Does a car air conditioner need cleaning?
2 Answers
Car air conditioners do need cleaning. After prolonged use, the air intake, air ducts, fans, and evaporator surfaces of a car's air conditioning system can accumulate dust and dirt, leading to mold growth in the air ducts. The benefits of cleaning a car air conditioner include: 1. Enhancing cooling efficiency – after cleaning, the air conditioner is free of dust and dirt, allowing smooth airflow exchange and significantly improving cooling performance; 2. Eliminating odors and promoting health – cleaning not only reduces unpleasant odors from the car air conditioner but also purifies the air inside the vehicle; 3. Reducing power consumption – a cleaned air conditioner operates more efficiently in an improved environment, thereby lowering electricity usage.
After driving for eight years, I realized the importance of AC system cleaning. I used to think blasting the fan at maximum speed was enough, but the car always had a musty smell, especially noticeable when using the cold air in summer. Later I learned it was due to dust and bacteria buildup in the evaporator - when opened up, there was actual mold growth inside. Now I clean the ducts and filters every two years, and the airflow feels much fresher with faster cooling. This is especially important for families with elderly or children, as regular cleaning reduces allergens and improves air quality. Don't forget to thoroughly clean the blower fan blades where grime accumulates most - DIY spray cleaners have limited effect, so professional deep cleaning is recommended.
