A/C Evap Flush

[HOU34s]

This service was recommended for 24 LS during recent dealer visit. Came up as a "May require attention soon" item during inspection. Odometer was 27K then, just hit 29. Air blows cold and strong. Should I go ahead and pull trigger now? This Texas heat is no joke!

 

[Moonwink]

I've been servicing residential and commercial heating, ventilating, air conditioning and refrigeration equipment since 1966. I've never heard of an A/C Evap Flush. Refrigerant is a stable compound as long as it doesn't become contaminated. It never needs replacement.

Or are they talking about flushing the condensate (water) drain? That can get slimy and need cleaning occasionally or it will get plugged up and get your carpet wet.

 

[HOU34s]

It's listed on the estimate sheet of recommended services as A/C Evap Flush and Deodorize System for $160. On the GM inspection checklist It's referred to as Evaporative Control System.

 

[Moonwink]

The must be wanting to clean the outside surface of the evaporator coil. It sweats when it's working because it's so cold. It can collect dust and dirt and may smell musty. There's no need to worry about it as long as you change the cabin filter often enough to keep the coil clean and it cools down the inside of the car on these miserable hot days and doesn't smell. You can hang and air freshener on one of the outlets and save some money.

 

[HOU34s]

That sounds good since I just recently replaced the cabin filter. Haven't had any odor problem

 

[PoManNox]

In my opinion this recommended service is nothing more than a wallet flush. There's no way the evap core should have any type of debris buildup being such a new vehicle with a cabin air filter.

 

[HOU34s]

I appreciate your input! I don't want to throw money away. I have read that it is recommended to do this annually though. Something about preventing costly repairs down the road and keeping the A/C running smoothly. I believe I'll pass on it now. Can anyone argue for spending the $160 if the air blows strong and cold and there's no odor present?

 

[PoManNox]

I appreciate your input! I don't want to throw money away. I have read that it is recommended to do this annually though. Something about preventing costly repairs down the road and keeping the A/C running smoothly. I believe I'll pass on it now. Can anyone argue for spending the $160 if the air blows strong and cold and there's no odor present?

This is simply a dealer trying to sell services. The only thing they could do is run the system on full fan speed and spray an aerosol can of lysol or similar through the exterior cowling vents. Some of it will reach the evaporator and make things smell like the aerosol cleaner for awhile. Again, there is no way to clean the exterior of the evaporator coil other than completely remove it from the vehicle, which is a labor intensive job.

 

[HOU34s]

Gotcha, $160 is a lot for a can of Lysol!

 

[CocoaJeff]

In my opinion this recommended service is nothing more than a wallet flush. There's no way the evap core should have any type of debris buildup being such a new vehicle with a cabin air filter.

One thing that dealerships specialize in is flushing our wallets..