Get Your Car’s A/C System Ready for Summer

Dashboard of car's air conditioning systemThe summer temperatures seem to be getting hotter each year, making car trips on a hot summer day unbearable without a fully functioning air conditioning or “climate control” system. That’s why you should make sure your car’s A/C system is working properly, especially if you are planning on spending time in your car, either travelling to and from work or on family road trips. Remember, that it’s important to avoid taking your car in for its air conditioning system service at the last minute since getting the right parts could take days!

Is Your Vehicle’s A/C Functioning Properly?

Determining that your vehicle’s air conditioning is not working properly is easy. However, A/C repair can be both complicated and dangerous. Therefore, we suggest that you leave that part to experienced professionals like the A/C technicians at Supertech Auto Repair North Vancouver.

Is Your A/C Making Strange Noises?

When you turn on your car’s air conditioning system, it should only be making a slight humming noise. If you notice that your A/C is making loud noises, or even banging, then you need to visit Supertech Auto Repair for a diagnosis and repairs.

Odours From Your A/C System

The air generated by your air conditioning system doesn’t smell the same as the air outside your car but it shouldn’t smell musty or unpleasant. Unpleasant smells are an indication of dust or mildew inside your car’s A/C system. Such an issue should be dealt with as soon as possible since mold/mildew can cause allergic reactions. This situation is much more serious if you or your passengers are suffering from asthma since these pollutants can trigger an asthma attack.

Is Your Car’s Interior Temperature Comfortable?

The temperature of your car’s interior should be 10℃ below the air temperature outside. In order to check that your A/C is working properly, you should use a thermometer to check the air temperature outside your car and then turn on your car’s A/C for about 10 minutes (this could take a little longer if it’s really hot outside). If you feel that your car’s interior temperature is not falling fast enough then your car’s A/C system may need to be serviced or repaired.

In addition, it is also a good idea to drive your car for at least 30 minutes with the A/C running. By doing so, you may identify issues that may not be noticeable when you turn on the air conditioning while the car is not moving. For example, you should keep an eye on your car’s engine temperature since the A/C can cause your car’s engine to overheat if it is not working properly. 

If You Identify A/C System Issues

If you complete your A/C inspection and determine that your air conditioning system is not working properly, then you need to take your vehicle to experienced and qualified A/C technicians near you. At Supertech Auto Repair North Vancouver, our Red Seal Certified technicians are highly trained and experienced at A/C inspections, service, and repairs. They are able to ensure your A/C system will produce cool air to keep you comfortable during the hot summer months.

An Important “Caveat Emptor”

There are numerous vehicle A/C DIY kits available at your local DIY stores to top up your air conditioning system. These DIY kits often contain explosive gases and can contaminate your A/C system. Moreover, if you need to remove these gases, it can cost you extra to remove them. What’s more, the sealants available to help you plug any holes can clog your A/C and basically render it completely useless. Overall, these kits can cause more issues than they fix so it would be wise to avoid them.

Book Your Car’s A/C System Service & Repair

If you need to service or repair your car’s A/C system, you should contact us before the air conditioning season gets really busy. If you would like more information about our air conditioning services, call us at 604-980-9801 or book your appointment online. Our expert A/C technicians can conduct a thorough service of your vehicle’s A/C system and help keep it performing at maximum coolness!