Is your car making you sick? Car air conditioning problems and how to fix it

A woman turning on her air conditioning

Your car air conditioning is really useful during the hot summer months, even in the UK. On the rare occasion, we get a heatwave like this month, it’s important to have your system working properly. However, if you don’t take regular care of your car’s air conditioning it could be detrimental to your health.

If your system isn’t properly maintained it can contribute to adverse health effects. Not only that, but it could also cost you a lot of money in repairs. The best way to protect your bank balance and health is by getting regular maintenance on your air conditioning unit. But don’t worry, it will actually save you in the long run.

Bacteria can build up

If you don’t check on your car air conditioning regularly, the bacteria can build. This is due to dust and dirt within your car and the air outside getting into the system. Over time, this can mix with the moisture in the system and cause bacteria and fungi. For people with allergies or asthma, it may affect them sooner rather than later. After a while, this can also produce strange smells coming from your car. The more you use your air conditioning in this state, the more likely you are to breathe in the bacteria and can be subject to infections or allergies.

How to fix the problem

If you’ve already noticed an unpleasant smell coming from the system, you may be in need of a car air conditioning service. During the service, your air conditioning specialist will check the system thoroughly, provide you with a re-gas and provide it with an anti-bacterial cleanser. This will remove any bacteria and ensure the air that blows into your car keeps you healthy.

Some garages will provide a simple re-gas and cleanse at request if you don’t feel you need a service. However, most manufacturer’s will recommend you get a car air conditioning service at least once every 2 years to prevent repairs.

How to keep your car air conditioning healthy

In addition to getting regular maintenance on your car’s air conditioning system to prevent or remove the build-up of bacteria, there are a few steps you can take to prevent bacteria build up.

  • Get a regular recharge

It’s recommended to get an air conditioning recharge once every 2 years. If you do this, you won’t run out of gas in the system keeping it working. In addition to this, the garage who inspects your system can spot any damage or build up and recommend a clean when it’s needed.

  • Replace your air filters

It’s not just the internal system that can be infected, but the vents and air filters that are visible to the eye could also be dirty. Cleaning them regularly and replacing when required can help to keep your system clean.

  • Run the system regularly

If you run your car air conditioning system regularly, even in the cooler months you can continuously test your system. This means, any abnormalities will be noticed sooner rather than later and can prevent a mass build-up of bacteria.

For more information about your car air conditioning and how you can stay healthy, get in touch today. Book your vehicle in for an air conditioning service today using our quick and easy online booking tool!