What does ECON mean in car air conditioning?
2 Answers
The ECON in car air conditioning is actually an energy-saving mode of the air conditioning system. ECON only takes effect when the air conditioning's cooling function is activated. The air conditioning compressor is driven by the engine and can consume up to 20% of the engine's power. After activating the ECON mode, the vehicle reduces the air conditioning's power while ensuring its cooling effect, thereby achieving fuel savings. The method to turn on the air conditioning's economy mode is very simple. The owner only needs to press the "Econ" button after turning on the air conditioning. When the light on the button is on, the air conditioning cooling system is turned off, and only natural air or warm air is used. Here is an introduction to the car air conditioning ECON mode: Usually, the A/C symbol in car air conditioning indicates the air conditioning is turned on or off, while ECON only takes effect when the air conditioning cooling function is activated, representing the air conditioning's economy mode. In this state, the compressor also works. Compared to the normal mode, the control point of the compressor is raised, and the compressor does not remain continuously engaged during operation. The start and stop points of the compressor are controlled by the evaporation temperature. In normal mode, the compressor's start-stop point is 2~4°C. In ECON mode, the compressor's start-stop point is 8~10°C. The lower the temperature, the longer the compressor's working time and the greater its workload. Activating the ECON mode saves the engine's power output and reduces fuel consumption. Functions of car air conditioning: Achieves cooling effects through the continuous phase change cycle of the refrigerant. Removes dust, odors, smoke, and toxic gases from the air inside the car, making the air fresher. It also humidifies the air inside the car, increasing the relative humidity. Uses the engine coolant, waste heat, or heat generated by a burner as a heat source for heating. The heater warms the air, which is then blown into the car by the blower to raise the temperature at the air outlets for heating purposes. Draws in fresh air from outside for ventilation and air exchange, which also helps prevent windshield fogging. Precautions for using air conditioning in the car: Do not set the air conditioning temperature too low. A large temperature difference between the inside and outside of the car can easily cause the driver to catch a cold, and excessively low temperatures may also pose a risk of arthritis for passengers. Control the direction of the air outlets. Based on the principle that cold air sinks and hot air rises, when using the air conditioning, set the air outlets upward when cooling and downward when heating. Do not turn on the air conditioning immediately after the car has been exposed to the sun. After the car has been exposed to the sun, the interior temperature can be very high. First, open the windows for ventilation, and then turn on the air conditioning after the hot air has been expelled.
I've been driving for over a decade, and the ECON mode in the air conditioning system is a fuel-saving assistant. It adjusts the compressor and fan to reduce energy consumption, helping you save on fuel costs. I remember during my last long-distance trip, turning on ECON on the highway reduced my average fuel consumption by nearly 10%. The comfort level only decreased slightly, with a slight increase in cabin temperature, but opening the windows or using recirculation mode could balance it out. It's suitable for stable road conditions like national highways or straight roads, not harming the engine and being environmentally friendly. It's also important to check the ECON button during regular air conditioning maintenance to avoid circuit issues affecting daily commutes. In short, it's a practical feature worth using, especially when fuel prices are rising.
