Climate Control

[Guest ray52]

This year we have noticed a strange, chemical-like smell when we use the aircon. As we've not had this luxury before the C5, I don't know where to start. Our local garage is unable to help. The smell declines after about 5 minutes, or perhaps we become desensitised. Our only worry is that there may be a health issue here.

Thanks for for any suggestions.

[Johndouglas]

Maybe you need to change the filter.

[Randombloke]

I'm going to suggest that the drain from the system is blocked. Worth looking for this and checking it out.

 

I asked my local indy to check the drain when I had a couple of flaps replaced with the passenger aircon very hot fault, and they also offered an ultrasonic clean for £19.95.

 

The air con smelt very pleasant for 2 days afterwards and the smell has not returned.

 

If the air con drain is blocked then there will be no drips of water under the car when the air con is running on a hot or humid day.

[paul.h]

Have a search on this forum, this has been covered before. If it is not just the cabin pollen filter then you can get disinfecting sprays specifically for the air con to remove mould that builds up on the air con matrix behind the pollen filter. It happens on all cars, especially if the air con is switched off as the car is stopped so the matrix is left damp (condensation from the air it is cooling). It is better to knock it off a mile or so before stopping so it can dry off quicker. These sprays can cost up to about £20 but an alternative is Dettol anti bacterial surface cleanser which is non bleach, no taint, no odour (noted on the product front label so do not get the wrong one and spray bleach in the car) and about £1.80 from supermarkets. The problem with the C5 though is spraying it on the matrix since removing the filter (so it lets the spray through) then leaves a hole which needs filling if a spray is used that requires the air to be recirculated or sprayed in from the outside. You either need to fit a cover or apply the spray direct to the matrix - I have done the latter using an unused clean Hoselock garden sprayer from a garden centre. With the pollen filter removed the sprayer lance was inserted in the space and the spray directed all over the matrix and left to dry.

[Guest ray52]

Many thanks for your replies. I've ordered a pollen filter to start the ball rolling, and I'll follow through the other suggestions.