Should the Car Air Conditioner Use Internal or External Circulation in Winter?
2 Answers
In winter, the car air conditioner should use internal circulation. The function of internal circulation is to effectively and promptly prevent external dust and harmful gases from entering the vehicle, providing faster cooling and heating effects. External circulation serves to replenish fresh air, maintaining air flow between the inside and outside of the vehicle, which helps keep the cabin air clean. The car air conditioner's internal circulation is located below the front dashboard in the driver's compartment, while the external circulation is situated below the windshield on the passenger side in the engine compartment. The car air conditioner is used to regulate and control the temperature, humidity, air cleanliness, and air flow inside the vehicle cabin to an optimal state, providing a comfortable environment for passengers and reducing travel fatigue.
In winter driving, I always recommend prioritizing the use of the recirculation mode, as it quickly warms up the car interior and reduces heat loss. Especially in cold winds, getting into a warm car faster helps avoid shivering. However, don’t keep the recirculation mode on for too long, as the air inside the car can become stale, making it hard to breathe, and may also cause the windshield to fog up, blurring your vision—that’s dangerous while driving! On highways or in areas with good air quality, I often switch to the fresh air mode to let in outside air, which helps defog the windows. With less air pollution in winter, you can also breathe in fresh outdoor air, reducing the risk of carbon monoxide buildup. Remember, it’s best to switch modes or open the windows for ventilation every half hour to protect your health and enhance comfort.
