How to Turn on the Car Air Conditioner's External Circulation?

[Cali]

Methods to activate the car air conditioner's external circulation: 1. Locate the button with a car symbol in the air conditioning control area—the button with an arrow pointing from outside to inside the car. Press this button to turn on the external circulation. 2. Some cars do not have an external circulation button but only an internal circulation button. Typically, when the light on the internal circulation button is on, it indicates internal circulation; pressing it again to turn off the light switches to external circulation. The difference between internal and external circulation: When air is drawn from outside the car, it is in external circulation mode; if the air comes from inside the car, it is in internal circulation mode. During external circulation, the blower's air duct is connected to the outside, allowing air to be drawn in from outside. In internal circulation, a flap blocks the air duct leading outside, preventing the blower from drawing in external air.

[TessaAnn]

After driving for so many years, I find turning on the car's external air circulation quite straightforward. Generally, on the air conditioning control panel in front of the driver's seat, look for a button with an icon of a small arrow pointing from outside the car to the inside. Some cars label it 'External Circulation' or 'RECIRC OFF'—just press it. I like using this feature on highways or in areas with fresh air, as it brings in outside air to prevent stuffiness inside the car, reducing dizziness on long drives. Internal circulation is more suitable for city traffic jams or dusty environments. Another benefit of external circulation is that it helps reduce windshield fogging. Pressing it before turning on the heater in winter quickly clears the fog. The button location varies slightly between car models—some place it near the steering wheel, others in the center of the panel. Checking the vehicle manual beforehand is also an option. A dirty cabin air filter can affect airflow, so I make sure to replace it annually to ensure fresh air intake. Overall, the process is simple—just try it once, and you'll get the hang of it.

[KeeganLee]

Understanding the car air conditioning system, the external circulation mode actually relies on controlling the fan to introduce outside air. The AC button usually has an icon showing arrows moving between the inside and outside of the car. Press the toggle button to activate it. For automatic AC systems, pressing the AUTO button may intelligently switch modes. I prefer using it when the air is fresh or during long drives to maintain good ventilation and reduce fatigue. The mechanism works by the fan drawing air from the front of the car or below the windshield, passing it through the filter before entering the cabin. It coordinates with the computer to automatically adjust airflow and temperature, but manual operation simply requires finding that button - simple and practical. It also helps prevent CO2 buildup and improves concentration. I recommend regular cleaning of AC ducts to extend lifespan, ensuring efficient and pollution-free operation every time you turn it on.

[MacCali]

Good visibility is essential for safe driving. Using the air conditioning's external circulation can prevent window fogging, and the operation is simple. There's an outward arrow icon or a button labeled 'External Circulation' on the air conditioning panel—just press it. I often use it on rainy, foggy days or in winter to introduce dry air and avoid fog blurring my vision. Internal circulation only recirculates the air inside the car, which can become stuffy and cause dizziness over time. When the air is good, such as on highways or in the countryside, using external circulation more often is better for healthy driving. Just make it a habit.