How to Get Bacteria Out of Your Car AC

Your car air conditioning system can accumulate bacteria which can cause damage to both your air conditioner and your health. Time to get it serviced!

Due to old age and lack of proper maintenance, mould, mildew, fungi and micro-organisms can start to grow in your car’s AC. The growth of bacteria can cause an unpleasant odour when you turn on your car’s air conditioning system.

MOULD & MILDEW IN YOUR CAR’S AC

Mould and mildew are the common sources of bacteria in your car’s air conditioner. They grow due to moisture (caused by condensation, humidity, or any water leakage inside the car), and lack of airflow. Your air conditioner becomes the breeding ground of mould and mildew, especially when it’s turned on.

SIGNS THAT YOUR CAR ARE CONDITIONING HAS BACTERIA

Mould and mildew are the common sources of bacteria in your car’s air conditioner. They grow due to moisture (caused by condensation, humidity, or any water leakage inside the car), and lack of airflow. Your air conditioner becomes the breeding ground of mould and mildew, especially when it’s turned on.

If it has been more than a year since you brought your car to a service centre, there’s a big possibility that your air conditioner may be full of dirt and bacteria. Look out for the following signs to know if your car’s AC needs a thorough, anti-bacterial clean:

COMMON HEALTH ISSUES CAUSED BY BACTERIA IN YOUR CAR’S AC

Your car’s AC accumulates bacteria when the air that travels into the car through the air conditioner’s evaporator and vents carries mould and bacterial particles. When you’re inside the car with the aircon on and the windows closed, you’ll be inhaling the air that blows out of the air conditioner vents. This means you’ll also inhale the bacteria through the air. It can cause several health issues – from minor headaches to more serious problems such as allergic reactions.

Here are other health issues caused by bacteria in your car’s air conditioning system:

HOW TO GET RID OF BACTERIA IN YOUR CAR AIR CONDITIONER

Since your car air conditioning unit is always exposed to dust, dirt and moisture, it’s normal for bacteria to multiply inside it. However, you can do something to help get rid of the common causes of bacteria and microorganisms such as mould, mildew, and dirt.

Anti-Bacterial Spray

You can use an anti-bacterial killing spray to temporarily get rid of bacteria inside your car. Make sure you only use it whilst there is no one inside the car, and leave it for around 30 to 60 minutes before you use the car.

Clean the Vents

Another way to temporarily clean your air conditioner is by cleaning the air vents. Use a clean cloth and soak it with vinegar, then wipe your air conditioner vents to remove any dirt and bacteria. You can also use a baking soda solution instead of vinegar.

Clean or Change the Air Filter

Having your air filter cleaned or replaced is a great way to remove the mould and any other sources of bacteria in your car air conditioning. Ideally, your air filters should be changed every two years.

GET A PROFESSIONAL AIRCON CLEANING

If you think your car’s air conditioning unit has accumulated too much dirt and bacteria, it’s best to have your AC checked by a professional for a cleaning service. Motorama has car air conditioning experts that have the necessary tools and skills to effectively remove mould and mildew from your air conditioner, making it safe for your health.

PREVENT AC BACTERIAL GROWTH

There are ways to prevent bacterial growth in your car’s AC. First, you should keep the car interior clean – remove all rubbish, wash and change the floor mats regularly. Even if you don’t regularly use your car, always wipe the vents clean and turn on the car’s air conditioning weekly for at least 10 minutes. Also, run the defrost setting after long periods of use.

Most importantly, the best way to prevent bacteria and mould from building up in your car air conditioning unit is to have it regularly serviced.In our experience, your car’s air conditioner should be checked and cleaned at least once a year.Need a hand?The experts at Motorama Tyre & Service are equipped to do this for you and will have your air conditioning working efficiently in no time.