How To Make Sure Your A/C System Is Bacteria-Free

How To Make Sure Your A/C System Is Bacteria-Free?

Imagine you are taking a long drive on a hot day. Just when you know the ride will be comfortable because you have an A/C in your car, then after turning on your car’s A/C you realize after a few miles of driving there is a foul smell in your car.If you experience a musty and foul smell in your car every time you turn on your car’s A/C that is an indication that your system is infected with bacteria.

Naturally, a car’s air conditioning system is a breeding ground for harmful fungi, microorganisms, mold and bacteria. Basically, when a bacterium is present in an A/C system, it results in an unpleasant odor. If left unattended, it can be lead to serious health concerns especially for individuals who suffer from allergies and asthma.

Newer car models are more prone to bacteria growth because condensation gathers on the design around the evaporator coil. Experts have suggested that you need to run a defroster a few minutes before you turn on an A/C system in order to dry out the evaporator. However, some car designs limit this option.

How Dangerous Is Bacteria In An A/C System?

When bacteria get into an A/C system, it grows very fast which affects the air that passes through the evaporator. When a bacterium gets into an A/C system, what it does is that it goes through the evaporator before entering the car’s cabin through the vents. This is why you will smell it before you notice it.

How To Get Rid Of The Smell?

Usually, the smell in a car is usually the strongest after the system takes time to rest. After a while, the bad foul smell may subside but that only happens because the occupants in the car acclimatize to the sense of smell. The bacteria are still very much present and its effects.

What Are The Symptoms Of Sick Car Syndrome?

  • Flu like symptoms
  • Itchy and or watery eyes
  • Drowsiness
  • Running nose
  • Headaches

How To Prevent Bacteria Build Up?

You can get rid of mold and bacteria in your car by using your A/C at least once a week. If your car has the defrosting setting, ensure that you turn it on at least once after long periods of use. The most effective way to get rid of mold and bacteria in your car is to have your system regularly serviced. Most drivers apply air fresheners which may seem like its working, but that is only temporary. You need to get to the root of the problem in order to get rid of the foul smell once and for all.

Summary

The next time your car has an odor, don’t just apply a freshener. Ensure that you take your car for proper servicing. Let professionals take care of the problem once and for all. Take advantage of the recirculate function in your car to allow in more fresh air when driving. This function is barely used but it allows a driver to regulate the amount of external air that gets into the car.