Vehicle Air Conditioner Malfunctions Surge in Summer Heat

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune - www.newsofbahrain.com

Technicians in auto electrical garages report increased vehicle air conditioner malfunctions during the summer due to higher temperatures. These malfunctions are often caused by gas leakage or issues with compressor devices.

To prevent air conditioner problems, technicians advise motorists to park their cars under a canopy or in indoor parking away from direct sunlight. They also recommend avoiding the use of the air conditioner while the vehicle is stationary for extended periods, as this can negatively impact its performance and efficiency.

Car air conditioner and electrical repair shop owners note that operating the air conditioner with open windows is improper. They also emphasise the importance of recharging the air conditioner gas at reputable garages.

Mohammed Qasim, an air conditioning technician in Isa Town, highlights the need to maintain the air conditioner by ensuring it is not run when the car is idle. He warns that sitting in a stationary car for long periods can damage the air conditioner, and running the air conditioner without the engine on is a common cause of malfunctions.

Hassan Rajab, the owner of a repair shop in Souq Waqif, confirms the availability of various types of gas in the local markets, including Japanese, Indian, Italian, American, and French. He states that these types are considered the best, with air conditioner recharges ranging from 5 to 15 Dinars.

Rajab advises vehicle owners to ensure technicians empty the old gas and withdraw air from the air conditioner before recharging, as this method is most effective. He warns that some technicians skip this step to save on gas, resulting in poor performance.

Rajab also mentions that the prices of automobile gas cylinders have remained stable over the past year. Following a 40% price increase in 2022 due to the Ukrainian-Russian crisis, an American gas cylinder now costs 66 Dinars, up from 64 Dinars for a 13-kilogram cylinder, while French and Italian gas cylinders are priced at 44 Dinars, and Indian gas cylinders at 40 Dinars.