DRIVERS have been urged to make changes to their car’s air con that will save them thousands of pounds.
Experts have warned that not using your motor’s air con this winter could see drivers dealing with costly repairs or even fines of up to £1,000.
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Air conditioning isn’t just for cooling off in those hot summer months.
Many drivers may think switching off their air con in the winter will help save money – but the opposite is true.
It also works as a dehumidifier, preventing mould, odours, and health risks but only if it is used regularly.
If you don’t use it for a period of time it can lead to moisture build up, bacteria thriving and repairs can become costly.
And a misted windscreen can prove more than just a nuisance – it could land you with a £1,000 fine and three points on your license.
Using your air con is the quickest way to clear it and it will also regulate your heating and cooling to keep the motor’s cabin comfortable.
Car maintenance experts at Fixter have shared six expert tips on how to properly use your air con system during the colder months as well as maintenance tips.
Run your AC regularly
Their first tip is to run your air con regularly, even on cooler settings, a small habit that can save you from those costly long-term repairs.
Experts at Fixter recommend to use your air-con for 10 to 15 minutes once a week and occasionally on a colder setting.
This will keep seals lubricated, prevents mould growth and stops the compressor from seizing.
Demist your windscreen
They also advise that you demist your windscreen fast to stay legal and avoid that hefty £1,000 fine.
They say that the quickest and safest way to clear fog or frost is by combining warm air with your air con.
This will reduce humidity while the heat will speed up defogging.
You should direct airflow at the glass and avoid using your recirculation mode.
Don’t skip your winter service
Even if you’re not blasting cold air, your air con is still working hard behind the scenes, experts at Fixter say.
A regular servicing will keep the air con system efficient and will prevent bacteria building up.
It will also reduce the risk of breakdowns when you need it most, they added.
Check your cabin filter and airflow
If your filters are clogged, your air con is going to have to do more work to demist your windscreen.
Fixter says a clogged pollen or cabin filter will restrict airflow, make your demisting slower and get your air con working harder.
And if your vents feel weak, it could also men your refrigerant is low – both are quick fixes if caught early but are expensive if ignored.
Don’t ignore unpleasant smells
If there are some unpleasant smells in your cabin, it may be a sign of a bigger problem.
Musty odours when you turn on your air con are usually caused by mould or bacteria, Fixter says.
This will affect cabin air quality as well as your health and can be fixed with a clean or filter replacement.
Clear your vents before driving
Fixter says that clearing your vents before driving is also crucial.
Snow or ice blocking your cars external vents can stop your air con from circulating air properly, forcing the fan to overwork.
You should always brush them clear before setting off.
More on motors
Whether it’s a weird noise or a check engine light, every driver knows the dreaded feeling of another costly trip to the mechanic.
Thankfully, a new middle aisle buy from Lidl can help to save you money by ensuring one part of your car is always in perfect shape.
What should be in your winter car kit?
By Jacob Jaffa, Motors Reporter
Here’s what should be included in your winter car kit, according to the RAC:
- Ice scraper
- Torch
- Paper maps
- Phone charger
- Warm clothes/blankets
- High-vis clothing
- Jump cables
- Jerry can
- Warning triangles
- Food and drink
- A shovel
- Sunglasses
A major car brand recently recalled another 10,000 motors in the UK over a serious safety flaw.
Another brand recalled five models in UK over a defect that increases risk of crash.
And a huge UK car dealership has announced its sudden closure.
Plus a small parking mistake that could land drivers a hefty fine of up to £1,000.
