Should You Use Recirculation or Fresh Air Mode for Car AC in Summer?
3 Answers
In terms of cooling efficiency, it's better to use recirculation mode for car AC in summer. Here are details about recirculation and fresh air modes: 1. Working Principle: Recirculation mode means the air inside the car is heated or cooled and then recirculated within the cabin; Fresh air mode brings outside air into the car after heating or cooling, achieving air exchange between interior and exterior. 2. Usage Methods: When initially turning on AC or heater, first activate recirculation mode to quickly cool down or warm up the cabin. After temperature stabilizes, appropriately switch to fresh air mode for ventilation. Avoid fresh air mode when outside air quality is poor (e.g., heavy traffic with exhaust fumes or underground parking). On highways, never open windows - use fresh air mode instead. When feeling stuffy inside with good outdoor air quality, immediately switch to fresh air mode for ventilation.
In summer when using the air conditioning, I often start with the recirculation mode because it quickly circulates the existing cool air inside the car, cooling down especially fast during those unbearable first few minutes after parking under the scorching sun. With recirculation on full blast for five minutes, the temperature becomes comfortable. Afterwards, I immediately switch to fresh air mode to introduce new air and prevent dizziness or window fogging - this is crucial on highways since prolonged sealing can lead to dangerous oxygen deprivation. However, when outside air is polluted, like during urban traffic jams, I temporarily use recirculation to avoid contaminants. The overall strategy is: first recirculation for cooling, then fresh air for ventilation, flexibly switching to ensure safety and comfort. Don't forget to regularly clean the AC filter to prevent bacterial growth, making summer driving more pleasant.
As a health-conscious driver, I use the air recirculation mode in summer to cool the car efficiently by preventing hot air from entering, which makes the AC work faster and saves a bit of fuel. Once the temperature is comfortable, I immediately switch to fresh air mode—a necessary step to allow fresh air circulation, avoiding CO2 buildup that can cause fatigue, especially crucial for highway driving. When outside air is polluted, like in city centers, I briefly switch back to recirculation; on clear highways, fresh air mode takes priority. This method balances efficiency and health, keeping me more alert and comfortable while driving.
