With the arrival of spring, we can look forward to our first hot days and lots of pollen!
So, what does this mean for your car? Well, to start, cars are great pollen collectors. In fact, if you brush up against your car, you can transfer some of that pollen right into the car with you! So, during the spring it’s important to keep your car clean. Additionally, to lessen the impact of pollen, you will want to check the cabin air filter as well as the efficiency of the air conditioning.
In general, the cabin air filter should be changed about every 12,000 to 15,000 miles. For many drivers, that’s about once per year, so it’s a good idea to plan to have your cabin air filter changed in the spring. That way, you can start the season with a clean and efficient system.
In most cars changing the filter and cleaning the housing takes about half an hour. The average cost of a cabin air filter from an original equipment manufacturer is $30, but there are exceptions. There is a BMW cabin air filter that costs $65, and some vehicles that have two air filters.
If you are particularly sensitive to pollen, then you can buy special filters that are designed to filter out even smaller particles than a “normal” filter would. For example, Bosch sells special HEPA filters that are designed to filter out microscopic pollutants like pollen, mold and other common allergens down to 0.3 microns.
Of course, to keep the pollutants out, you will need to keep your windows closed, and on warm days, that means running your air conditioner. Keeping the windows closed not only helps keep pollutants out, but it will also enable the air conditioner to work efficiently. Importantly, to maximize efficiency, you will also want to set your climate controls to the recirculating air position.
On the first hot day of spring try out your car’s air conditioning. If it’s not 100%, then it’s time to have it checked. We’ve written several blogs and articles on the A/C system in your car. We’ve linked to a few of them below.
- Get Expert Auto Air Conditioning Service
- Car AC Works Sometimes? Blowing Cold Today but Warm Tomorrow?
- Why is My Car Air Conditioner Blowing Hot Air?
So, Happy Spring! Enjoy the warm weather and the great seasonal colors. Plus, make sure your car is all set to protect you from all of that pollen!
If you need A/C service for your car, and live here in the Columbia, MD area, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment.