Should the Internal Circulation Be Turned On When Using Air Conditioning on Long Drives?

[BrynleeLynn]

When driving on highways, it is recommended to turn on the external circulation to replenish fresh air from outside into the car. The car air conditioning is a very important comfort feature in vehicles, capable of both cooling and heating. It is used almost daily during winter and summer. Below is relevant information about car air conditioning: 1. Introduction: The car air conditioning device (air-conditioning-device), commonly referred to as car air conditioning. 2. Function: It adjusts and controls the temperature, humidity, air cleanliness, and airflow inside the car cabin to optimal conditions, providing passengers with a comfortable environment and reducing travel fatigue; it also creates favorable working conditions for the driver, serving as a crucial ventilation device for ensuring safe driving.

[DelEzra]

For long-distance driving with the AC on, I recommend using the recirculation mode more often. It helps the AC system cool down or heat up faster, saves fuel, and prevents external pollutants like exhaust fumes or dust from entering the car. This is especially reassuring when driving in traffic jams or areas with poor air quality. However, don’t keep the recirculation mode on all the time, as poor air circulation inside the car can lead to a buildup of carbon dioxide, making the driver more prone to fatigue and drowsiness, which affects safe driving. When I’m on the highway, I usually turn on recirculation for about half an hour to get the car comfortable, then switch to fresh air mode for a few minutes to ventilate. This combination is both energy-efficient and healthy. Also, remember to clean the AC filter regularly to prevent dust buildup and keep the air fresh. Safety comes first on long trips, and adjusting the circulation mode appropriately will keep you alert throughout the journey.

[Enid]

As someone who frequently takes road trips, paying attention to health is crucial. Using the air conditioner's internal circulation mode during long drives can filter out external particulate matter and protect the respiratory system, especially in urban areas or during hazy conditions. However, prolonged use of internal circulation reduces oxygen levels, allows odors and bacteria to accumulate inside the car, and over time can lead to dizziness and impaired judgment. My habit is to switch to external circulation for a few minutes every hour of internal circulation to ventilate and introduce fresh air, balancing humidity. This reduces fatigue risks while maintaining a comfortable journey. Regularly replacing the cabin air filter is also a simple yet important task—don’t overlook this small detail, as it significantly enhances the overall driving experience.

[Arlene]

If you want to save some fuel costs, using the air recirculation mode more often when running the air conditioner on long trips is quite appropriate, as it significantly reduces compressor energy consumption, especially when driving efficiently on smooth highway sections. Don't forget it also has drawbacks; continuous recirculation limits air circulation and can easily cause stuffiness. I combine it with the fresh air mode to improve comfort. During long-distance driving, use recirculation in open sections to conserve resources, and switch to fresh air when encountering polluted areas to prevent inhaling harmful substances. This simple strategy balances economy and comfort while avoiding the minor annoyance of increased fuel consumption.