5 Causes of Car Air Conditioning Poisoning and Their Solutions
You must have heard news about car air conditioning poisoning. This problem often occurs among drivers. The air from the AC, which should be clean and refreshing when inhaled, can actually endanger health due to contamination by substances.
So what are the causes of car air conditioning poisoning and what are the appropriate solutions to handle it?
Causes of Car Air Conditioning Poisoning
There are several factors that can cause someone to suffer from car air conditioning poisoning. The complete causes are as follows.
1. Freon Leak
Freon is the cooling material or substance in the car AC system. If freon leaks, the air inside the car cabin will be contaminated by freon and can cause poisoning symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and respiratory problems.
2. Dirty AC Filter
The AC filter is a component of the AC that functions to filter the air before it is circulated into the cabin. A dirty AC filter can cause the growth of mold, bacteria, and other microorganisms, which can trigger allergies, respiratory infections, and poisoning in drivers inhaling air from the car's AC.
3. Chemicals from Car Interior Products
Car air conditioning poisoning can also be caused by chemicals from car interior products such as air fresheners that contain carcinogenic substances like formaldehyde and phthalates, as well as interior cleaners that are contaminated with air from the AC system.
4. Air Pollution from Outside Entering the Car Cabin
When the driver opens the car windows for a long time, the potential for outside air pollution can enter the car cabin and contaminate the air inside. This air pollution can cause poisoning if mixed with the air released by the AC. This is because air pollution usually contains dust, dirt, and various pollutants that can cause allergies and respiratory infections.
5. Exhaust Gas Leak in the Engine
An engine that has a leak in the exhaust system can also cause the driver to suffer from car air conditioning poisoning. This is because the leak can enter through the car's ventilation system, and the exhaust gas contains a lot of nitrogen dioxide and carbon monoxide, which can trigger allergies, respiratory infections, and even serious poisoning.
Solutions to Overcome Car Air Conditioning Poisoning
There are several solutions to address car air conditioning poisoning that you need to know. Here are the complete solutions.
1. Regularly Check and Replace AC Freon Parts
To avoid car air conditioning poisoning, drivers should regularly check the AC freon parts for any leaks. If there is a leak, immediately replace it with new freon.
2. Regularly Check and Replace the AC Filter
The next solution to avoid car air conditioning poisoning is for drivers to routinely check the condition of the AC filter. Check whether the AC filter is still clean or if there is a buildup of dust and dirt. Inspect the AC filter at least every six months, and if it is dirty, clean it immediately. If necessary, perform filter replacement every 12,000 to 15,000 kilometers.
3. Use Safe Chemicals for Car Interior
Using safe chemicals for car interior maintenance can also prevent the risk of car air conditioning poisoning. It is advisable to use air fresheners or interior cleaners that do not contain harmful chemicals such as carcinogens.
4. Keep Car Windows Closed When Not Needed
Make sure you do not open the car windows for too long if there is no need, so that outside air pollution that could potentially cause air conditioning poisoning does not enter the cabin.
5. Regularly Service the Car
To ensure that the exhaust system in the engine does not have leaks, it is best to regularly service your car at an official Daihatsu workshop. This will not only help you avoid air conditioning poisoning but also enhance safety, security, and driving comfort.