Tips for Correctly Maintaining a Truck's HVAC System

As summer approaches and temperatures rise, your need to stay cool will also increase. The proper servicing and maintenance of your HVAC system will provide guaranteed longevity of your truck as well as driver comfort and productivity.

When operating in humid and hot climates, the demand you put on your air conditioning system will also increase drastically which is why servicing your HVAC system is crucial. Not only will a properly serviced HVAC system operate better, but it will also increase cooling performance, reduce the chance of odor coming from your ventilation, and will stop the potential of mold growth within your HVAC system. shoreline box

Let’s take a look at some of the main reasons why spring maintenance of your HVAC system is a benefit to not only your wallet but also to the truck and the driver.

• Efficiency: As fuel prices continue to rise, a properly maintained and lubricated HVAC system will improve not only the efficiency of your engine but also the efficiency of your driver. The less drag that is forced upon pulleys, compressors, and belts, the less your engine will have to work to turn these components ultimately resulting in better fuel efficiency.
• Reduced downtime: A neglected HVAC system will eventually lead to component failure and a complete breakdown of your HVAC system. Routine yearly maintenance of your HVAC system will reduce the likelihood of downtime for your driver and truck. By keeping the driver comfortable in a properly cooled cab, your driver will experience less fatigue and increased alertness, reducing the likelihood of an accident.
• Mold and odor prevention: In hot and humid conditions, condensation can occur within your HVAC vent system. This will result in the saturation of your filters and eventually lead to mold and bacteria growth on the filters and in the interior of your vents, potentially causing unpleasant odors and respiratory irritation, and other allergy reactions to your driver.

To increase the lifespan of your HVAC system and ensure the continued comfort and safety of your drivers, proper maintenance is a must. This maintenance should include several different services to increase the performance of your HVAC system and reduce the chances of costly truck and driver downtime. Some of the key HVAC maintenance services that should be performed regularly are:

1. Run a full system inspection: Starting with the refrigerant level, you want to ensure the system is maintaining the manufacturer's recommended amount of refrigerant. A reduced amount of refrigerant may reduce the efficiency of the system. Also, make sure to check the condition of the belts and hoses looking for signs of wear on both and any possible rub points on the hoses that could end up leaking later. Any issues found during the inspection should be addressed as soon as possible.

2. Clean the evaporator and condenser coils: This is vital to the efficient operation of a truck's HVAC system. Dirt, dust, and debris that accumulate on the condenser and coils inhibit the transfer of heat not allowing your system to cool properly. By simply keeping these clean, you will aid in the optimal performance of your system.

3. Replace clogged air filters: Over time, your air filters become clogged and need to be replaced to allow proper airflow. Not only do they collect dust, but in humid conditions, they may also become damp and harbor mold, mildew, and bacteria which could result in driver health issues, if they are exposed for long periods of time.

4. Check for proper lubrication: There are many moving parts associated with your HVAC system and maintaining proper lubrication of a truck's motors and bearings will help reduce the amount of drag, allowing for better performance.

5. Inspect all electrical components: This should be done on a regular basis to prevent a potential loss of power. Loose or damaged electrical components can decrease a truck's performance while also increasing the chances of an electrical fire happening.

6. Conduct a performance test: After completing all of the above maintenance tasks, your HVAC system should be performance tested. Make sure to also pay attention to the temperature of the air coming out of the vents to verify that it is reaching the desired temperature.

Yearly inspections of your trucks' HVAC systems will improve their performance and longevity, reduce the chance of costly downtime and improve driver comfort.