Optimizing Air Conditioning Performance in Your Mazda

 

The AC system requires all its components to work effectively to produce cold air, and a single failed component can mean a non-functioning AC until the problem is fixed. As your Mazda dealer, we want you to know a few signs that it’s time to visit us for some AC maintenance to keep the cold air flowing.

Signs You Need AC Maintenance at Your Mazda Dealer

Clogged Vents

If you turn on the AC and you have slight airflow even on the highest blower setting, your vents are probably clogged. Air is drawn into the AC system through a vent below your windshield. Once the air has been chilled, it’s blown into the cabin through the cabin air vents. The air that flows into the AC can also contain dirt, sand, leaves, and other debris.

Over time, these substances can build up and block the vents. Continual airflow is important when the AC is running, and the restricted airflow can damage the AC as it has to work harder than necessary. Cleaning the vents is quick; once the blockages are removed, your AC will blow cold air again.

Wet Passenger Carpet

A wet front passenger carpet is a sign there’s a blockage in your AC drainage system. Water is removed from the air before it is chilled and stored in the evaporator heater box until it drains out of your Mazda via the drain pipe. This pipe is the source of the water you’ll often see underneath your vehicle on a hot day.

Bacteria can grow and develop in the evaporator heat box when the AC is switched off over winter. The bacteria growth can block the drain pipe if it is extensive enough. If this happens, the evaporator heater box will fill with water and overflow. Since the box is positioned behind the fireboard on the front passenger side the overflowing water will soak the carpet. Our technicians fix this issue by removing the old drainpipe and installing a new one.

No Airflow

If you switch on the AC and there’s no airflow through the ducts, your AC has a problem. This issue can be caused by broken fans, a worn blower motor, or blown fuses. Our technicians will need to examine your AC to identify the cause of the problem.

The blower motor controls the fans that blow air into your cabin, and a worn motor prevents the fans from working. The AC fans are delicate and can be damaged by stones or other hard objects thrown up from the road surface. Blown fuses will prevent parts of the AC system from working until they’re replaced.

If your AC isn’t working, visit the experts at Alan Webb Mazda in Vancouver, WA.

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