With summer days, and hopefully sunny days fast approaching, there’s nothing better than hitting the road for a family day out, a seaside escape, or a cruise through the country roads. But as the temperature rises, keeping cool in your car becomes just as important as planning your playlist or packing the snacks.
So, what is the best way to combat the sudden heatwaves on your summer drive? Is it turning on your air con or winding down the windows? We’ve broken it down with pros and cons for each, and spoken to our experts so you can decide what works best for your car, your journey, and your fuel economy.
When should you use air con?
Air Con is a quick and effective way to cool your car, especially on those scorching summer days when the interior is too hot to bear. Switching on your air con is most ideal for motorway driving, allowing you to keep your car at a comfortable temperature without worrying about the added noise or drag of open windows.
Air conditioning also helps create a quieter cabin, making conversations, listening to your favourite playlists, and taking calls much easier. Modern air con systems can also filter dust and pollen, which is a big plus for hay fever sufferers.
However, the convenience of air con comes at a cost. It draws power from your engine or battery if you drive an EV, which in turn can increase fuel consumption. This is an area to keep in mind when taking longer trips.
Book a Free Air Con Check
If you’re gearing up for summer adventures, keeping your air con in top shape should be on your to-do list. At Halfords, we’re happy to offer a free air con check at all our retail stores, helping you stay cool behind the wheel.
Our expert technicians check your vehicle’s refrigerant levels and look for any common issues that could be affecting your system’s performance. This service helps identify whether your air con just needs a simple top-up, or if it could benefit from a deeper inspection at one of our autocentres.
Is it better to roll your windows down?
Rolling down the windows offers a simple, energy-free way to cool down your car, especially when you’re driving at lower speeds around town. It’s a great option for short journeys when drag wouldn’t be much of an issue, and you can enjoy a summer breeze as you make your way to your destination.
But just like air con, there are some downsides to this option as well. At higher speeds, open windows can create aerodynamic drag, which forces your engine to work harder and use more fuel. It also tends to be noisier, resulting in not being able to hear conversations or music clearly.
Air con or windows down?
So, you might be wondering now which is better? Well, the answer is that it depends. The Society of Automotive Engineers states that rolling down your windows is the most fuel efficient, however this doesn’t consider the details of your drive from how fast you’re going to where you’re driving.
If you’re travelling at speeds under 50mph on urban or rural roads, opening the windows is usually the more economical choice. At speeds over 50mph on motorways, using the air con becomes the better option, since the drag from open windows has a greater impact on fuel efficiency.
Every car behaves differently, and factors like how much the windows are open, the air con’s power setting, and even the car’s design can all affect the outcome. Although, there’s no right answer when it comes to cooling your car. Your best bet is to base your decision on how fast you’re driving and what feels most comfortable for you and your passengers. Use open windows for slower, city driving and switch to air con when you hit the faster roads.
How to keep cool when travelling in the summer
Whether you’re heading to the coast, the countryside, or driving on the motorway towards your weekend escape, keeping cool is just one part of a comfortable journey. Parking in the shade, cracking a window slightly when parked, and opening the doors briefly before you set off can all help reduce the heat inside your car.
Don’t forget to pack plenty of water as well, staying hydrated is just as important as keeping your car cool!
Keeping your car in good condition is key to staying comfortable and efficient all summer long. If you’re planning a getaway, pop into your local Halfords before you go. From free air con checks to summer driving essentials, we’ve got everything you need to keep you cool for the summer.