Should You Use Internal or External Air Circulation When Running the Car AC?

[VanRichard]

When using the air conditioning, it is generally recommended to select internal air circulation, but the choice should also depend on the driving environment. Sometimes, you can directly use internal circulation, and it's advisable to alternate between the two modes. Detailed information is as follows: 1. External circulation: This mode uses a fan to draw outside air into the car, meaning there is an airflow channel between the outside and inside of the vehicle. The air blown by the fan comes from outside, so even when the fan is running, outside air continues to enter the car, replenishing the interior with fresh air. 2. Internal circulation: This mode closes the airflow channel between the inside and outside of the car. When the fan is running, no outside air enters, and the air drawn in comes solely from inside the car, creating a closed-loop airflow within the vehicle.

[OmarFitz]

When using the air conditioning while driving, I usually choose between recirculation mode or fresh air mode based on specific situations. From years of driving experience, recirculation mode recycles the air inside the car, which is particularly suitable for urban traffic congestion or polluted areas, avoiding inhaling exhaust fumes and dust, while also allowing the air conditioning to cool down faster and save fuel. However, using only recirculation mode for a long time can make the air stuffy, leading to fatigue or fogging, so I switch to fresh air mode periodically to bring in fresh air for ventilation, especially on highways or in suburban areas with good air quality. This approach not only maintains comfort inside the car but also reduces the risk of bacterial growth. The lifespan of the air conditioning system is also extended, avoiding odor problems caused by poor air circulation. Overall, flexible switching is the optimal strategy, and safe driving should never be overlooked.

[DeAbel]

As a driver who commutes through bustling city streets every day, I prioritize using the air conditioning in recirculation mode. The reason is simple: with heavy traffic and exhaust fumes in the city, the fresh air intake mode would draw in dirty air, posing health risks. By using recirculation, the cabin air is repeatedly filtered, making me feel safer and cleaner. When the air starts to feel stale after prolonged use, I briefly switch to fresh air intake for a few minutes every 30 minutes to ventilate and prevent fatigue. In cold or rainy weather, the fresh air intake mode works better to prevent fogging, ensuring clearer visibility. This habit also saves fuel, especially in summer when it cools down the cabin more efficiently. Occasionally checking the cabin air filter can extend its service life, ensuring a comfortable and worry-free drive every time.

[Arwen]

I pay close attention to health aspects, so I often use the external air circulation mode to introduce fresh air and reduce the concentration of pollutants inside the car. However, when entering industrial areas or during sandstorms, I switch to the internal circulation mode to temporarily block external impurities. Regularly replacing the air conditioning filter is crucial to prevent the accumulation of allergens. This mode switching not only protects the respiratory system but also ensures a more comfortable ride for my family and extends the efficiency of the equipment.