How does outside heat affect my AC?

The last thing you want to face when you get in your car on a hot day is a faulty, broken, or failing AC. The simple truth is, the hotter it is outside, the harder you’re car’s AC system has to work. Our auto experts explain why on this blog. 

Editor’s Note: Originally published in 2013 and updated in April of 2021, our auto experts explain how outside heat affects your car’s AC and what you can do to prevent AC damage caused by the heat.  

How Does Outside Heat Affect My AC?

The hotter it is outside, the harder the air conditioning in your vehicle has to work. Rising outside temperatures put extra strain on your entire vehicle and its cooling system, from the battery and belts to hoses and fluids, requiring each part to work overtime to keep your vehicle cool. The result of extreme spikes in temperatures may even require you to replace your air filter sooner, along with other various components that ensure your car’s cabin remains comfortable.

What Can I Do to Protect My Car’s AC in The Heat?

When you’re in hotter than 95-degree weather, your AC begins to work in full capacity. When this occurs, the only thing you can do is run the AC at low speed. This helps you enjoy the benefits and comfort of your car’s AC, while easing the burden placed on your system. Other than running it low and slow, we’ve included a list of preventive maintenance you can do to ensure your car’s air conditioning system is not overworked, or at worst, completely damaged.

Some things you can do to protect your car’s AC in the heat include:

1. Professional Services – Whenever you need your car’s AC system serviced, be sure you’re taking it to a certified technician. Your automotive professional will be able to ensure you don’t have low refrigerant levels or a leak, ensuring your AC cools properly and is free of common AC problems.
2. Routine Maintenance – Scheduling regular maintenance is one of the best things you can do for your vehicle. Routine service checks will help prevent heat-related problems with your AC, battery, and other electrical systems.
3. Timing is Key – Run errands during the cooler morning or evening hours of the day. By avoiding the hottest times of the day, you’ll put less strain on your car’s AC system.
4. Check Your Levels – Make sure your engine oil is at the proper level; it serves as a lubricant and helps keep your car cool.

Make sure your car is ready to stand up to the heat. Let one of our certified technicians at Christian Brothers Automotive perform a full AC system check on your car. At Christian Brothers Automotive, our inspections include thorough service and treatment of your car’s cooling parts, including the radiator, coolant, hoses, water pump, and cooling pump, all of which play major roles in keeping your engine and car’s temperature under control.

Locate your closest Christian Brothers Automotive today by clicking here.