If you live in North Texas, then you truly know the importance of a well-working car air conditioner in the blazing summers. A broken AC can lead to a life of using your car sparingly and solely for non-negotiables like work and school. No one should have to endure a Dallas summer without car AC! 🥵At Kwik Kar in Dallas, we aim to keep your car cool, safe, and comfortable. Let’s look at some of our tried-and-true tips for keeping your car’s AC running cool in the hot summer months.
Pre-Summer AC Maintenance
It’s never too soon to send your car for maintenance before summer takes its toll. We say it’s always best to be prepared and avoid the dangerous situation of your AC blowing hot when the temps hit the highs.
Checking refrigerant levels should be at the top of your list. Refrigerant helps your car’s AC system pull heat from the car and release cool, dry air. Proper levels are essential, and before summer, your refrigerant levels should be between 25 and 40 pounds per square inch (psi) on the low-pressure gauge and 225 and 250 psi on the high-pressure gauge.
Connecting an AC gauge to the car’s compressor and running the AC on high will help you determine your refrigerant levels. If they’re low, we suggest stopping in at a local mechanic’s shop for a top-off.
After you’ve inspected your fluid levels, ensure no cracks or leaks. Damaged serpentine belts can highly reduce your AC’s cooling capacity.
Tips for Daily Air Conditioner Use
There’s lots of little things you can do daily to help your car’s AC survive the summer.
Something as simple as parking in the shade can help you reduce the initial heat load on your AC system. Cars get very hot in the sun and can take up to an hour to cool down, and a naturally cooler spot may reduce that time.
Using window shades and tints can reduce interior heat by 8-25%. This makes your AC work with less stress to keep up with summer cooling needs.
The absolute easiest way to keep your AC happy is to open window in the car to let out hot air before starting the system!
Optimizing AC Performance While Driving
While you’re driving, we suggest starting the AC fan at a lower speed. This reduces stress on the system and lets it work to cool down gradually.
You know that little air recirculation button? Don’t be afraid to use it. Just pushing this button puts your system in recirculation mode and keeps already cool air inside your vehicle.
Much like setting your fan at the lowest speed, we recommend saving your system by not setting the AC to the lowest temperature immediately.
Is Your Car AC in Trouble?
Unfortunately, if you missed some of our “hot tips,” here are some signs that your system is in trouble and it’s time to let us look under the hood.
Weak Airflow
If your airflow is weak or non-existent, there are many reasons for it. From a busted air compressor to electrical issues or a clogged filter, there are too many possibilities for the average person to catch.
A mechanic near you who specializes in car AC repairs can help you determine the issue and provide you with a fair and efficient repair.
Unusual Noises
If you turn your AC on and hear squealing noises, this is a sign that your serpentine belt is clogged. These belts power your air compressor, so if you hear the squeal, your AC is bound for problems.
Strange Odors
Refrigerant leaks and faulty drain lines breed bad, musty odors. If your system is constantly damp, your blowing air may pick up a whiff of mold. This is dangerous for your health and should be corrected immediately.
Stay Cool This Summer with Kwik Kar AC Repair
Don’t get left out in the heat this summer while you’re on the road. Take the tiny steps we’ve recommended towards helping to prolong the life of your car’s AC. Then, when your annual AC maintenance arises, our team at Kwik Kar in Dallas, Texas, is here to help you prevent disaster from striking.
Ready to enjoy your summer without the threat of a busted AC? Contact us today to schedule your next maintenance or repair.
