As we eagerly anticipate the arrival of a (hopefully) sun-filled and warm summer, our holiday plans are already in motion, and we are gradually gearing up our cars for extensive and potentially exhausting journeys. We’ve ensured the availability of suitable tires, equipped ourselves with a first aid kit, and completed the essential oil and filter change. However, as we step into our warm cars, ready to embark on our adventures, we encounter a concerning issue: the air conditioning fails to function. Driving in the heat without a working air conditioning system poses potential dangers. How can we prevent air conditioning problems, and what measures can we take to ensure its flawless operation?
The construction of the air conditioning system, or more accurately, the interior cooling system, is relatively straightforward. It comprises a compressor, condenser, dryer, expansion valve, and evaporator with a fan. The compressor drives the movement of the air conditioning refrigerant throughout the system in the process. The condenser, also known as a cooler, serves to lower the temperature of the refrigerant while condensing it. The refrigerant undergoes a “cleaning” process in the dryer, and in the valve, subjected to significant pressure, it experiences rapid cooling. Ultimately, the evaporator with a fan takes on the responsibility of regulating the temperature within the car cabin.
Fungi can live in the air conditioning…
Fungi can thrive in the air conditioning system, posing significant health risks. Inhaling air from a mold-infested air conditioner may lead to allergies and respiratory ailments, including pneumonia. So, how can we effectively eliminate mold from the air conditioning, and how often should we perform this task?
It is advisable to rid the air conditioning of fungi at least once a year, preferably in the spring. Waiting for an unpleasant odor may indicate system damage, necessitating costly disassembly and thorough cleaning of the evaporator or, in extreme cases, its replacement. For individuals with allergies, a bi-annual air conditioning check is recommended to mitigate potential allergic triggers. Notably, an unpleasant odor, diminished cooling performance, and a malfunctioning system serve as clear indicators that it is time to clean and disinfect the car’s air conditioning.
There are two approaches to cleaning air conditioning: performing it independently or seeking professional services from a specialized workshop. Let’s delve into the first method. Despite initial impressions, removing mold from air conditioning on your own is not a complex process, requiring only some time and appropriate preparations.
How to declutter air conditioning?
Make sure to inspect the condition of your cabin filter prior to proceeding with the following steps. The removal of mold may not yield significant results if the filter is either damaged or obstructed.
The system decluttering can be carried out either from the engine side or within the cabin. The latter method is typically chosen by less proficient mechanics.
To implement the first approach, a specialized fungicide solution is introduced for approximately one to two minutes through the air intake point that draws in air from the car interior. Caution is advised to prevent the preparation from coming into contact with electrical and electronic components.
The second method, although more challenging, is considerably more effective. It involves introducing an air conditioning antifungal agent into the air supply ducts located in the engine compartment, particularly in close proximity to the evaporator, which is highly susceptible to fungal growth. This process demands precision and a deliberate pace to ensure that the preparation effectively reaches and eradicates the fungal areas.
Other methods of removing mold from air conditioning
There are alternative, albeit more expensive, approaches to eliminating mold from air conditioning units. The initial method involves chemically eradicating fungi using a specialized device that releases substances targeting and destroying fungi and unpleasant odors. The second technique employs an ozone cleaning device for the widely used “air conditioning.”
Chemical Treatment for Fungi
To execute the chemical cleaning of a car’s air conditioning, place the fumigation removal device in the vehicle, activate the air conditioning (ensuring it is set to a closed circuit), and keep the car sealed for approximately fifteen minutes. Afterward, thoroughly ventilate the car and verify the cleanliness of the air conditioning. The process involves supplying steam with appropriate agents to the air conditioning system through the condenser pipe, aimed at purifying the installation from microbial and fungal habitats. Following chemical fumigation, run the air conditioning for a few minutes to expel any remaining substances.
Ozonation of Air Conditioning
A significant advantage of air conditioning ozonation is the absence of any chemicals. An ozone antifungal cleaner essentially functions as an ozone generator—a potent oxidizing agent that eliminates bacteria, dust, and unpleasant odors. Since it comprises only a negatively saturated oxygen molecule, its lifespan is short, dissipating quickly from the interior of the installation. The duration and efficacy of the ozonation process depend largely on the device’s efficiency and the intensity of dirt.
Ultrasonic Method
This method is most effective when employed in two phases. First, eliminate any germs and bacteria using fungicides and disinfectants, and then utilize odor removers. The ultrasonic method necessitates the use of specific agents whose physical and chemical properties are compatible with ultrasonic spraying to ensure proper distribution. Through ultrasounds with an average frequency of 1.7 Hz, this method breaks the liquid into a fine mist, penetrating every nook and cranny.
Perhaps a visit to an auto repair shop?
For individuals lacking the time and necessary expertise, entrusting their car to a mechanic is a viable option. Service costs can vary, ranging from 25 USD to as much as 75 USD. Naturally, the service should conduct a thorough examination of the system, assess the refrigerant levels (and potentially top them up), and eliminate any fungi present in the air conditioning. It’s important to note that this process will take approximately 2 hours, during which we won’t have access to our car.
Is it a worthwhile investment? We highly recommend this alternative for individuals with limited automotive skills. Those who value their time will also find it advantageous—you can drop off the car when it’s not in use, freeing up time for other activities. Additionally, it’s worth considering that the necessary preparations can be somewhat pricey, even though their effects will be long-lasting.
What else should we remember?
Owning a car equipped with air conditioning entails certain responsibilities. Firstly, it is crucial to monitor the system’s condition, as it may experience leaks, leading to a loss of refrigerant. To check for leaks in the air conditioning system, a practical method involves applying soapy water to the pipes and connections and observing the formation of foam. While this approach is effective for identifying larger leaks, smaller ones are best identified by a professional workshop.
A common query revolves around determining the appropriate amount of air conditioning refrigerant to add to the car. The specific answer to this question can be found in the car’s manual. However, if the air conditioning system is both intact and operational, it is advisable to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and maintain the recommended refrigerant level.
Lastly, it’s crucial to regularly replace the cabin filter. The lifespan of the filter varies depending on the materials used, ranging from several to several thousand kilometers. A properly functioning filter is essential for the optimal operation of the air conditioning system.
