What is the suitable temperature for car air conditioning in winter?
3 Answers
In winter, setting the car air conditioning to around 20 degrees Celsius is generally appropriate. A moderate indoor temperature not only benefits physical health but also prevents the air conditioning from overworking. The correct method to use car air conditioning in winter is: 1. After starting the car and waiting for 5 to 10 minutes until the water temperature reaches normal operating temperature, then turn on the car's heating system; 2. Adjust the air circulation mode to internal recirculation; 3. Switch to the heating mode (usually indicated by the red zone); 4. Set the air conditioning to a suitable fan speed and adjust the air vent direction. The functions of car air conditioning include: 1. Regulating and maintaining optimal cabin temperature, humidity, air cleanliness, and airflow; 2. Providing passengers with a comfortable environment and reducing travel fatigue; 3. Creating favorable working conditions for the driver to ensure driving safety.
During winter driving, I usually set the air conditioning between 22 to 24 degrees Celsius, which is the most comfortable range for me. When the outside temperature is low, setting it too high can make the interior overly hot, leading to drowsiness and reduced driving focus; setting it too low feels chilly. I've noticed many people only focus on heating with the AC, neglecting the importance of defogging. Using defog mode quickly solves fogging issues when they occur. Normally, combining internal and external air circulation helps - internal circulation heats up the car faster and saves some fuel, while switching to external circulation periodically refreshes the air. Everyone's preference differs - younger people might prefer just over 20 degrees, while older individuals may lean towards 25 degrees. I recommend experimenting to find your ideal setting. Additionally, a dirty cabin air filter can affect performance, so I check it regularly to maintain a clean AC system.
As an environmentally conscious driver who values fuel efficiency, I prefer to set my air conditioning temperature around 22°C. For every degree increase in temperature, the engine load rises, leading to a few percent increase in fuel consumption. I've noticed that many vehicles' automatic climate control systems are highly efficient—when set between 22-23°C and the AUTO button is pressed, the system automatically adjusts fan speed to avoid energy waste. In winter when it's cold outside, setting excessively high temperatures (above 26°C) forces the engine to work harder for heating, which is detrimental to the vehicle in the long run and increases exhaust emissions. My personal habit is to run high fan speed for a few minutes at startup to warm up the cabin, then lower the temperature for maintenance. When carrying more passengers, the temperature can be slightly reduced, but the key is finding the balance between comfort and economy. Remember, off-season AC maintenance extends its lifespan and saves on upkeep costs.
