Beat the Heat and Get the Most From Your Car's Air Conditioner This Summer

ATLANTA--Aug. 8, 2006--The summer heat is baking much of the country, which means that troublesome vehicle air conditioners cannot be too far behind. During a period of time when your vehicle's air conditioner is working overtime to keep your family cool during the high temperatures and humidity, it is important to understand preventive maintenance tactics and to recognize warning signs.

"Drivers generally use more than a gallon of gas per tankful in attempts to keep cool during the hottest days of summer," said Mike LaVoie, 2006 NAPA/ASE Technician of the Year and owner of LaVoie's NAPA AutoCare Center in New Hampshire. "In many cases, more energy is used to cool your car than is employed to cool your family's home. Simply by being aware of warning signs and having your vehicle serviced annually, drivers will use less fuel and keep cool this summer."

Deteriorating air conditioners generally produce warning signs that drivers should recognize and act upon:

-- Unable to cool to the desired temperature or circulates warm air

-- A musty smell produced from the vents when the air conditioner is operating

-- Water or condensation build up on the floor of the car

-- Loud noises coming from the engine or air conditioner when in use

-- Engine overheating when air conditioner is running

If drivers experience any of these problems, LaVoie recommends having the vehicle inspected as soon as possible to avoid further or more costly complications. Typically, technicians will check the coolant level, test for leaks or holes in the hoses, and inspect the air compressor's belts. They'll also be able to follow standard safety precautions that the average driver would not know.

Although most air conditioning related repairs should be left to the pros, drivers are still encouraged to follow some basic air conditioning and fuel saving tips:

-- Using windows rather than air conditioning during city or slower driving will save fuel.

-- Utilizing the air conditioner while driving at higher speeds or on the freeway will consume less fuel than if drivers leave windows down due to less drag on the car.

-- The cabins' air filter helps trap dust, pollen, smoke, and bacteria. Air filters should be replaced every 15,000 miles to avoid build up.

-- Periodically change the car's condenser. The condenser, which is in front of the radiator, collects bugs, smog, and leaves which blocks cool air from entering the car.

"By following these simple steps, watching for warning signs and servicing your vehicle annually by a licensed professional, drivers will be able to keep themselves and their passengers comfortable during the steamy days of summer," said LaVoie.

NAPA AutoCare Centers offer a preventive maintenance program that includes a complete inspection and regular monitoring of vehicle systems. Consumers can learn more about this program by contacting their local NAPA AutoCare Center.

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