Discover the Truth Behind These 7 Car AC Myths
Not everything you hear about your car is the truth. Although AC technology has existed for many years, many car owners still don't know the difference between fact and fiction. That's why some of these false beliefs have become widely accepted as common knowledge. So, we are here to set the record straight. In this blog, we will expose the 7 common myths about your car's air conditioning.
Outline:
- Your car uses less fuel when driving with the AC on while the windows are down
- Use your AC only during summer
- When your car AC runs out of refrigerant, it must be topped up
- You can save gas by not using the AC
- It's fine to keep using the AC, even when the refrigerant is low
- Running the AC adversely affects gas mileage
- You shouldn't start the car with the AC On
- Conclusion
Your car uses less fuel when driving with the AC on while the windows are down
This is one of the most common myths about car AC, and there have been several cases where this has been put to the test. Yet, it is relatively hard to have a plainly defined answer. Fuel efficiency relies on different factors like speed, car model, temperature, aerodynamics, and driving conditions. Hence, it is difficult to prove whether this myth is factual or not. In some tests, there was a significant decrease in fuel efficiency when using the AC unit; however, it was highly irrelevant in some conditions.
Use your AC only during summer
This is false. Your car's air conditioning is composed of many moving parts, which depend on lubrication to keep them functioning at peak performance. If the air conditioning unit is unused for a few weeks or months, these components sit idle. Lack of lubrication can cause the AC system, valves, seals, hoses as well as connections in the various parts of the AC to dry out. Once this occurs, these components risk splitting, disintegrating or cracking. Lack of oil moving in the AC system regularly can also damage the compressor, causing it to fall or seize internally. An auto ac repair expert advises car owners to use the AC system once weekly, even in cold weather. Aside from helping to keep the components oiled, it will also assist in determining any possible problems prior to becoming major repairs.
When your car AC runs out of refrigerant, it must be topped up
This is not true at all. Your AC system is totally sealed, so the refrigerant shouldn't go anywhere. But, like many other components of your car, the parts of your air conditioning system are prone to wear and tear in the long run. Some possible causes of issues are seals or hoses, cracked valves, contaminated or blocked cabin filters, damaged components, and faulty parts. If your AC unit's refrigerant level is low, there is a possible leak somewhere.
You can save gas by not using the AC
According to the American Automobile Association, the AC consumes fuel. However, it does not significantly matter, which is why it usually goes unnoticed by car owners. If this is not enough to convince you, here's a tip: roll the windows down with the AC off when driving in the summer. In the winter, make sure to turn it on for just a couple of minutes once a week. Doing so helps your AC system to function properly and prevents it from taking a toll on your car’s health.
It's fine to keep using the AC, even when the refrigerant is low
An inadequate freon supply will prevent your AC system from activating. So, technically, it will stop producing cool air. If you keep using your air conditioner even when it is not working well, then it can cause massive damage to the unit, which could mean expensive repairs. Once this occurs, take your car to a car AC repair specialist right away.
Running the AC adversely affects gas mileage
The car air conditioner needs the power to work, and it gets this from the engine that runs on gas. Many factors influence how much energy your air conditioning system takes from the engine, which includes weather conditions, how old your car is (the latest car models are more energy-efficient), and the engine’s size, model, and make.
So, does running the air conditioner lead to bad gas mileage? This statement is true as the added demands it puts on the engine resulting in a bit of dip. The good news is that, in some conditions, the drop is comparatively small. Also, you can make minor alterations like driving slower and not putting heavy objects inside your car when driving to boost fuel economy.
You shouldn't start the car with the AC On
This myth is only applicable to outdated or older models. Here, the engine takes a couple of minutes or even hours to reach full efficiency after switching on. It is difficult for them to manage the considerable power load of an air conditioner compressor. If you keep starting an old model car with an air conditioning system on, together with other accessories like a car stereo, the lifespan of the engine could ultimately be shortened.
Nowadays, things are very different. Once the starter engages on the latest car models, most power-hungry accessories switch off automatically. Therefore, if you are thinking, "can I start my car with the air conditioner on"? The answer is yes, provided your vehicle is a 2007 model or later.
Conclusion
These are just some of the myths you must be aware of about your car's air conditioner. Some of these come from other vehicle owners who are not experts in car air conditioning systems. Sorting out what to believe can be challenging if you're not a car professional. So, to set the record straight, consult the nearest auto ac repair Palmdale to give you verified information.
Book an appointment with Carlax Quality Automotive, a professional auto AC repair company in Palmdale. Our licensed and experienced mechanics have been in the business for several years. So, you can have peace of mind and assurance to get the best and highest quality service.
Not everything you hear about your car is the truth. Although AC technology has existed for many years, many car owners still don't know the difference between fact and fiction. That's why some of these false beliefs have become widely accepted as common knowledge. So, we are here to set the record straight. In this blog, we will expose the 7 common myths about your car's air conditioning.
Outline:
- Your car uses less fuel when driving with the AC on while the windows are down
- Use your AC only during summer
- When your car AC runs out of refrigerant, it must be topped up
- You can save gas by not using the AC
- It's fine to keep using the AC, even when the refrigerant is low
- Running the AC adversely affects gas mileage
- You shouldn't start the car with the AC On
- Conclusion
Your car uses less fuel when driving with the AC on while the windows are down
This is one of the most common myths about car AC, and there have been several cases where this has been put to the test. Yet, it is relatively hard to have a plainly defined answer. Fuel efficiency relies on different factors like speed, car model, temperature, aerodynamics, and driving conditions. Hence, it is difficult to prove whether this myth is factual or not. In some tests, there was a significant decrease in fuel efficiency when using the AC unit; however, it was highly irrelevant in some conditions.
Use your AC only during summer
This is false. Your car's air conditioning is composed of many moving parts, which depend on lubrication to keep them functioning at peak performance. If the air conditioning unit is unused for a few weeks or months, these components sit idle. Lack of lubrication can cause the AC system, valves, seals, hoses as well as connections in the various parts of the AC to dry out. Once this occurs, these components risk splitting, disintegrating or cracking. Lack of oil moving in the AC system regularly can also damage the compressor, causing it to fall or seize internally. An auto ac repair expert advises car owners to use the AC system once weekly, even in cold weather. Aside from helping to keep the components oiled, it will also assist in determining any possible problems prior to becoming major repairs.
When your car AC runs out of refrigerant, it must be topped up
This is not true at all. Your AC system is totally sealed, so the refrigerant shouldn't go anywhere. But, like many other components of your car, the parts of your air conditioning system are prone to wear and tear in the long run. Some possible causes of issues are seals or hoses, cracked valves, contaminated or blocked cabin filters, damaged components, and faulty parts. If your AC unit's refrigerant level is low, there is a possible leak somewhere.
You can save gas by not using the AC
According to the American Automobile Association, the AC consumes fuel. However, it does not significantly matter, which is why it usually goes unnoticed by car owners. If this is not enough to convince you, here's a tip: roll the windows down with the AC off when driving in the summer. In the winter, make sure to turn it on for just a couple of minutes once a week. Doing so helps your AC system to function properly and prevents it from taking a toll on your car’s health.
It's fine to keep using the AC, even when the refrigerant is low
An inadequate freon supply will prevent your AC system from activating. So, technically, it will stop producing cool air. If you keep using your air conditioner even when it is not working well, then it can cause massive damage to the unit, which could mean expensive repairs. Once this occurs, take your car to a car AC repair specialist right away.
Running the AC adversely affects gas mileage
The car air conditioner needs the power to work, and it gets this from the engine that runs on gas. Many factors influence how much energy your air conditioning system takes from the engine, which includes weather conditions, how old your car is (the latest car models are more energy-efficient), and the engine’s size, model, and make.
So, does running the air conditioner lead to bad gas mileage? This statement is true as the added demands it puts on the engine resulting in a bit of dip. The good news is that, in some conditions, the drop is comparatively small. Also, you can make minor alterations like driving slower and not putting heavy objects inside your car when driving to boost fuel economy.
You shouldn't start the car with the AC On
This myth is only applicable to outdated or older models. Here, the engine takes a couple of minutes or even hours to reach full efficiency after switching on. It is difficult for them to manage the considerable power load of an air conditioner compressor. If you keep starting an old model car with an air conditioning system on, together with other accessories like a car stereo, the lifespan of the engine could ultimately be shortened.
Nowadays, things are very different. Once the starter engages on the latest car models, most power-hungry accessories switch off automatically. Therefore, if you are thinking, "can I start my car with the air conditioner on"? The answer is yes, provided your vehicle is a 2007 model or later.
Conclusion
These are just some of the myths you must be aware of about your car's air conditioner. Some of these come from other vehicle owners who are not experts in car air conditioning systems. Sorting out what to believe can be challenging if you're not a car professional. So, to set the record straight, consult the nearest auto ac repair Palmdale to give you verified information.
Book an appointment with Carlax Quality Automotive, a professional auto AC repair company in Palmdale. Our licensed and experienced mechanics have been in the business for several years. So, you can have peace of mind and assurance to get the best and highest quality service.
