Air con warning for motorists

Motorists are being urged to ensure their vehicle air conditioning systems are properly maintained to avoid a potential major health hazard. It is vital that air conditioning should be kept healthy to avoid causing flu-like symptoms for vehicle users.

Harmful mould and bacteria can grow in the air conditioning ducts while it is not in use and many drivers can be blissfully unaware of the dangers it can pose when switched back on.

The warning from the Good Garage Scheme has come after a study by German scientists revealed properly maintained systems can cut out more than 80 per cent of germs, fungal spores and particles from outside air, helping people with respiratory problems or allergies.
A Hannover Medical School team monitored air quality in three cars between five and ten years old that had been fitted with air conditioning. It revealed the microbiological quality of air showed "an enormous improvement," ranging from 80.5 to 88.7 per cent, when the air conditioners were on. But researchers stressed the study was carried out on cars whose air conditioners had been properly maintained and whose air filters had been changed regularly.

Fungi & Bacterial Growth

Angelo Chillari, Good Garage Scheme Administrator, said: “The latest research underpins what we have been saying for many years. A properly maintained air conditioning system will ensure that motorists can drive throughout the warmer months, safe in the knowledge they will be able to stay comfortable without potentially putting their health at risk.

“Indeed, the research from Germany suggests that well maintained air conditioning systems can actually improve the air quality in the passenger cabin of vehicles. This will no doubt be a huge benefit for motorists, particularly those with respiratory conditions, which can only be a good thing.”

“Our network of garages and workshops are committed to providing the highest standards of work to their customers. The motorists’ best interests are their priority and by using an air conditioning treatment as routine, their customers will be given peace of mind that their health is not being compromised.”