Having a car is beneficial for many reasons, but it’s easy to forget that there are some costs that come with it. If you don’t have the luxury of owning a brand spanking new vehicle, you will probably run into some maintenance issues from time-to-time. The universe tends to like irony, and one of the worst things that happens is your air conditioning breaks during a Houston summer. What then? You have a couple options, but it really depends on how much cash you have on hand.
Rockin’ it AC-Free
If you’re a few paychecks away from the magic number—the cost to fix your air conditioning—there are some things you can do to survive the heat in addition to layering on the anti-perspirant.
-
Drive barefoot: It will probably feel strange, especially if you’re not a flip-flop fan. However, heat is released through the feet, and shedding shoes and socks will help keep you cooler. Hint: Flip-flops are fine too.
-
Go ahead, be a wet rag: Okay, not really. What you need is a wet rag. Place it over the middle vents and feel the cooler air blow. To bring back-ups, pack a cooler with ice, and place some wet rags in with them. Put your passenger in charge of changing your ragalicious cooling system.
-
Crack those windows: Just a little ventilation will go a long way, and keep the car from trapping all that Texas heat.
-
Get a cheesy sunshade: You’ve all seen those goofy sunshades with messages, faces and other ridiculous artwork. In the end, it will still save you, no matter how uncool it looks. If you park in the sun, the sun shade will do a great job of blocking excess heat. No use frying in a car that can’t be cooled down. Hint: If you can't take the art, you can always get a custom windshield sun shade.
-
Park and walk: If you have it in you, park a little farther away if that’s what it takes to find a spot in the shade. Shade is your friend.
-
Freeze your water: Grab a couple of plastic water bottles and stick them in the freezer. Those chunks of ice will be great for rubbing on your hot body, and drinking when it melts down. It’s a win-win.
-
Plug in the fan: You have a nice power outlet in the form of your car’s cigarette lighter. Purchase a fan that will plug into it. All you have to do is aim it directly at yourself to get some relief.
What’s Wrong with Your Air Conditioning?
Your air conditioning is made up of six parts. They are your compressor, condenser, receiver-drier, evaporator, refrigerant and thermostatic expansion valve. There are any number of things that can go wrong. If you’re a clever person with some automotive experience, you may be able to fiddle and fix. Some of the things to look for are issues at idling, like lack of airflow across the condenser, low Freon levels or overheating. Other problems that arise are a loose or broken drive belt, low refrigerant, defective or clogged expansion valve, blown fuse, leaking components, clogged condenser or evaporator or inoperative compressor. If you’re not confident in your skills, do not attempt a DIY repair.
When the Cash is In
The quickest way to get things fixed is to head to your local auto mechanic. Houston has some excellent choices. Here are a few to call to get some pricing.
- Professional Auto Repair – The Serratos family has been serving the Houston area for 30 years. They are family-owned, and their tradition is to serve their patrons with honesty and integrity. Before you know it, they’ll have you car cooled and ready to hit the road for a mini-roadtrip. Located at 9916 Honeywell Street, Houston.
- Ramy’s Garage – Ramy’s Garage lists AC as one of their top repairs. They’ve handled enough to get your ride fixed in no time. Located at 3361 Fountain View, Houston.
- RPM Automotive – The reviews on this shop are excellent, making them a stress-free choice. They work on all makes and models, giving them the experience to deal with many air conditioners. Located at 8614 Berverlyhill Road.
- Texan Auto – Let your state pride take you to this auto repair shop. They can help with maintenance and air conditioning. Cool off the summer with a fix. Located at 10011 South HWY 6, Sugar Land.
Instant fix or delayed fix, you now have ways to stay cool this summer in your ride, with or without air conditioning.
