How to Keep Cool in a Car Without Using Air-Con

As Britain is basking in the heatwave, knowing how to keep cool in a car is extremely important, especially when commuting daily. The fact that the inside of a car can reach 37°C when outside is 26°C within 10 minutes is quite frankly scary, and using the air conditioning can increase fuel consumption by as much as 10%  Especially when travelling at lower speeds, the AC needs to work harder to cool the car down more quickly, which isn’t practical for any journey. So instead of using your AC during a car journey, we’ll give the best alternatives to keep cool the inside of a car during the summer.

Here are some tips you can try to help stay cool without using Air Con

Park Strategically

Whenever possible, park your car in shaded areas to reduce the amount of direct sunlight entering the vehicle. If shade is not available, consider

using a windshield sunshade to block the sun’s rays.Ventilate before entering: Open all the windows or doors for a few minutes before entering

the car. This allows hot air to escape and helps lower the initial temperature inside the vehicle.

Windscreen Sunshade

Use a reflective windshield cover: Place a reflective windshield cover on the inside of your windshield to block sunlight and prevent heat buildup.

Open Windows

Create airflow: While driving, open the windows slightly or use the ventilation system to create airflow within the car. This helps circulate the air and can make you feel cooler.However, if you’re travelling at a higher speed, for example on a motorway, it’s best to keep the AC on, as the drag that comes with the open windows will decrease your fuel efficiency.

Mini Fans

Use fans: Place battery-operated or portable fans strategically inside the car to increase air circulation. Point the fans towards yourself to create a cooling breeze. A mini solar fan is an excellent way to keep cool, as it uses renewable energy, rather than electricity like regular air conditioners. This means you’ll save both money and energy required to run a car AC.

Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, which can help regulate your body temperature and keep you feeling cooler. If you’re travelling with your pets, having cold drinks on hand is crucial. Always have cold water in a cool box, so it can stay cool for a few hours. Also, have a water bowl and regularly top it up during your journey breaks.

Stop for Breaks

If possible, make regular stops during long drives to get out of the car and cool down. Look for shaded areas or air-conditioned buildings where you can take a break and lower your body temperature.

Remember, these tips can help you stay relatively cooler in a car without air conditioning, but they may not provide the same level of comfort as an air-conditioned environment. If you’re travelling in extreme heat or experiencing discomfort. So there we have it! Instead of using your car’s air conditioning, we’ve shown you the top alternatives to help save money on fuel costs. However it’s important to prioritise your safety and find ways to cool down effectively.

Noticed issues with your air-con? Book a professional air conditioning service with us 

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