Cool Your Car Effectively This Summer

Hot Car in the Summer Heat? Cool it Effectively with Your AC

During the summer months, particularly in the UAE and Dubai regions, drivers often encounter the unpleasant issue that even though the car's air conditioning is running, the interior remains hot. This not only causes discomfort but also poses a safety risk, as an overheated car interior can lead to fatigue, reduced concentration, and even potentially dangerous situations.

Most of these problems can be prevented – simply by following a few straightforward yet effective tips.

Common Mistakes - How NOT to Use Your Car’s AC

Many people switch the air conditioner to the highest setting immediately after starting the engine, hoping the air will cool down faster. However, this is not the most efficient method. The first step is to open the windows after starting the engine and use the outside air setting. This helps to expel the hot air trapped inside the car.

Only then should you switch to recirculation mode and gradually roll up the windows once the air inside is cooler. Immediately starting the internal circulation mode will only further heat the trapped air.

Smoking and Unpleasant Odors - Enemies of the Cooling System

Many do not consider it, but smoking significantly affects the air conditioning's performance. The smoke and odors deposit onto the evaporator unit, clog the filters, and result in polluted, musty air. This is not only uncomfortable but also reduces the system's efficiency in the long run.

Using the recirculation mode for extended periods in smoke-laden environments is particularly harmful, as the air is not refreshed, and the pollution recirculates in the system.

Regular Maintenance – Not a Luxury, but a Necessity

Experts state that the proper functioning of the car AC is only ensured if regular maintenance is not neglected. Here are some basic maintenance steps:

Change or clean the internal filter at least every 30,000 kilometers or after three oil changes.

Check the refrigerant pressure with specialized tools. Ideally, it should be 30–35 on the low end and about 200 on the high end.

Regularly check the coolant and engine oil levels, as their lack can cause cooling problems, directly affecting AC performance.

Errors to Watch Out For

A common issue is sudden cooling shutdown or unusual odors appearing when the AC is turned on. First, check the temperature setting. If this doesn't help, it could be due to refrigerant leakage, compressor, or evaporator malfunction.

If you notice strange smells like moldy or stale air, it's almost certainly a sign of accumulated dirt and bacteria in the system. In such cases, changing or thoroughly cleaning the filters is essential.

Important: If you notice a problem, do NOT continue to use the AC. It could cause more severe damage. Instead, visit a specialized service center or call a mobile AC service, who can check the pressure, filter for leaks, and inspect the wiring, filter, evaporator, and compressor.

Tips for Effective Cooling in Extreme Heat

For optimal performance, follow these rules:

Start the AC with the external air setting, then switch to internal circulation later.

Do not start the AC immediately, especially not before a high-speed start.

Ensure the filters are clean and all necessary fluids (coolant, oil) are at the correct levels.

Useful Tips Before Buying a Car

If you are considering buying a new or used car, pay attention to the air conditioning's performance even when stationary. If it starts blowing cold air within two to three minutes without needing to accelerate, that's a good sign. Otherwise, there might be an issue with the compressor.

Don't be misled by the size of the vents – cooling performance doesn't depend on this. Even vehicles with smaller vents can be efficient if the system is properly maintained and functioning well.

Other Points to Consider

Don't turn on the AC right after starting the engine – wait for the oil to circulate.

Turn off the AC before turning off the engine.

Avoid running the AC with the engine idling for extended periods – this not only wastes energy but also reduces the system's lifespan.

Summary

In the summer heat of Dubai and the UAE, a well-functioning car AC is not a luxury, but a basic necessity. However, proper use, regular maintenance, and following a few simple rules can help ensure that travel remains cool and safe even on the hottest days. By paying attention to these details, not only will your car's AC have a longer lifespan, but your own comfort and safety on the road will also be guaranteed.

(Source of the article is based on auto mechanics' accounts.)