Does a car air conditioner need cleaning?
4 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.
Last week, I took my father-in-law's car for an air conditioning cleaning. The elderly man always complained about feeling dizzy when the AC was on. When we opened up the AC filter, it was completely clogged with willow catkins and dust—no wonder the air blowing out had an earthy smell. The technician mentioned that mold on the evaporator surface can produce odors, and long-term neglect can even reduce cooling efficiency. After the cleaning, the improvement was obvious—not only did the airflow increase, but fuel consumption also dropped slightly. Personally, I recommend that cars over three years old should get this service, especially those frequently driven in dusty areas. After cleaning, the cabin air feels much fresher.
I'm someone who values health, and car air conditioning really needs regular cleaning. Last year, a test revealed the presence of Legionella bacteria in the AC system, which can cause respiratory illnesses. The evaporator box in the AC is particularly prone to becoming a breeding ground for bacteria due to its damp and dark environment. The best times for cleaning are during the seasonal transitions between summer and winter, using professional equipment to spray disinfectant deep into the air ducts. After cleaning, I noticeably stopped sneezing while driving, which is especially beneficial for people with rhinitis. Now, I always add AC cleaning to my regular maintenance—it's much more cost-effective than medication or doctor visits.
