Isn't summer the best season? The picnic baskets, late night barbecues, days spent lounging at the beach are indeed things to look forward to. But what about those sweltering road trips? Who hasn't experienced the sweat and discomfort when the temperature outside rises, and your car's air conditioning system just isn't up to the task? Well, fear not! This comprehensive guide is here to help you engulf yourself in a cool breeze every time you hit the road this summer.
So, what causes a car's air con system to underperform during the dog days? Can anything be done to maximize its efficiency? Is there a simple yet effective guide to ensure that your car remains a comfortable sanctuary against the heat? The answer is a comfortable 'yes.' We've gathered practical, easy-on-the-pocket tips that will transform your vehicle into a haven of coolness regardless of how high the mercury soars. Fasten your seatbelts and read on!
Understanding Your Car's Aircon
Firstly, to amplify the airflow in your car's air conditioning, you must understand how the system works. It's composed of several components, including the refrigerant, compressor, and condenser. All of them work together to cool the air inside your vehicle. The refrigerant for leaking, the compressor for optimal operation, and the condenser for blockages are all areas that need regular inspection.
Secondly, keep in mind, if the air con isn't maintained properly, it will have to work harder, slowing down the vehicle thereby consuming more fuel. So, maintenance isn't just about staying cool. It's a critical aspect of your car's overall performance and efficiency.
Lastly, a good understanding of your vehicle's aircon system can help you identify potential problems and address them before they escalate. Remember, prevention is always better and cheaper than cure!
Regular Servicing is Key
Staying on top of maintenance can largely prevent most common air conditioning issues. The experts believe you should get your aircon serviced every two years or so. Servicing ensures the system is in peak condition, topping up required gas, oil, and checking for leaks or other faults.
The majority of vehicles today come equipped with a cabin filter. This filter catches debris like dust, pollen that can clog the air conditioning system. Most car manufacturers recommend replacing the cabin filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles to ensure optimal performance.
Importantly, remember that servicing your aircon isn't a DIY task; it's best left to professionals. The process needs specialist knowledge and equipment to be carried out safely and efficiently.
The Art of Parking
Right parking practices can reduce the load on your aircon. Always strive to park in the shade or use a sunshade to lower the car’s internal temperature. Bright sunlight, especially in the afternoon during peak summer, can rapidly heat up your car while parked. As a result, the aircon has to work harder to cool the already heated interiors down when you switch it on.
In contrast, when you park in the shade, the internal temperature tends to be cooler, meaning the aircon has to work less to achieve the desired temperature. So, simple math: less work equals less fuel consumption or wear and tear, leading to better longevity for your aircon system.
The use of reflective sunshades helps to deter sunlight, thereby reducing the internal temperature. Using it one could work wonders when the shade isn't available.
Lowering Windows and Using Re-circulation
People often make the mistake of blasting the air conditioner as soon as they get into a hot car. Don't! Instead, lower the windows first. This simple step helps to let out the hot air trapped inside the car.
After taking this initial step, it's a good idea to use the re-circulation mode. By doing this, you place less pressure on the aircon system. In contrast, the fresh air mode will invite more hot air into the car, causing the air conditioner to work harder.
Conserving Energy and Maximizing Cooling
Keeping your car cool doesn't always mean frantically turning on the AC. Consider alternative methods to supplement your cooling effort. For instance, keep a packet of sunshade for your car windows. Using these can drastically reduce the amount of sunlight entering your car and, consequently, the temperature inside it.
During the cooler part of the day, usually morning and evening, consider turning off the aircon and letting the natural airflow do the work. Less dependency on the aircon means less stress on the system and ultimately improving its lifespan.
Miscellaneous Tips and Tricks
While most people crank up their fan speed to battle the hot temperatures, little do they know that this puts a strain on the system. Use lower fan speed and adjust the temperature control for better efficiency.
Try not to set your aircon to the lowest temperature setting right off the bat. Start at a higher temperature and gradually lower it until you feel comfortable.
Conclusion
Embarking on a summer road trip doesn't have to turn into a sweaty endeavour. There is plenty you can do to improve the performance of your car's air-con and increase your comfort. The key lies in understanding the system, investing in regular professional service, employing smart parking habits, effective utilization of the car's inbuilt functions, and employing energy-saving tactics. Keep these tips and tricks up your sleeve and bid adieu to uncomfortable journeys this season. Here's to embracing the summer and all its warmth, quite literally, in a calm, composed and comfortable manner! You're now all set to hit the road – cool, relaxed, and environmentally conscious.