Why click cans are not a good choice for cleaning your air conditioner!
The importance of annual cleaning of pollen filter boxes and evaporators: A must for healthy air in the car
In the field of air conditioning cleaning, various methods are often advertised, including the use of click cans. At first glance, these may seem practical, but a thorough investigation shows that they are far from an effective solution.
A click can for air conditioning cleaning is a self-emptying spray can that is emptied inside the car and is usually scented, which may trigger allergies. Thus, click cans suggest at first glance a simple and cheap way of cleaning or disinfecting air conditioning systems.
However, based on extensive, current field tests and scientific studies by the VDI (Association of German Engineers) and the ZDK (Central Association of the German Motor Trade) from the year 2024, it becomes clear why click cans do not represent a reliable method for cleaning or disinfecting air conditioning systems.
The limited effectiveness of clicker cans
According to a study by the VDI, click cans do not deliver on their promise regarding "air conditioning cleaning".Click cans, often marketed as a quick and easy solution, have proven to be ineffective in numerous tests. These tests were commissioned by the VDI and the measurements were carried out according to the standard for microbiological and chemical measurements. The examination of three different vehicles - a Jeep Grand Cherokee, an Opel Corsa, and a Citroen Berlingo - revealed that the use of click can cleaning sprays did not improve the microbiological air quality of the air conditioning system. On the contrary: in some cases, molds and bacteria were even mobilized and released into the air.
Negative impacts on air quality
Measurements after using the click cans showed an increased concentration of bacteria and mold in the supply air. In two vehicles, the number of bacteria increased, and in one vehicle, a slight mobilization of yeasts was detected. In addition, higher emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as terpenes, aldehydes, and ketones were measured. These chemical compounds can be harmful to health and significantly impair the air quality inside the vehicle.
Mechanical cleaning is essential
According to the VDI/ZDK 6032 guideline, simply flushing with chemical cleaning agents is not sufficient to ensure significant cleaning of the air conditioning system. An effective cleaning also requires a mechanical cleaning of the evaporator and the pollen filter environment. Only through such thorough cleaning can a sustainable improvement in air quality within the vehicle be achieved.
VDI/ZDK Field Test for the "Click Canister"
Ozone, click cans, foams, and ultrasonic nebulizers are often touted as solutions for cleaning automotive air conditioning systems, but from a physical standpoint, they cannot deliver corresponding results. To provide more clarity, the VDI and ZDK subjected the most commonly used product group, the so-called click cans, to a test. The result: No cleaning effect on the air conditioning system could be detected. Instead, the spray mist leads to more and more substances entering the vehicle's ventilation system, which can have unpredictable consequences. "Ineffective measures are not only of little hygienic help but also associated with high costs for labor, the customers' budget, and the environment. The current field test with click cans has clearly shown that this method is not a sustainable solution for ensuring clean air in the vehicle," explained Detlef Peter Grün at the press conference.
Effective cleaning with airco well®
Instead of relying on click cans that only deliver superficial results, it is advisable to use professional cleaning services. Air conditioning cleaning with airco well®, recommended by VDI/ZDK, is a proven method that thoroughly cleans your air conditioning system. Auto repair shops that offer air conditioning cleaning with airco well® have the necessary expertise and the right tools to clean your air conditioning system efficiently and sustainably. A professional cleaning not only ensures more efficient cooling but also healthier indoor air, free from dirt and pollutants. You can find a workshop near you where you can have your air conditioning cleaned with airco well® here.
Our conclusion: Avoid click baits
Using click cans for cleaning the air conditioning may seem practical at first glance, but it is not effective. The illusion of cleanliness is conveyed by advertising, but reality shows that click cans only work superficially and can even worsen the air quality in the vehicle. Instead, trust in a professional cleaning method, such as the one offered with airco well® to ensure a thorough and sustainable cleaning of your air conditioning system.
Invest in your health and the air quality in your vehicle.