May 23, 2008

Cost cutting measures aimed to reduce fuel consumption and reduce motoring costs may only work to make it more expensive through the onset of “Sick Car Syndrome” (no really). 

Warranty Direct, the car warranty specialists, warn drivers that curbing the use of your car’s air conditioning may result in the build up of fungal spores such as Cladosporium and Aspergillus, which multiply within a car’s ventilation while it isn’t being used.  They recommend that the system is used at least once a week to help reduce the build up of the aforementioned fungus.

Research has shown that the build up of bacteria and fungal spores can cause health problems, particularly for those already suffering from asthma, when the system is finally used again. Those without allergies may notice a damp, stale smell each time the air con is switched on and may look to change their t-shirt or socks; time for a sustained blast of the air con, maybe even a cleaner.

At the same time, failure to regularly use the air con increases the likelihood of mechanical failure. Prolonged periods of non-use can cause parts to seize or corrode.  While your manufacturer’s warranty, or one from Warranty Direct, would cover any mechanical failure they can be extremely expensive if you have no cover.  There is nothing that will cover you from an asthma inducing gust of bacteria from your air vent so it’s worth giving it a bit of a run out weekly, or investing in a cleaning solution to flush the mildew away.

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