It may come as a surprise, but the cabin filter in your car can have a significant effect on your air conditioning system and, in turn, the power of your vehicle. When the filter is clogged, you may need to turn up the air conditioner to compensate for the reduced airflow. This can place a strain on the air conditioning system as it works harder to blow more air into the cabin. Not only that, but you will also notice a change in the quality of the air conditioner; you may start to feel hot even if the air conditioner has been running for some time.
This is because a clogged cabin filter can reduce the amount of air that can pass through, slowing down the flow of air into the car. Replacing your cabin air filter every six months or 15,000 miles can be beneficial to your car's air conditioning and heating performance. Not only will it improve the quality of air introduced into the cabin by removing more dust and pollen that can cause allergies, but it will also help to reduce the burden on your car's air conditioning system. It is important to understand that not changing your cabin air filter is not just about air quality, but also a safety issue and a maintenance requirement for the climate control system.
If you don't replace it, dust that is not deposited inside the system will be ejected directly to the occupants of the car. In extreme cases, a clogged filter can completely obstruct the airflow, either by causing the fan motor to fail or by sucking the filter out of its housing along with all the debris that seeps out. When this happens, your car's system has to work harder and requires more engine power to do so. If you are an installer, make sure your customer understands these risks by refusing cabin air filter service. Alternatively, take your car to a Firestone Complete Auto Care near you to have a professional technician ensure your cabin air filter is fresh and clean.
