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What Are the Pros and Cons of Air Conditioning in Your Car?

9 May 2023
Car Vents For Air Conditioning

During the middle of summer or on a hot day, a hot car can be a very uncomfortable place to be. We all know that feeling of opening the car door and feeling the intense heat pour out from inside! If you don’t have air con to cool you down, driving can be a horrible and sometimes dangerous experience. Although air conditioning is a blessing in the summer months, read on to discover some of the pros and cons of using your car’s air conditioning.

Pros of Air Conditioning in Your Car

A Comfortable Drive

The most obvious benefit of using the air con within your vehicle is the comfort that it brings. Using the vehicle’s air con means that you no longer have to struggle in the sometimes unbearable heat of being in a car during the hottest days of the year. Rather than having to open your windows and be uncomfortable with the wind, you can keep cool by using the air con.

Improved Safety

Using your air conditioning can also help with better safety on the road. You can avoid the drowsiness that comes with being too warm (just make sure to pull over and have a break if you feel drowsy). Having the air con on a cool setting will provide you with fresher, clean air that will keep you alert while driving.

Secondly, air con can reduce mist on the windscreen. If there is dampness or mist on your windscreen, then you need to demist it before you start driving. Using the air con is the most effective way of removing windscreen mist. 

Improves Air Quality

Air conditioning systems not only regulate temperature but also help filter out pollen, dust, and other pollutants. This leads to cleaner air inside your vehicle, which is particularly beneficial for drivers and passengers who suffer from allergies or respiratory issues. Air conditioning can help reduce humidity, which aids in preventing the growth of mould and bacteria.

Higher Resale Value

A car equipped with a well-maintained air conditioning system generally has a higher resale value than a similar model without this feature. Potential buyers often view air conditioning as an essential aspect of modern vehicles, making it a desirable selling point.

Cons of Air Conditioning

Worse Fuel Economy

The well-known downside to using air conditioning in your car is the effect that it has on fuel economy. It has to use fuel to function and can increase your fuel usage by as much as 20%. Running the air cooling system requires energy, which comes from your vehicle's engine. As a result, the engine works harder, leading to increased fuel usage. To minimise this impact, consider using the air con sparingly and only when necessary.

Bacteria Build-Up

If not regularly maintained, your air con can harbour harmful germs and bacteria. Breathing in a build-up of bad germs and bacteria can have a negative impact on your health. So, make sure to regularly maintain and clean your air conditioning to eliminate any build-ups of germs. You can easily get the filter replaced, this helps reduce the buildup of germs and bacteria.

Air Conditioning Maintenance Costs

Like any other component in your vehicle, the air conditioning system requires regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance. This will include recharging the gas, replacing filters, and general repair costs. While these maintenance tasks are essential for the vehicle’s air con system longevity, they can also add to your car's overall maintenance costs.

Potential for Leakage

Air conditioning gas is a crucial component of your car's system. However, leaks can sometimes occur, leading to a decline in the system's performance and potential harm to the environment. Regular inspections and maintenance by a professional garage, like Adderley Green Garage in Stoke-on-Trent, can help detect and fix leaks before they become a more significant issue.

Vehicle Air Conditioning Environmental Impact

The gas used in most car air conditioning systems can have a negative impact on the environment. Although newer vehicles use more environmentally friendly refrigerants, older models may still contain chemicals that contribute to ozone depletion and climate change. It's essential to ensure that your vehicle's air con system is regularly serviced and maintained to minimise the potential environmental impact.

While car air conditioning has several benefits, including enhanced comfort, improved air quality, and increased safety, it's important to consider the cons, such as increased fuel consumption, maintenance costs, and potential environmental impact. By using your vehicle’s air conditioning system responsibly and ensuring it's properly maintained, you can enjoy the advantages it offers without significantly impacting your wallet or the environment.

If you require professional assistance with your car's air conditioning system, look no further than Adderley Green Garage in Stoke-on-Trent. Our team of experienced technicians is dedicated to providing top-quality service and ensuring your vehicle remains comfortable and cool all year round. We can repair, maintain, clean and troubleshoot your system, amongst a whole range of other services such as MOT and servicing.

To find out more, contact us here. You can also contact us by visiting 345 Anchor Road, Adderley Green, Longton, Stoke-on-Trent, ST3 5BL or calling us on 01782 958146.

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© Adderley Green Garage 2024

crafted by ECLECTIC

© Adderley Green Garage 2024

made by ECLECTIC