How to Remove Bacteria from Your Car’s Air Conditioning
Bacteria can accumulate in your car air conditioning system, causing damage to both your air conditioner and your health. It’s time to have it serviced!
Mold, mildew, fungi, and microorganisms can begin to grow in your car’s air conditioning system due to age and lack of proper maintenance. When you turn on your car’s air conditioning system, bacteria growth can cause an unpleasant odor.
Mould and Mildew in Your Car’s Air Conditioning
Mould and mildew are common bacteria sources in your car’s air conditioner. Moisture (caused by condensation, humidity, or any water leakage inside the car) and a lack of airflow cause them to grow. When your air conditioner is turned on, it becomes a breeding ground for mould and mildew.
Bacterial signs in your car’s conditioning
Mould and mildew are common bacteria sources in your car’s air conditioner. Moisture (caused by condensation, humidity, or any water leakage inside the car) and a lack of airflow cause them to grow. When your air conditioner is turned on, it becomes a breeding ground for mould and mildew.
If it’s been more than a year since you’ve had your car serviced, there’s a good chance your air conditioner is full of dirt and bacteria. Look for the following signs to see if your car’s air conditioner requires a thorough anti-bacterial cleaning:
- noxious odor
- The air conditioner vents are not blowing cold air.
- The sensation of suffocation
Bacteria in Your Car’s AC Causes Common Health Issues
When mould and bacterial particles enter the car through the air conditioner’s evaporator and vents, bacteria accumulate in the air conditioner. When you’re inside your car with the air conditioner on and the windows closed, you’ll be inhaling the air that blows out of the vents. This means you’ll be inhaling the bacteria as well. It can cause a variety of health problems, ranging from minor headaches to more serious issues such as allergic reactions.
Other health problems caused by bacteria in your car’s air conditioning system include:
- Headache and drowsiness
- Cold or stuffy nose
- Sneezing and coughing are examples of allergic reactions.
- Infections caused by bacteria
How to Remove Bacteria from Your Car Air Conditioner
Bacteria can grow inside your car air conditioning unit because it is constantly exposed to dust, dirt, and moisture. You can, however, help to eliminate the common causes of bacteria and microorganisms, such as mould, mildew, and dirt.
Spray Anti-Bacterial
To get rid of bacteria in your car temporarily, use an anti-bacterial killing spray. Use it only when there is no one inside the car, and leave it for 30 to 60 minutes before using the car.
Vent Cleaning
Cleaning the air vents is another way to temporarily clean your air conditioner. Soak a clean cloth in vinegar before wiping down your air conditioner vents to remove dirt and bacteria. Instead of vinegar, a baking soda solution can be used.
Replace or clean the air filter
Cleaning or replacing your air filter is an excellent way to eliminate mould and other sources of bacteria in your car’s air conditioning. Your air filters should be changed every two years, ideally.
Get Professional Air Conditioning Cleaning
If you believe your car’s air conditioning unit has become clogged with dirt and bacteria, you should have it cleaned by a professional. Motorama has car air conditioning experts who have the tools and skills needed to effectively remove mould and mildew from your air conditioner and make it safe for your health.
Stop AC Bacterial Growth
There are ways to keep bacteria from growing in your car’s air conditioning system. To begin, keep the car interior clean by removing all trash and washing and replacing the floor mats on a regular basis. Even if you don’t use your car on a regular basis, clean the vents and turn on the air conditioning at least once a week for at least 10 minutes. Also, after extended periods of use, use the defrost setting.
Most importantly, having your car air conditioning unit serviced on a regular basis is the best way to keep bacteria and mould at bay.
Your car’s air conditioner, in our opinion, should be checked and cleaned at least once a year.
Do you require assistance?
Motorama Tyre & Service has the expertise to do this for you and will have your air conditioning running smoothly in no time.