ou might think that setting the air conditioning or heating system would be a simple procedure, but you'd be amazed at how many cars are taken in for repairs, just because the car owners didn't have the A/C system set properly. Obviously, one of the first places to look for this information is in your owner's manual. However, there are a few tips you should be aware of that will help you get the most out of your car's A/C system. 

Adjusting the System for Optimum Performance

First, remember that warm air rises and cold air sinks. That means in most cases you'll want to use the floor vents for the heat. In the warm weather you should use the panel vents for the A/C, and you should adjust them to aim slightly upward. That way the air will circulate better and cool the passenger compartment more quickly. 

Once the temperature in the passenger compartment becomes comfortable, don’t shut the system off because you'll only have to turn it back in a few minutes. Instead, adjust the temperature slightly and lower the fan speed. That’ll keep it comfortable inside. 

To defrost or defog your windows in the winter, the defroster is a good choice. Consider that windows can become fogged on damp summer days, too. On those days, switch to the A/C, set to normal. The A/C system dries the air coming in, it and will circulate it better than the defroster. 

Don't switch to the maximum setting on the A/C to defog your windows.  That setting re-circulates the air in the passenger compartment so cool, dry air may not reach all the way to the windows. The normal setting works better. On really hot days, you may want to use the max A/C setting, On most cars max A/C shuts off any coolant flow through the heater core and recycles the air in the passenger compartment instead of trying to cool and dehumidify the outside air. However, don't leave it on max too long. Eventually, the air inside will become stuffy and can affect your concentration. Once the system has taken the edge off the heat, switch to normal.

 

Air Conditioning System Maintenance

Your car's air conditioning is the one system that probably doesn't require a lot of regular maintenance. In general, if the system's working, it’s OK. If not, it needs to be checked and repaired. 

Below are a few simple checks you can perform to keep the A/C working properly, or determine whether it needs to be serviced:         

 

Check the Condenser — That's the large heat exchanger in the front a your car, just forward of the radiator. Look at it and make sure there’s no dirt or debris blocking air flow through it. Remove any litter that's attached itself to the condenser and use a garden hose to wash away any dirt or bugs.

 

Check the Belt — With the engine off, check the compressor belt for wear and make sure it’s tight. If it's too loose or damaged, have it tightened or replaced before the summer gets into full swing.