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Summer is quickly approaching in Guelph Ontario, and temperatures are steadily rising.
In just a few short weeks, your car’s air-conditioning system is going to get a workout. What many people don’t know is that there is an art to cooling your car correctly.
Our team at Car Lane Auto has compiled our top five tips for optimizing your vehicle’s air conditioning.
1. Don’t Turn on A/C before Driving
Don’t waste time and gas by letting your vehicle run before you’re ready to drive.
Unbeknownst to most, turning on your vehicle’s air conditioning in advance has counterproductive effects. Your car’s air conditioning actually functions more efficiently when you’re driving, rather than stationary. This is because the faster the engine turns, the faster the A/C compressor runs. This helps the system to cool more effectively.
If you get into your vehicle and find that the interior is very hot, turn up the fan when you start driving, and open the rear windows for a mere 10 to 20 seconds. This will help to force all of the hot air out of the cabin. Don’t open the front window, as this only moves the heat out of the front of the car and pushes it into the back.
2. Set the Temperature Low
Always set the temperature to the lowest setting possible. Instead of constantly adjusting the temperature to get your desired temperature, alter the fan as it helps to make the car’s air conditioning more efficient, to dry out the air less, and to save fuel.
Moreover, most vehicles have a similar A/C system. In the typical A/C system, the air is cooled to 38 degrees automatically. By setting the temperature higher, you are actually forcing the system to re-heat your air, thereby requiring additional system effort and burning more fuel.
3. Turn Off Recirculate
Even if you have passengers in the back seat, turn off recirculation mode.
Recirculation mode works by taking air from the front of the cabin and pulling it back through the system. This results in the air in the front of your vehicle staying cool, while the air in the back becomes stale and hot.
4. Turn Off Stop/Start
Many newer vehicles have an automatic start and stop A/C system — turn it off.
Although this feature can help to save fuel, it can also keep the car air conditioning compressor from running when it shuts the engine off. As a result, in extremely hot weather, you will begin to notice the lack of cool air very quickly. It is especially noticeable if you’re stuck at a lengthy stoplight, or in stop-and-go traffic.
5. Make Sure Your Filter’s Clean
Did you know that your car has an air filter? Most people don’t — don’t worry.
Next time you’re in your vehicle, check the air filter to make sure it’s clean. A dirty filter actively prevents optimal airflow. Both the location and process of cleaning your vehicle’s air filter varies depending on the vehicle. We suggest checking out your owner’s manual for more information.
Get the most from your vehicle’s air conditioning by following Car Lane Auto’s five simple tips. If you suspect something is wrong with your vehicle’s air conditioning, contact us today to schedule an appointment.