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Many drivers worry about a tire blowout on a busy highway, but don't think too much about their air conditioning system and what might happen if it fails on a hot summer day.  A breakdown on the side of the road can be dangerous, especially during rush hour around Des Moines, and a long ride on a scorching hot day with no A/C can be pretty miserable too.  Proper preventive maintenance of an air conditioning system is inexpensive and simple, while auto air conditioning repair can be very costly, and inconvenient.

We recommended having the refrigerant in the air conditioning system checked regularly to ensure it is adequate and clean. A/C systems failure often occurs because air and water have made their way into the refrigerant and can contaminate it. Air reduces the effectiveness of the refrigerant, and water can cause rust to build up on the system's components. If your refrigerant is contaminated, the system should be emptied and recharged. This will extend the life of your air conditioning system, preventing expensive repairs, and keep it running at peak performance.

Changing the cabin air filter is also an essential part of car air conditioning maintenance.  Over time dust, pollen and mold spores build up on the filter restricting airflow to the HVAC system and making it work harder.  A clogged filter also doesn’t clean the air like it should, which can cause a bad smell every time you turn on you’re A/C.

What does recharge the Air Conditioning System mean?  To recharge the a/c system means to add freon or refrigerant to the cooling system.

Where can I get A/C preventive maintenance for my vehicle?  Hilltop Tire Service in downtown, Des Moines and Johnston all have highly trained technicians that are experts on A/C repair and maintenance.

A/C Tip: Run your air conditioner every so often, even during the winter.  This circulates the lubricant to help keep the seals from drying out and cracking.

If your car A/C is blowing hot air or you have noticed a strange smell coming from the vents, schedule a vehicle A/C inspection as soon as possible.  Here at Hilltop Tire Service, our team of A/C experts can help make sure your air conditioning system keeps its cool, and you along with it!  Drive Smart, Drive Safe the Hilltop Way.