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As the weather becomes colder outside, the transition from using your air conditioning to your heater in your vehicle could take you by surprise. Just how do you ensure that you are prepared for the colder periods this season? Do you understand if your heater is functioning correctly? We can help you with all your heater questions as well as repairs to ensure that your prepared for this winter season!

Did you know your car heating system works by using the excess heat that is put off from your car’s combustion process? It warms the cabin by filtering and redirecting that heat into your vehicle. Your car’s cooling system works by removing the rest of the heat that could cause damage to your engine. The heating and cooling system are made up of many different parts that are important to maintain to not only keep your car engine cool, but you and your passengers warm in freezing temperatures.

Your basic heating system is made up of:

• The heater core, which looks like a small radiator.
• The heater fan, that blows air through the heater core and into your car.
• Coolant that moves the heat around the engine.
• The radiator stores the coolant.
• Heater hoses pull the coolant and heat toward the heater core.
• A heater control valve on some models that regulates the heating system.

If you are having common heating problems in your car like: The heater blows cold or only slightly warm, the heater goes cold when the car idles, heating is sporadic, or if you feel like your heater is underperforming, there are a few things you can check yourself before heading into your mechanic.

To check your heater:

• Check your coolant levels. Low coolant is a common problem. There may not be enough coolant to transfer heat into the heater core.
• Check your heater hoses. At normal running temperature, both hoses should be hot to touch. If only one is hot, this may be a sign of blockage.
• Check your passenger side carpet for moisture. If there is a leak, this is a big indicator.

Check your heater control valve. If your car has one, it is connected to the start of the hoses. If this is disconnected or damaged, this needs to be replaced or repaired.

Additional complications might be linked to your full HVAC system and in many situations need an auto mechanics support. Call or drop by anytime with heater questions, or see our auto services area on our website to learn more and to ask for an request a quote completely online. Don't hang around until it's freezing to have your heater looked over - Stay cozy as well as comfortable this season!