2024-01-19
With it being an icy winter most of us are turning up the heat, putting on extra layers of clothing and wondering about how warm the summer days will be. Many drivers believe AC (air conditioning) should only be used in the summer months. In this blog post, we’ll identify the benefits of maintaining your AC all year round and how using AC in the winter can contribute to its performance during the hot summer days.
Preventative Maintenance:
Like all machinery, if the AC system is not regularly maintained or used, it can lead to the internal components becoming inactive. Using the AC periodically at a high temperature during winter months helps the internal system become active. This prevents any components from seizing up. Older AC systems need to be used as it helps avoid potential issues and ensures a smoother transition into the summer.
Preventing Mold and Mildew:
The damp and humid conditions in winter can lead to Mold and Mildew inside the AC system. Using the AC in winter months helps dry excess moisture and the formation of harmful substances. The Mold and Mildew not only affects the indoor air quality within a vehicle but also the efficiency of air conditioning.
Avoiding refrigerant issues:
Air conditioners rely on the refrigerants to cool the air when used. The refrigerant levels in the winter can decrease due to leaks and other issues. To achieve optimal performance, efficiency, and overall longevity it is important to run your AC system in the winter. This helps you recognise and address any potential refrigerant problems earlier.
Proper functionality:
Having a well-maintained AC system is more likely to perform efficiently when you need it most. Using your system in the winter helps the driver see if the thermostat, fans, and condenser coils are functioning properly. This proactive approach can save you from unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs, ensuring your AC is ready to cool your vehicle when the summer heat arrives.
Defrosting / De-Icing:
Turning on the AC when a car is iced during the winter months plays a crucial role in defrosting and de-icing the windshield and windows. Turning on the AC at a high temperature helps to remove moisture from the air inside the vehicle. This dry air is then directed onto the windows, effectively preventing condensation, and helping to clear any frost or ice. This also contributes to dehumidifying the air within the vehicle which results in decreased moisture levels inside the car.
Energy efficient:
The overall efficiency of the air conditioning in the winter can improve with the system being used periodically, preventing it from sitting idle for long periods. A smooth-operating Air-Conditioned unit is more likely to use less energy when in use, as all components in an old AC system like the compressor, fans and motors may experience increased friction and resistance when they are eventually turned on. This can lead to higher energy consumption as the system works harder to overcome this resistance. However, being used on a regular occurrence, the AC will perform at optimal levels.
In conclusion, using air conditioning during winter months is a strategic approach to ensure optimal performance and longevity. By taking the proactive approach to maintaining your AC system, you will be rewarded with a fully functioning system ensuring optimal performance and longevity. This helps you enjoy the cool air on hot summer days and keeps you cosy in the winter.