As another heatwave sweeps the country, people will be looking yet again for ways to keep cool. An amber warning for extreme heat has been issued for Thursday (August 11) to Sunday (August 14) in parts of England and Wales as temperatures are predicted to hit 36C.
Tuesday (August 9) saw the mercury rise into the high 20s across parts of southern and central England, hitting 30.1C in Ross-On-Wye in Herefordshire. While this heatwave won't bring the scorching 40C temperatures felt in July, it's expected to last for longer.
Summer is a busy time for most people, whether you're going on holiday, entertaining the kids or working. Many will be relying on their cars to get about, and as the heatwave hits, experts at Select Car Leasing have shared their top tip to keep your vehicle cool.
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According to the experts, the ultimate way to keep your car cool is the recirculation button on the AC unit in most vehicles. Graham Conway, managing director at Select Car Leasing, says most people are aware of the button, but don't know how best to use it.
He has revealed exactly how motorists should be using the recirculation feature to get the most from your vehicle's AC. Graham said: “The recirculation button takes the air from inside your car and circulates it around instead of pulling in fresh air from outside, working with your AC to keep you cool."
He added: "The perfect time to use this is in summer weather when the outside air is hot.” Below, Graham breaks down the four reasons why using the recirculation button is so beneficial in hot weather.
It keeps you cooler
“By keeping hot air from outside out of the car and circulating the air already in there, your car will be much cooler when driving in the baking heat. The circulation of cooler air will make the drive much easier for both the driver and passengers, especially during a long journey with children or pets in the car.”
Makes your AC unit last longer
“Since the AC doesn’t have to pull in hot air from outside, the AC unit will be working at an optimum level which allows your vehicle to get as cold as possible as quickly as possible. It reduces strain on the system, and keeps the air filters cleaner for much longer which all increases the longevity of your car.”
Stops pollution and pollen from getting in your car
“A massive bonus if you suffer from hay fever, air recirculation blocks bad toxins such as pollution, pollen and even bad smells from entering the vehicle. If you happen to be stuck in traffic next to a smelly field whilst suffering from hayfever, the button is definitely a massive convenience that’s better for your general health.”
Helps reduce fuel consumption and saves battery
“With the price of petrol and diesel higher than they’ve ever been before, everyone is looking for ways to save on fuel. In the hot weather, the air recirculation will assist the AC system which will reduce fuel consumption and also save power for the car’s battery to last longer.”
With all this in mind, pressing this mysterious button has some great benefits that are better for your car’s health and the health of everyone in the car. One other tip from Graham: “If the car has been baking in the sun, then roll the windows down, turn the AC on and get rid of the hot air in the car before switching recirculate on, otherwise you’ll be stuck with hot air being recirculated.”
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