Is it necessary to clean the car air conditioner?
2 Answers
It is necessary to clean the car air conditioner. Generally, the car air conditioner should be cleaned once a year. If the driving environment is harsh, this interval should be shortened. When the car air conditioner is turned on for cooling or heating, it operates by repeatedly circulating the air inside the car. Components of the car's interior air circulation system, such as the evaporator, ventilation ducts, and blower, work in dark and humid conditions for long periods, accumulating dirt and breeding large amounts of harmful microorganisms like pathogenic bacteria, mites, and mold. Different types of air conditioning systems have different layouts. Currently, most cars use an integrated heating and cooling air conditioning system, where the evaporator, heater radiator, centrifugal blower, and control mechanism are assembled together, forming the air conditioning unit.
As an ordinary car owner, I highly recommend regular cleaning of the car's air conditioning system. Dust, mold, and bacteria tend to accumulate inside the AC system, especially during humid seasons, which can easily lead to unpleasant odors. If left uncleaned, musty or foul smells may occur when using the AC, affecting in-cabin air quality. Prolonged exposure could potentially cause allergies or respiratory discomfort. Since having children, I pay extra attention to this issue to prevent them from coughing or feeling unwell. The cleaning process includes checking the filter and evaporator, costing around 100 RMB – it's affordable and straightforward when done at a reputable shop, taking only about half an hour. Performing this maintenance annually before summer or during routine servicing not only improves cooling efficiency but also enhances driving comfort and prevents more serious issues. Health comes first, making this small investment well worth it.
