Should the Car Air Conditioner Use External or Internal Circulation?
3 Answers
Car air conditioners should alternate between external and internal circulation. Using internal circulation with the air conditioner can quickly cool down the car interior, block harmful external gases, and prevent outside air from entering the cabin. However, exhaust gases inside the car will still be expelled through the vents. At this point, switching to external circulation allows fresh air to quickly enter the vehicle. A car air conditioner refers to the air conditioning unit installed in automobiles, capable of cooling, heating, ventilating, and purifying the air inside the cabin to provide a comfortable environment for passengers, reduce driver fatigue, and enhance driving safety. Typically, car air conditioners include cooling devices, heating devices, and ventilation systems. This integrated system makes efficient use of the limited space inside the vehicle, featuring a simple structure and easy operation.
I commute by car daily and particularly prefer using the recirculation mode in congested urban areas. This effectively blocks exhaust fumes and dust from outside vehicles, keeping the interior air clean and fresh. However, once on the highway or when the air is fresh, I switch to the fresh air mode for a few minutes to prevent drowsiness caused by CO₂ buildup inside the car. I remember once forgetting to switch modes during rush hour traffic and feeling unwell from inhaling too much smoke; since then, I’ve made it a habit to toggle based on road conditions, which keeps me much more alert. Although automatic air conditioning is convenient, manual control offers greater flexibility to match my rhythm—after all, health comes first.
From a health perspective, I am very cautious about air recirculation. Due to my sensitivity to air pollution, during pollen season or urban haze days, I strictly use the internal circulation mode to prevent allergens and harmful particles from entering the cabin. However, when air quality is good, I briefly switch to external circulation for ventilation, alternating every hour of driving to ensure fresh air intake. This prevents hypoxia and dizziness caused by prolonged internal circulation, and works even better when combined with the car's air purifier. Paying attention to these small details during daily driving can significantly improve respiratory comfort.
