What does the ECON display on the air conditioning panel mean?

[AlexandraDella]

The ECON mode in a car's air conditioning system is a specific setting that 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. When the ECON mode is enabled, the vehicle reduces the air conditioning's power consumption while maintaining its cooling effect, thereby improving fuel efficiency. Activating the ECON mode is straightforward: after turning on the air conditioning, simply press the "Econ" button. When the button's light is on, the cooling system is turned off, and only natural or warm air is circulated. Here's an introduction to the ECON mode in car air conditioning: Typically, the A/C symbol indicates the air conditioning's on/off status, while ECON only functions when the cooling is active, representing the air conditioning's economy mode. In this mode, the compressor still operates, but compared to the normal mode, the compressor's control point is adjusted. The compressor does not remain constantly engaged; instead, its start and stop points are controlled by the evaporator temperature. In normal mode, the compressor starts and stops between 2~4°C. In ECON mode, this range is increased to 8~10°C. The lower the temperature, the longer and harder the compressor works. Enabling ECON mode reduces the engine's power output and saves fuel. Functions of the car air conditioning system: Uses a refrigerant's continuous phase change cycle to achieve cooling; Removes dust, odors, smoke, and toxic gases from the car's interior, freshening the air and increasing humidity levels; Utilizes engine coolant, waste heat, or a burner's combustion heat as a heating source. The heater warms the air, which is then blown into the cabin by a fan to raise the outlet air temperature for heating purposes; Draws in fresh outside air for ventilation and air exchange, also helping to prevent windshield fogging. Precautions for using the air conditioning in the car: Avoid setting the temperature too low. A significant difference between indoor and outdoor temperatures can easily cause the driver to catch a cold, and excessively low temperatures may increase the risk of arthritis for passengers. Adjust the air vent direction. Based on the principle that cold air sinks and warm air rises, set the vents 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 prolonged sun exposure, the interior temperature becomes very high. First, open the windows to ventilate and allow the hot air to escape before turning on the air conditioning.