Which button in the car is for internal circulation and which is for external circulation?
4 Answers
A circular arrow inside the car represents internal circulation, while an arrow pointing from outside into the car indicates external circulation. Internal circulation, which does not involve external air, offers advantages such as fuel efficiency and faster cooling (or heating). External circulation can replenish fresh air inside the car even when the fan is not turned on. Internal circulation means air circulates only within the car, driven by the blower to maintain airflow inside. External circulation connects the interior with the outside environment, allowing airflow to automatically enter the car due to wind pressure while driving. When stationary, outside air can still flow through the ducts into the blower and then into the car. Car air conditioning systems generally include cooling, heating, and ventilation functions, with modes for internal and external circulation. Internal circulation is typically used during traffic jams. When cooling, it's best to start with internal circulation to lower the cabin temperature quickly, then switch to external circulation after some time. Besides cooling and maintaining air circulation inside the car, the car air conditioning system also helps defog windows in winter or humid conditions when fogging can obstruct the driver's view. Pressing the AC button activates the defogging function, effectively solving the issue of fogged windows.
I found it quite easy to distinguish between the recirculation and fresh air buttons. The recirculation button is the one with a car outline and a rotating arrow inside, meaning it circulates the air inside the car. The fresh air button, on the other hand, has an icon showing arrows pointing into the car from outside, symbolizing drawing fresh air from outside. Having driven for six or seven years, I often use recirculation mode to block exhaust fumes in traffic or to cool down quickly with AC, but I don't keep it on all the time to avoid stuffy air. I use fresh air mode in areas with good air quality, like during countryside drives—it really refreshes you. These buttons are usually near the AC panel and are easy to recognize by their icons. Some cars label recirculation as 'REC.' Remember to regularly switch to fresh air mode for ventilation, especially when carrying family members, to maintain air quality. Keeping a damp towel in the car can also help prevent window fogging.
I figured out these two buttons through actual driving habits. The recirculation button is marked with a car interior and a circular arrow, indicating the reuse of air inside the car. The fresh air button has an intake arrow from outside the car, bringing in fresh air. They are commonly used in specific scenarios: I always turn on recirculation in traffic jams to block dust and exhaust fumes; on highways, I use fresh air for ventilation, especially during long drives. The buttons are located in the air conditioning control area with clear icons, and they become handy once you get used to them. Early on, I once made a mistake, causing the windows to fog up. Later, I learned: in cold winters, first turn on recirculation to prevent moisture, then switch to fresh air for ventilation. This feature is quite practical and works better with clean air conditioning filters. After smoking in the car, I turn on fresh air to remove the smoke smell and maintain clear visibility.
It took me some time to distinguish them too. The recirculation button usually has a small car icon with a circular arrow inside, meaning it prevents outside air from entering. The fresh air mode shows an arrow outside the car pointing inward, actively drawing air in. Here's a mnemonic: the recirculation icon looks like a closed door, while fresh air resembles an open window. These buttons are easily found on the climate control panel. Use recirculation during rainy or hazy days to prevent fogging or inhaling polluted air. Normally use fresh air for ventilation, especially when starting the car in a garage. Don't forget to switch modes - prolonged recirculation might cause dizziness. The buttons are straightforward to operate; pressing the wrong one doesn't matter as you can always correct it immediately.
