Summer is here, and it feels like a sauna outside - the last thing you need is more hot air blasting from your car vents. Is your A/C ready to take on summer temperatures? It’s best to learn what you can do to help if your air conditioner can’t blow an icy chill to offset the sweltering heat.
Don’t rush to turn on “Max A/C”
No one wants to wait for their A/C to get cold before they start their dive. It can be tempting to press the “Max A/C” button right away, but this isn’t the most effective. Temperatures inside your car can reach up to 200° degrees; this makes the air inside your vehicle warmer than outside. When the air is hotter inside your car, “Max A/C” works harder and takes longer to cool your vehicle down. It’s best to turn the fan on and set it to “outside” mode to force some of the hot air out. After a few minutes, turn on the A/C and set it to “recirculate” the air inside. Then turn on “Max A/C”.
Your clogged cabin filter may be the dirty culprit.
The cabin air filter’s purpose is to prevent the A/C from blowing dust, pollen, bugs, and dirt inside your car. It filters the air to keep your cabin free of pollutants. If the filter is dirty, it will obstruct airflow from the A/C. If you know a significant amount of time has passed since you changed your air filter, have it replaced so your cold air won’t struggle to reach the cabin.
Recharge you’re A/C
If your Freon or refrigerant levels are low, the air from your A/C will not feel cold enough. If you suspect your refrigerant levels are low, you can check with an AC gauge and thermometer. Both of these items found at most auto stores. If it’s low, you can add more Freon. However, your trusted automotive specialist is always the best person to seek when checking your refrigerant levels and to give your A/C a recharge.
If after these tips you're still sweating because your A/C isn’t cold, there could be additional problems. Some A/C’s may need a replacement, have a leak, or the fan may not be working. Don’t suffer in the heat, if you’re experiencing A/C problems you can’t fix it’s best to bring your car to see an expert.