In many modern cars, selecting the windscreen demist function automatically activates the air conditioning. That might seem unnecessary in cold weather, especially when it is snowing outside, but there is a good reason for it.
Far from being counterintuitive, your car’s air conditioning plays an important role all year round. Here is why using it in winter actually makes more sense than you might think.
1. Clears a misted windscreen
Windscreen misting is common in colder, damper months. This happens when warm, moist air inside the car from passengers and heating meets a cold windscreen surface. The moisture in the air condenses, creating fog on the glass. Air conditioning helps solve this because it works as a dehumidifier, removing moisture from the air. This dries the cabin air and clears the windscreen more effectively. If your car does not automatically activate AC in demist mode, it is worth switching it on manually. Just adjust the temperature so the cabin does not become too cold.
2. Keeps the system healthy
Your air conditioning system relies on refrigerants and lubricating oils that circulate through the system to keep components working properly. If the system is not used for long periods, seals and components can dry out, increasing the risk of inefficiency or mechanical issues over time. Running the air con periodically during winter helps keep everything moving and reduces the chance of faults developing.
3. Supports ongoing maintenance
Air conditioning systems are not covered in a standard MOT, so they can often be overlooked. Using the system regularly helps you spot issues early, such as weak airflow, unpleasant smells, or reduced cooling performance, before they become bigger problems. This ensures your system is ready when you need it most, especially during the first warm days of the year.
4. Can save money long term
While using air conditioning in winter may feel unnecessary, neglecting it can lead to more expensive repairs later. Regular use and maintenance can be more cost-effective than dealing with issues such as gas leaks, compressor failure, or full system breakdown.
Halfords Air Con Services
At Halfords we offer a range of great air conditioning products and services to help your windscreens stay clear during the winter and your car stay cool during the summer:
- Free Air Con Check: We check the pressure of your system, your gas quantity and your refrigerant levels, all for free!
- Air Conditioning Antibacterial Clean: If your air con’s developed a nasty smell then this could indicate a build up of bacteria in the system, so get booked in for an anti-bacterial clean.
- Air Con Diagnostic: This is a thorough inspection that takes place at one of garages. We’ll check the temperature and refrigerant, and also the system for any faults or leaks using a professional nitrogen test, and then provide you with the option for a full air con service including a full re-gas/re-charge.
- Air con products: Top-up your AC, purify your system and fix leaks yourself with our range of AC-related products.
And that’s why you should definitely continue to use your AC during winter! If you’d like any further advice on all things air conditioning, then check out our Air Conditioning Buyer’s Guide or head on over to Halfords.com.
