To combat this widespread issue, new guidelines have been established by the VDI (Association of German Engineers) and the ZDK (German Association of the Motor Trade), focusing on the long-term provision of healthy air within vehicles.
As air conditioning systems become essential in modern driving, especially during hot weather, the importance of regular maintenance of the evaporator and cabin air filters cannot be overstated. However, many car owners neglect these crucial service intervals due to a lack of awareness, leading to potential health risks.
The newly issued guideline 6032, sheet 1, by VDI and ZDK, sets out comprehensive hygiene requirements for ventilation systems in both passenger cars and trucks. Dr. Andreas Winkens, Chair of the VDI Guidelines Committees for air hygiene in vehicles, emphasised the significance of these new standards: "In the new guideline, we have defined several parameters to ensure the air drawn into vehicles is hygienically clean. This includes the regular cleaning of air conditioning systems, timely replacement of cabin air filters, and ensuring the quality of these filters. Unfortunately, many filters are either old, heavily soiled, or incorrectly installed, allowing harmful gases and particles to infiltrate the vehicle interior, posing serious health risks. This is not an isolated issue; it affects a significant portion of the vehicles on our roads."
Dr. Winkens strongly recommends an annual replacement of cabin air filters and thorough cleaning of relevant components to prevent the buildup of microorganisms within the ventilation system. "Proper maintenance is not just a matter of comfort, but a crucial aspect of health and safety," he added.
Supporting these guidelines, David Keerl, an expert in biofunctional filter materials at Mann+Hummel highlighted the importance of using high-efficiency cabin air filters, such as the biofunctional Mann-Filter FreciousPlus. "Regular replacement of the cabin air filter, ideally once a year or every 15,000 kilometers, is essential. A high-efficiency filter like our FreciousPlus not only filters out mold, germs, bacteria, and pollen but also protects the air conditioning system from contamination, extending its lifespan and maintaining its cooling and heating capabilities," Keerl explained.
The proper functioning of a cabin air filter is critical to ensuring clean air inside the vehicle. Over time, as the filter medium becomes clogged with contaminants, it forms a "filter cake" that can harbor moisture and germs, reducing airflow and increasing the risk of accidents due to foggy or greasy windows.
