Which air circulation mode should be used when running the car air conditioner?
2 Answers
Car air conditioners generally have both internal and external circulation switches. When external circulation is used, the air conditioner draws air from outside the vehicle, while internal circulation recirculates the air inside the car. It is best to alternate between internal and external circulation. Here is additional information: 1. Advantages and disadvantages of internal circulation: Internal circulation can enhance the air conditioning effect by recooling the already cooled air inside the car, making the air conditioning more effective. However, prolonged use of internal circulation can reduce the air quality inside the vehicle, leading to feelings of dizziness and discomfort. 2. External circulation: External circulation should be used when the outside air is fresh and of good quality. When using the air conditioner for defrosting or defogging, external circulation must be used for it to be effective.
After driving for so many years, I usually start with the recirculation mode when turning on the air conditioning. This quickly cools down the car, especially on those scorching days when you first get in. By recirculating the interior air first, the system doesn’t have to deal with the outside heat, making cooling more efficient. However, using only recirculation isn’t ideal—over time, the air can become stuffy, potentially causing dizziness or drowsiness, so I switch to fresh air mode periodically. The fresh air mode brings in outside air, maintaining oxygen levels, which is crucial for long drives. In heavy traffic or during smoggy conditions, I rely more on recirculation to filter out pollutants; on highways, fresh air mode keeps me more alert. Remember to switch modes—this ensures a comfortable cabin environment and safer, more relaxed driving.