Believe it or not, the cabin filter can have a significant impact on your air conditioning system and, in turn, the power of your entire vehicle. If the filter is clogged, you may need to turn up the air conditioner to compensate. The harder your air conditioner works, the more the engine will run. You'll notice that the air conditioner starts emitting unpleasant odors once you turn it on.
Not only that, but you will also experience a change in the quality of the air conditioner; you will start to feel hot even if the air conditioner has been on for quite some time. While not all vehicles are equipped with cabin air filters, those that do need a clean, unobstructed surface to allow air to move freely. Cabin air filters can capture dust, insects, leaves, and other types of debris. A dirty air filter can certainly hinder the cooling capacity of your air conditioner and, after a while, could cause unnecessary strain on the entire system. Cabin air filters that need to be replaced are often clogged.
This blockage reduces airflow to air conditioning systems, affecting HVAC efficiency. As a result, the cooling and heating capacity of your car will be limited. In addition, it will put a lot of pressure on the system, causing a blowout. While a dirty cabin air filter can affect the air conditioning system, a dirty engine air filter can cause engine performance problems. This is understandable, considering that your car can use more than 10,000 gallons of oxygen for every gallon of fuel burned. Not only can a clogged cabin air filter cause an unpleasant smell inside your car, but it can also lead to other issues such as reduced cooling capacity and increased strain on the entire system.
If you've never changed your vehicle's cabin air filter, you may notice one or more of these symptoms. If you're faced with this smelly and poorly ventilated situation, it's time to check your vehicle's cabin air filter. It is also recommended that you change your engine and cabin air filters once a year or every 15,000 miles. In addition to improving the smell inside your car, replacing your cabin air filter can also improve the quality of the air introduced into the cabin by removing more dust and pollen that can cause allergies. You must ensure that the cabin air filter is working properly or else various difficulties could arise in the car.
Consult your owner's manual to locate your vehicle's cabin air filter and see if it's time to change it. A cabin air filter clogged with debris can cause the fan motor of the air system that pushes air through the car's ventilation grilles to malfunction, partially or fully. Simply cleaning the air filter and reinstalling it does not adequately protect the air conditioning system. 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. If you are an installer, make sure your customer understands the most serious risks by refusing cabin air filter service. Consult your owner's manual to determine the location of your car's cabin air filter and determine when it needs to be replaced.
