Bosch is helping automotive workshops capitalise on the huge potential of the air conditioning service market by offering complete solutions including, cabin filters, A/C service units and A/C systems training.

Recent studies have shown that 44% of adults suffer from at least one allergy, with hay fever (allergic rhinitis) affecting up to 30% of adults and 40% of children. Well maintained A/C systems tackle this issue at source by rendering allergens and bacteria harmless and Bosch can assist by offering a one-stop-shop for A/C parts, equipment and training.

Bosch FILTER+ cabin filters can cut irritation and risk for drivers and passengers with their three active layers of filtration. An anti-allergy layer with a grid structure separates pollen and silver ions to kill bacteria, an ultra-fine microfiber layer retains up to 99% of fine dust up to 2.5 micrometres and an activated-carbon layer neutralise odours and keep air smelling fresh. In addition to the valuable health benefits, FILTER+ cabin filters improve safety by reducing windscreen misting and even help to protect the A/C system itself. Bosch offers a comprehensive range of 500+ filters covering 95% of the car parc.

A recent survey showed that only 11% of drivers changed their cabin filters in the last 12 months and when matched with a recommended change annually or every 9,000 miles, the untapped sales potential is huge. Silke Walter, Bosch Product Specialist for filters, Europe North, said: “Cabin filters represent a great opportunity for workshops. They are not expensive and usually only take 10 minutes to fit. If you explain the benefits to the customer, the protection against allergies and overall improvement to air quality, they should be an easy sell.”

To ensure workshops are able to take full advantage of this opportunity, Bosch has created a poster containing all of the part numbers, fitting times and component locations for the top 100 best-selling vehicles on the market which is available from distributors or by emailing contact@uk.bosch.com

To keep A/C systems in prime working order and avoid expensive repairs, Bosch recommends A/C servicing every two years offering excellent business potential for forward-thinking workshops.

New additions to the popular Bosch ACS range of A/C service units include the ACS663 for R-1234yf and the ACS653 for R-134a. These machines boast a 90% recovery rate, giving workshops a significant return on investment on the recovered gas alone. As well as being suitable for fully automatic maintenance and repair work on all car and commercial vehicle A/C systems, the ACS663 and ACS653 are also compatible with hybrid and electric vehicles.

Bosch also offers A/C training courses, notably Air Conditioning Systems Diagnosis (VSB26) and Refrigerant Gas Handling (AC1RHA). Details can be found at www.bosch-training-solutions.com