Do you think cabin air filters should only be changed in the spring? Think again! To get rid of the pollen and dirt particles accumulated during the summer, changing it in the fall is just as crucial. Why? Let us explain.
If you ask a mechanic when's the best time to change the cabin air filter, they'll likely say springtime. After all, the filter ensures that the air conditioning works efficiently during the summer.
However, during the dry, warm months, the air is heavily saturated with pollen and pollutants. These get trapped in the filter and become much more noticeable in winter.
As a result, misted or frosted windows don't get cleared properly, the heating performance decreases, pollutant levels rise, and unpleasant odors emerge. This can be particularly bothersome during colder months when windows remain shut.
But where do these unpleasant odors come from?
They originate from the evaporator! It's a component of the air conditioning system that cools the air inside the vehicle. The closely spaced cooling fins of the evaporator condense the ambient air's moisture. This condensed water, in itself, isn't an issue. However, due to an old, heavily clogged filter that restricts airflow, there can be an increase in microbial growth. This can quickly lead to mold formation. These molds, combined with other microorganisms on the evaporator's damp surface, form living deposits, which are then smelled.
Speaking of odors: this year, MAHLE introduced the cabin air filter innovation, CareMetix®. This filter not only protects against bacteria, pollen, mold, and fine dust but also their aftermath: unpleasant smells! Offer your customers this air-freshening protection, ensuring health benefits for all passengers. For more details, visit caremetix.mahle.com. Check if CareMetix® is available for cars at your garage and locate a CareMetix® distributor nearby.