Hamburg  - Even though car air conditioners (AC) work overtime during the summer, they should also be switched on during winter to remove damp air from the cockpit and prevent the windscreen from fogging-up, manufacturers recommend.

The air in the vehicle is not only heated up, but also dried as the defrost function helps clear the windscreen. Many car heating systems automatically engage the air conditioner in the defrost position. But if the car has no automatic climate control, the

defrost position should be adjusted manually.

A car AC is basically designed to move heat from the car interior to the exterior similar to a refrigerator.

Experts at the German Hella manufacturer also point out that regular usage of the air conditioner prevents loss of refrigerant, normally a substance called R-134a, and expensive wear-and-tear costs. Running the air conditioner for several minutes every month also oils the compressor and seals.

The air conditioner should be serviced annually to keep it in good working order and increase its life span. Tubes and seals tend to become porous over time, causing the refrigerant to leak - it should be replaced every two years. (dpa)