Some Myths About Your Car's Air Conditioning System

14
April
2023

When purchasing a new or used car, you must know which features, including air conditioning, are available. Some drivers do not entirely understand how to use air conditioners and are misled by air conditioning myths. Read on to discover reliable information about using your car's air conditioning function properly. If you're in the market for a new vehicle, check out the new and used cars at Blainville Chrysler.

Air conditioning is essential for your car - especially in warmer climates. It can help you to keep your vehicle at a pleasant temperature and stay fresh throughout your journey. However, many myths and misconceptions surround air conditioning and what an air conditioner can do. Keep reading as we debunk some air conditioning myths to help you understand what’s really going on with your car’s systems. If you need a new car with better features, why not check out the Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, RAM, and Fiat vehicles at Blainville Chrysler, your go-to car dealership in Blainville?

What Is a Car/Vehicle Air Conditioning System, and How Does It Work?

Air conditioners for cars are designed to moderate the temperature within a vehicle to keep the driver comfortable throughout their journey. The car air conditioning system creates cold air by transferring a refrigerant fluid between a liquid and a pressurized gas. The refrigerant helps cool the air by absorbing heat in the surrounding area. It also helps to reduce the humidity in the air, providing a dryer, cooler atmosphere.

Common Myths about Air Conditioners in Cars

Let's help you get acquainted with your car's air conditioner. Here are some of the most common myths about the AC system in your car.

Windows Are Better

One of the most common myths surrounding AC systems is that windows are the most economical way to cool down your car. However, this is far from the truth! Rather than providing a way to cool your car without additional fuel, windows cause your car to use more. Opening your windows affects fuel efficiency by creating an air tunnel in your car. The airflow creates resistance, slowing down your car, so you must use more fuel to stay at a steady speed.

Air Conditioning Is Only Useful in Summer Months

Air conditioning isn't just for the summer months. During the winter, you should clear your front windows of any condensation caused by the cold weather before driving. Your air conditioning is a handy tool to help you create a clearer view before setting off on cold mornings.

Air Conditioning Is Bad for the Environment

Using your air conditioning is no worse than opening your windows to allow more cold airflow. However, the refrigerant used in air conditioning units can harm the ozone layer. They contain chemicals that can erode the protective layer helping to sustain our climate.

Air Conditioner Refrigerant Is Dangerous

Automotive air conditioning systems contain a refrigerant that can be dangerous to a person's health. However, this refrigerant is contained in your car's air conditioning system and does not leak into the passenger compartment. So, using your air conditioning system won’t endanger your health.

You Shouldn't Use Your AC System While Driving Uphill

Older car air conditioning systems used to present the risk of overheating under pressure. This meant that many drivers used to turn off their air condenser while driving uphill. However, today's vehicles are designed to keep the heat at bay and ensure your AC system can work in all conditions.

Weather Conditions Don't Affect AC System Performance

If you park your car in the sunlight, this will heat both the high-pressure and low-pressure sides of your AC system. This means the AC system will take longer to cool down your car, as the coolant must first reduce the heat in the surrounding area. That means weather condition will affect your AC system performance.

You Should Leave Your Air Con on All of the Time

You don’t need to leave your air-con all the time. You should use it to cool down your car's interior. Car air conditioning contributes to fuel consumption; you should switch it off if you don't need it to avoid spending more time at the fuel pump!

Looking For a New Car With a High Quality Air Conditioning System? Visit a Reputable Car Dealership in Blainville

Air conditioning is your best friend in the summer months - and handy to clear those foggy windows in the winter. Taking good care of your AC system is important to avoid costly repairs for this feature in your car. Windows could be better for fuel efficiency and won't keep your car as cool. Visit Blainville Chrysler today and we can answer any questions you have about the air conditioning systems in your new or used car! We’re your go-to car dealership in Blainville that can provide you with all the information you need to keep your air conditioning system running in top condition!