15 Ways to Increase the Lifespan of a Car Aircon

15 Ways to Increase the Lifespan of a Car Aircon. Long-term car owners or those that own old cars know the struggles of maintaining a well-functioning car aircon. It takes lots of time and money if you do not know how to maintain it properly. Here are 15 ways to increase the lifespan of a car aircon:

1. Cleaning Properly

Proper cleaning is important if you plan to sell your car or give it to another owner. It shows that the previous owner took good care of their property, reflecting positively on them. It also frees up more money for you with a better sale price. Many people try to cut corners here, and that is a mistake.

Clean the outside of your car’s aircon unit at least once every two weeks. This keeps bugs, dirt, and other small objects from getting jammed in the fan or heater.

2. Replacing the Filter

This is probably one of the most important things you can do to maintain your car’s aircon. Not only does it keep the air clean, but it also prevents the system from overworking and eventually breaking down. A dirty filter will cause the AC to work harder than necessary, leading to early failure.

Replace your car’s aircon filter every six months. This will prolong the life of your car’s AC system and save you money in the long run.

3. Investing in a Portable Car Aircon Unit

A portable unit is beneficial because it allows you to clean out parts of your car that are difficult to reach. It is also a great idea to keep in your car for emergencies. For example, it helps when you are driving in hot weather, and the AC in your car breaks down.

4. Regular Maintenance

Like anything else, if you want your car aircon to last longer, you need to give it some regular TLC. This means taking it in for a check-up now and then to ensure all the parts are working properly. Regular maintenance is especially important if you live in a hot country, keeping your system from overheating.

To prevent any malfunctions from happening, preventive maintenance is key. For example, regularly check and change the condensation and water drainage hoses and clean out any dust or dirt that may be trapped inside them.

5. Checking the Gas Levels

If you do not have enough gas in your car, the aircon will not work properly. Ensure that you keep an eye on your gas levels and refill when needed. It is also important not to let them get too high because this can damage the system.

6. Using the Right Temperature

Do not set your aircon too cold or too hot, as this will reduce its lifespan. Usually, an aircon should be set at around 24 degrees Celsius. This is good for keeping you and your passengers comfortable.

6. Replacing the Compressor

The compressor is one of the most important parts of your aircon. If it goes bad, the whole system will have to be replaced, which can be a costly endeavor. So it is best to keep an eye on the compressor and replace it when necessary.

7. Using a Dehumidifier

A dehumidifier is important for keeping your AC system in good condition. It prevents the air inside of it from getting too dry, protecting against mold buildup. This can be especially problematic if you live in a hot country with high humidity levels.

Dehumidifiers are fairly inexpensive, so there is no reason not to use one. Plus, they can help you save money on your AC bill in the long run due to lower energy consumption.

8. Keeping Out Bugs and Other Things

This may seem like an obvious pro tip, but it is very important. It is best to keep insects, dirt, leaves, etc., from your aircon unit. If you live in a dusty area, it is also a good idea to clean out the inside of your car’s AC regularly.

9. Replacing the Hoses

The hoses are another important part of your AC system. They should be replaced every few years or when they start to show signs of wear and tear. A bad hose can cause the AC not to work properly or even break down completely.

10. Checking for Leaks

If there are any leaks in your aircon system, it will not function correctly. This can result in poor cooling performance and early system failure. For leaks, use a spray bottle filled with water to see where the leak is coming from. Don’t hesitate to get it fixed if you find one, usually by a professional mechanic.

11. Using the Right Fluids

Make sure that you use the right fluids to maintain your aircon system, as this will make it last longer. For example, using certain windshield wiper fluid can damage your AC. Also, keep in mind that ethylene glycol is not recommended for car ac systems.

Check your car’s owner manual for the best oil choice that works with your AC unit. Keep in mind that some oils are made specifically for aircon use and do not just any oil will do. Also, take note of your professionals’ recommendations regarding which brands are best for your system.

12. Checking the Refrigerant Levels

If the refrigerant levels are too low, your AC will not function correctly. To check this, use a pressure gauge. Make sure that the levels are within the manufacturer’s specifications. If they are not, you will need to add more refrigerant to your system. The refrigeration gas is available at any professional mechanic or hardware store.

13. Getting an AC Checkup

It is always good to schedule an appointment with your professionals every few years. This ensures that all parts are working correctly and there are no leaks in the system. It only takes a few minutes, but it could prevent other problems from happening down the line, especially for older cars.

14. Avoiding Direct Sunlight

If possible, avoid parking your car under direct sunlight or covering it when not being used. This may seem counterintuitive, but it keeps the AC from working too hard. Direct sunlight causes damage to the components inside of the AC unit because of increased temperatures and other factors caused by UV rays.

15. Give your Air Conditioner a Rest

It is also a good idea to turn off your system when you are not in the car for extended periods. Doing this will help protect the unit from overuse and problems caused by extensive cooling. It only takes ten minutes or less to cool down after leaving your auto on. But it could save you lots of money down the line.

Conclusion

These 15 ways to increase the lifespan of a car aircon can boost the lifespan of your air conditioner. Taking care of your AC will make things easier for professionals if they ever have to work on it. This way, your AC will last for years to come.