When you turn on your car's AC and are greeted with a foul smell, it's more than just an inconvenience—it can also pose a risk to your respiratory health. Due to India's tropical climate, smelly car AC is a common and recurring problem. It occurs when moisture or dirt accumulates in the AC system, creating the perfect breeding ground for mould and bacteria to grow.
If you are struggling with how to get rid of car AC smell, this blog provides effective ways to eliminate AC odours.
Ways to eliminate odour from a car air conditioner
Here are useful and fool-proof tips on how to get rid of AC smell in cars and restore fresh air circulation:
- Replace the cabin air filter
The cabin air filter traps dust, pollen, and allergens before they enter your car. Over time, this filter becomes clogged and may harbour fungus and microorganisms. Replacing it with a HEPA filter every 15,000-30,000 kilometres can significantly reduce AC odour.
- Run the fan without AC
Before turning off your vehicle, turn off the AC, but keep the fan running for 5-10 minutes. Alternatively, you can activate the defrost mode. This helps quickly dry out the evaporator and prevents moisture buildup that causes unpleasant smells.
- Clean the AC system with disinfectants
Using an AC disinfectant spray or cleaner is an easy DIY solution. Spraying disinfectant into the air vents while the fan runs can help kill bacteria and mould inside the system. Specialised AC cleaning sprays are readily available on Amazon and other marketplaces.
- Clear the condensation drain line
A blocked drain line can accumulate water in the evaporator, fostering bacterial growth. The drain line is generally located below the passenger side of the engine. Unclogging this line using a vacuum cleaner or water and vinegar solution can initiate proper drainage and prevent odours. For severe blockages, seek professional help.
- Use AC foam cleaners
Foam cleaners designed for evaporators can deeply cleanse the system, removing trapped contaminants and odours. These products expand inside the evaporator, effectively eradicating bacteria and mildew.
Conclusion
Understanding how to get rid of car AC odour on your own is crucial to prevent unnecessary service centre trips and expenses.
However, protecting your vehicle goes beyond regular maintenance. You must consider a car insurance policy to help you with the expensive repair costs caused by unforeseen incidents. Choose comprehensive car insurance that covers non-collision damages, premium accessories and tyres, and natural calamities, apart from the mandatory third-party liability.
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