Car A/C Recirculation vs. Fresh Air Mode
Before diving deeper, let’s define what the air recirculation button looks like and how to differentiate it from the fresh air button. Most vehicles have a dash button near the A/C controls with an illustration of a car with a U-turn arrow inside it — the A/C air recirculation button. However, a similar button showing a car with the arrow going through it activates an opposite effect — it lets the fresh air in the car. Be careful not to mistake one for the other.
What Does The Recycle Air Button Do in a Car?
Does recirculating air make it colder? Yes, it can. Depending on the temperature outside your car and in the cabin, the air recirculation may reduce the cooling time and reach lower temperatures inside your car than with the fresh air mode on.
The air recirculation mode is designed to stop outside air intake through your cars vents and circulate the air inside your vehicle through the A/C instead. With this setting, your A/C cools the cabin air instead of taking in the air from outside.
Cutting off the outside air from your car helps your air conditioning system cool the cabin air faster. Instead of wasting energy to cool scorching air from outside, your A/C will continue to cool the previously chilled air inside. By recirculating the inside air, your A/C progressively makes the air colder and uses less energy. In addition, the recirculation function helps prevent outside odors from entering your car, making your ride more enjoyable.
If you switch on the air recirculation, but your INFINITI feels like its not getting cool enough, other things could be at play. For example, you may need to replace the air filter or have your refrigerant checked. You can make your A/C colder in a few ways, but if your HVAC system is due for a service, visit your local INFINITI center.
When To Use Recirculation In a Car And When Not To
Its best to use the air recirculation during the summer after turning on the air conditioning. The air circulation setting will quickly cool the interior while using less energy. In addition, your A/C system may even last longer because recirculating cold air puts less strain on it. You may get more "mileage" out of your A/C system components.
You can also use the air recirculation mode when stuck in a traffic jam to help prevent exhaust fumes from entering your car. This mode is also helpful during the allergy season if you suffer from pollen sensitivity and other seasonal allergies.
When to Avoid the Air Recirculation Setting
There are times when you shouldnt use air recirculation. While it sounds counterintuitive, using air recirculation during the winter and cold weather is generally not a good idea. You may think youll save energy by preventing the cold outside air from entering your car, but recirculating the cabin air has its cons too.
The inside air can trap humidity, increase moisture levels, and fog up your windshield in cold and wet weather. Letting in the outside air works the best. The heater core will get the air nice and warm before it reaches you, and your windows will likely defog faster.
Give Your HVAC System a Lift with INFINITI Parts & Accessories
Does your A/C need a boost before the full force of summer hits? Turn to INFINITI Parts & Accessories. We have OEM HVAC componentsOEM HVAC components that can help get your A/C back to peak condition so you can stay cool and comfortable as temperatures rise. Order the parts you need online today and visit your local INFINITI retailer for help with installation.