2023-04-25 00:11:31
Although we are officially continuing in spring, temperatures and weather forecasts point to the arrival of the first heat wave of the year. That is why we must be prepared and check that the air conditioning or climate control in our car works in perfect condition, since getting behind the wheel in very hot weather increases the risk of having an accident due to the lethargy it produces.
According to some studies, a driver who travels with a temperature of about 35ºC has reflexes similar to those he would have after having drunk a couple of beers.
In theory, driving with the windows open will reduce the consumption of the car. But only in theory and under certain circumstances: If we circulate below 70 km/h. This is because with the windows open the air resistance of our car causes us to consume more energy. The vehicle is more aerodynamic with the windows closed than with them open. At more than 70 km per hour, the increase in consumption may be slightly less than or similar to that of having the air conditioning connected.
If the cooling of the air conditioning is insufficient, something is wrong. Higher fuel consumption is associated with the compressor starting often and for longer than it should. If noises are heard when turning on the air conditioning, this may indicate a fault in the compressor, in one of the fans in the passenger compartment or in the climate control controls.
Another indicator that something is happening with the car’s air conditioning is a bad smell, related to mold caused by bacteria that have grown in the system’s evaporator, or because the filter is excessively old. Also, if the windows fog up, it may be because the filter is dirty or, in the worst case, a total failure of the air conditioner.
The best solution to avoid further damage to the air conditioning is to go immediately to a specialized workshop. But we can also follow a series of indications that can help us. On the sunniest days, the vehicle should be parked in the shade if possible. Otherwise, the inside temperature may reach 60 °C.
To remove heat buildup in the vehicle, the doors should be opened for a short time before getting into the vehicle. Opening the windows or the sunroof during the first minutes of driving produces a rapid exchange of air, which means that the passenger compartment cools down more quickly.
In order to guarantee rapid cooling, it is recommended to do the first kilometers without the air at full capacity: having already started the march, we will put the air conditioning at a medium level with the windows down until we pick up speed, at which time you can go up and increase the revolutions of the air conditioning.
Orient the ventilation upwards: cold air weighs more than hot air, so by focusing the vents towards the roof the interior of the vehicle will cool down sooner and we will favor air circulation.
Also, the air conditioning should be used at other times of the year and not just in summer. Turning it on once a week for a few minutes, also in winter, ensures that it works correctly.
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