winter when temperatures are above 5 degrees Celsius. If it is used regularly, its function is ensured, which significantly increases its lifespan. If the air conditioner is off for too long, moving parts and seals can become porous, the risk of losing refrigerant increases, and the oil in the compressor can decompose. Costly repairs and shorter maintenance intervals are the consequences. However, short-term operation of less than 10 minutes should be avoided.
Reduce the risk of accidents
Turning on the air conditioning makes sense not only for comfort reasons but also for health considerations: An interior temperature of just 27 degrees Celsius can increase heart rate and body temperature, and also reduce concentration and reaction capability. According to studies, a temperature increase from 25 to 35 degrees Celsius raises the risk of accidents by about 20 percent.
Prevent bacteria, mold, and odor formation
Turn off the air conditioning's cooling function shortly before the end of the trip, but not the fan. This prevents residual moisture in the system, which can lead to bacterial and fungal growth as well as unpleasant odors.
Invisible germs, fungi, and bacteria
The interior of the vehicle starts to smell musty when dust or pollen on the damp environment of the evaporator surface form bacterial and mold cultures.
People with a weak immune system are particularly at risk here, as allergic reactions can range from chronic perennial rhinitis to bronchial asthma.
Regular climate service with airco well®
Therefore, the airco well® climate service should be carried out regularly, during which the evaporator and the pollen filter environment are thoroughly cleaned. The Association of German Engineers (VDI) also recommends regular cleaning in its guideline 6032. The cleaning process described there should be applied at least every two years. airco well® follows this procedure and achieves the highest standards with its hygienic cleaning, as proven by evidence.
Everything is cleaned! The air conditioning too?
Have you already cleaned everything at home and in the office and are now taking care of cleaning your vehicle?
Don't forget about your air conditioning. Find a certified service center near you.