Your car's air conditioning system contributes to making car journeys comfortable and can enhance your driving experience. The air conditioning system helps regulate the temperature and moisture levels inside your car and you can use it to demist your windows, but it does need to be serviced regularly to ensure it performs optimally. During a service, your mechanic will check the system for wear and leaks, top up the refrigerant and replenish the system lubricant. Here are a few warning signs that indicate your car's air conditioning system isn't performing as well as it should be.

Increased Condensation Levels

Your car's air conditioning system consists of a number of components including a condenser, evaporator and compressor that are linked together with hoses. When grime builds up in the hoses and a blockage develops, condensation levels will rise. High levels of condensation in your car can impact on your ability to see clearly through your windscreen and the increase in moisture levels in your car can damage your upholstery.

The Presence Of A Rattling Sound

Your air conditioning system should hum quietly when in use, so if it's making a rattling sound, there are a few possible reasons to consider. The condenser may be worn out, which would also prevent the system from cooling your car effectively. Alternatively, debris could be trapped anywhere in the system, and this could also reduce the airflow being generated.

The Development Of An Unpleasant Odour

There should be no odour produced by your car's air conditioning system when it's in good condition. However, an unpleasant odour can develop when dirt and dust build up in the system, as this can trap moisture within the hoses. Excess moisture in the system leads to bacteria and mildew growing in the hoses, which can cause a musty smell when you turn your air conditioning on.

The Airflow Is Reduced

If you notice the airflow is weaker than it once was, your air conditioning system may have a leak or the compressor may be faulty. When the airflow is reduced, you will typically need to run your air conditioning more to control the temperature in your car and limit the build-up of condensation on your car windows, and this can lead to your fuel consumption increasing.

An air conditioning service can be carried out while you wait, so if you've noticed any of the above warning signs that the air conditioning system isn't performing optimally, book your car in with your local garage for a car air conditioning service.