What Mode Should the Car Air Conditioning Be Set to When Driving on the Highway?
3 Answers
When driving on the highway, it is best to use the external air circulation mode, or start with the internal circulation mode and then switch to external circulation after a while to ensure smooth air flow inside the car. Here are the details: 1. Internal Circulation: The term 'internal' refers to the air inside the car. When the internal circulation mode is activated, the air is confined within the car, and outside air cannot enter. This helps maintain a constant temperature inside the car, as internal circulation significantly reduces the frequency of air exchange between the inside and outside, thereby also lowering fuel consumption. 2. External Circulation: External circulation allows the air inside the car to exchange with the outside air, keeping the interior fresh and providing a comfortable driving experience. Breathing fresh air is also beneficial for health.
When driving on the highway, I prefer to set the air conditioning to automatic mode. Since the car experiences less wind resistance during long-distance travel, the automatic system can efficiently adjust the airflow and temperature, which not only saves fuel but also avoids wasting energy from constant manual adjustments. I usually set my desired temperature, around 24°C, and turn on the external circulation to let fresh air in. This prevents the cabin air from becoming stuffy or accumulating carbon dioxide, keeping me more alert during long drives. If the outside air quality is poor, such as when there's a lot of smoke or dust, I briefly switch to internal circulation to clean the filter before switching back. Modern cars are equipped with these features, and after trying this setup a few times, I noticed a fuel consumption reduction of about 10%, making the drive both economical and comfortable.
As someone who frequently drives on highways, I find the automatic air conditioning mode to be the most hassle-free. Setting a comfortable temperature like 22°C allows the system to automatically manage fan speed and cooling/heating, maintaining a stable and comfortable cabin environment. I always prefer using the external circulation mode to introduce fresh air, which prevents stuffiness or dizziness during long drives and reduces window fogging that can obstruct visibility. It's important not to set the temperature too low—below 20°C can significantly increase fuel consumption. I usually keep it between 22-24°C for a balance of economy and comfort. Additionally, regular filter cleaning is crucial, especially on highways where dust is prevalent, ensuring the air circulation system lasts longer. With these settings, every drive feels smooth and effortless.
