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How to Get the Most Cool From Your Car Air Conditioning
On February 16, 2025 By
newsroom
Topic:
Appliance Buyers Guide
1. Don’t Precool Your Car
Why:
AC systems work more efficiently when the car is moving, as the engine drives the AC compressor faster.
What to Do:
Start driving before turning on the AC.
Open windows for 10–20 seconds to vent hot air, then close them to let the AC work.
2. Set to the Lowest Temperature
Why:
Cooling air to 38°F is standard for most systems. Setting a higher temp makes the system reheat cooled air, which wastes fuel.
What to Do:
Set the AC to its lowest temp and adjust the fan speed to control comfort.
3. Avoid Recirculation Mode
Why:
Recirculating air keeps the front seats cool but can make the back seats hot and stuffy.
What to Do:
Turn off recirculation mode when traveling with rear-seat passengers.
4. Disable Stop/Start Systems
Why:
Stop/start systems can prevent the AC compressor from running when the engine shuts off, leading to less cooling in stop-and-go traffic.
What to Do:
Turn off auto stop/start in extreme heat for consistent cooling.
5. Check Your Cabin Air Filter
Why:
A dirty filter restricts airflow, reducing the AC system's efficiency.
What to Do:
Inspect and replace your cabin air filter regularly. Many filters are accessible behind the glove box and easy to change yourself.
Bonus Tips
For Automatic Climate Control
Use it efficiently:
Set your desired temp and let the system handle adjustments for optimal cooling.
For Electric Vehicles
No worries about range:
Using AC in warm weather has minimal impact on range. Enjoy staying cool without range anxiety.
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