The air conditioner in the car should be used even in winter. in this article we will tell you the reasons. Photo: blueboeing / shutterstock.Com
Many drivers appreciate air conditioning in the summer, but even in winter it should be used from time to time. in this article we explain the reasons.
Using the air conditioner in winter? What sounds like a contradiction not only prevents damage to the air conditioning system, but offers several advantages at the same time. For the following reasons, you should activate your air conditioning in the car even in the cold season from time to time:
#01 – preventing damage to the air conditioning system
The construction of an air conditioning system is more complex than many people think. It consists of a closed circuit in which coolant alternately changes aggregate state from liquid to gas by changing pressure. The cooling is produced by sublimation (liquid to gas). If an air conditioner is not used throughout the cold seasons, the compressor, hoses and seals are not lubricated and dry out. Over the years, parts of the air conditioning system can become brittle and eventually leak. The consequence is that the air conditioning system fails and usually (depending on the defective component) needs expensive repairs.
ÜBy the way: how an air conditioner is built, you can see very well in this video.
#02 – avoiding fungal and bacterial infestation
Moisture and heat provide the ideal breeding ground for bacteria and fungi. Especially in the area of the evaporator there are good conditions for this due to the accumulation of condensation water. If the air conditioning system is not used regularly, this promotes the formation of unhealthy bacteria and fungi, which also enter the interior of the car via the ventilation system.
#03 – avoid unpleasant odors
If mold forms in the air-conditioning system, unpleasant odors can also develop. After long breaks, the smell spreads throughout the car as soon as the air conditioning is activated again. Regular use of the air conditioner even during the colder seasons is the easiest way to prevent bad odors. If there is already a strong unpleasant odor, it is possible that fungus has already formed. the odors disappear after a long period of use of the air conditioner, but are usually present again in a short time. In this case, the air conditioner should be cleaned or at least disinfected.
#04 – the air conditioner dehumidifies the car (fogged windows)
Fogged windows are a problem for many drivers in the cool seasons. Activating the air conditioner can help you see through foggy windows. It extracts moisture from the air without the air having to be particularly warm to do so. This makes sense especially for short distances, if you do not necessarily want to heat up the whole car.
Here is what you should pay attention to when using the air conditioner in winter
So there are several reasons to use the air conditioner every now and then, even in winter. For correct use in winter, however, you should pay attention to the following points:
– do not switch on below 3 to 4 degrees – in case of frost, an air conditioner can be damaged during operation. Most air conditioners have temperature sensors built in for this reason and usually cannot be activated at all when the temperature is cold enough.
– activate at least once a month – to prevent damage, you should run the air conditioner at least once a month for about 10 minutes, even in the cold seasons.
– after switching off, you should leave the fan running for a few minutes – condensed water accumulates on the evaporator, which flushes odors out of the system, but also increases the humidity inside after the trip. If you leave the fan running for a short time after turning off the air conditioner, the moisture will be blown out of the system and the risk of fungus will be minimized.
– avoid clogged rain drains – in addition, make sure that no leaves or excessive dirt accumulate in the rain drains. Such dirt can collect moisture, which also spreads inside, causing mold and fogged windows.