Maintenance tips to follow in dust storm aftermath
You may have survived this weekend’s haboob, but the dust and sand may still be lingering.
Today we talked to Sergio Ceballos, a technician and family owner of Sergio’s Automotive. Ceballos says that air conditioner and engine filters can fill up with sand. He also says to look out for the car’s radiator and condenser, as they can accumulate dirt that can cause cooling and air issues.
“The best way to do it is to get a professional or someone who knows the system to rinse it out and get the dirt out of there,” said Ceballos.
The exterior of a vehicle should also be rinsed off carefully. Ceballos suggests that motorists rinse off their car before wiping it down with a rag. The leftover sand particles can scratch the paint and windows of your vehicle.
Your home air conditioner is another hot spot for trapping sand and debris. Patrick Somer, general manager at General Air and Plumbing said, “After a dust storm, you see the lines at the car wash but no one thinks about their air conditioner”. Dust particles get sucked into the air unit and can cause internal buildup.
“You can get a lot of conditions such as high pressure and over heating, and a lot of issues that cut down on the performance,” said Somer.
Your respiratory system may have also taken a toll from the sand and debris after this past weekend’s dust storm. Dr. Greg Engelien of Palm Desert reminds residents to look out for productive and persistent coughs, as this can be a sign of a respiratory infection. He also advises asthma patients to make sure that they have access to a rescue inhaler.
