Air conditioning service in spring: great climate meets pollen protection

Spring at last, which means warmth and sunshine! Of course, it quickly gets too warm in the car: reach for the air conditioning and - nothing happens! This unpleasant surprise happens to drivers time and time again. At least every two years, often annually, car brands prescribe an air conditioning service on the vehicle. There is a good reason why this annual frequency is recommended: functioning air conditioning systems are not only a matter of comfort, but also of health (keyword: germs), the environment (refrigerant leaks) and safety. Studies say: 27 degrees in the car has the same effect as 0.5 per mille alcohol in the blood - and let's be honest: who wants to sweat or have foggy windows (because the air conditioning also dehumidifies)?

Ideally an annual climate check
Many garages offer inexpensive air conditioning checks, not only, but especially in spring, during which the system is checked and serviced as required. An important part of this is topping up or replacing the air conditioning agent. Similar to air in a tire, a small amount of refrigerant (around ten percent annually) evaporates over time, and after a few years the refrigerant loses its desired properties and needs to be replaced. Leaks can also occur in the system, for example in hoses. If you notice a drop in cooling performance, it is actually already too late - which is why an annual air conditioning check is recommended as a preventive measure, which can be easily combined with other work such as seasonal tire changes. During an A/C check, the garage checks the system and the refrigerant level, tops up or replaces the fluid and - not to be underestimated - disposes of any old fluid in an environmentally friendly manner. And if leaks are suspected, a leak detector and suitable test lamp are used to detect defects.

Retrofit filters protect against pollen
For pollen allergy sufferers or simply people with a certain sensitivity to environmental influences and odors, it is advisable to consider upgrading the filter type at the time of the air conditioning service. In any case, the filter should be replaced annually or every 15,000 to 30,000 kilometers - because it can become clogged or, in extreme cases, even moldy. While newer cars usually have special pollen filters, cheaper or older cars in particular often only have very simple fiber filters, the lowest filter level. Fiber filters trap dust and dirt. Pollen too, for the most part - but allergy sufferers are better off playing it safe, and higher-quality combination filters (activated charcoal filters) are available for almost all cars. They not only trap more particles, but also pollutants and unpleasant odors, which protects the airways and alleviates symptoms. The surcharge is low. However, we recommend that allergy sufferers go straight for the highest filter level: HEPA filters also remove the smallest particles (fine dust) and even bacteria from the air at a modest additional cost.

By the way: Even if the interior does not need to be cooled, the air conditioning should be switched on once a month with manual systems (usually the «AC» button). This keeps all components moving. If you remember to do so, you can also switch it off shortly before the end of the journey: The system then dries out, which prevents germs from forming. Just like cars in general, air conditioning systems are there to be used - otherwise there is a risk of damage.

The carXpert network
The name says it all: Behind the name carXpert is a Switzerland-wide network of over 280 independent quality garages and over 40 independent body stores - all experts for your car. In these multi-brand garages, every car feels at home with the qualified specialists because it is serviced and repaired according to the manufacturer's instructions with original equipment parts - guaranteed to keep the warranty! The premium network offers the highest level of expertise and service quality as well as, for example, assistance and used car warranties. The carXpert partners are also ideal contacts for topics such as vacation checks and starter batteries! Many offer a vacation check at reasonable fixed prices. This usually involves checking the starter battery. If a replacement is required carXpert partner a wide range from economy to high-tech premium batteries. carxpert.ch

*The content was created by the Autosprint editorial team in collaboration with carXpert. Cars of all makes are welcome in the carXpert garages and body shops.