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6-Degree Rule and Recirculation Key to Efficient Car Air Conditioning

Limiting cabin cooling to six degrees below outdoor heat reduces the risk of circulatory stress after exiting.

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Overview

  • Experts advise opening all doors or windows before starting to let out built-up heat and then closing them before switching on air conditioning.
  • Activating the recirculation function immediately cuts off incoming warm air to speed up the cooling process.
  • Drivers should limit cabin temperatures to no more than six degrees Celsius below the outside heat and aim for 22–25 °C to avoid circulatory stress.
  • Using air conditioning on trips under 10 minutes increases wear on the compressor and seals and can raise fuel consumption by up to 4 L per 100 km.
  • Turning off the cooling function a few minutes before arrival while keeping the fan running helps dry the system and prevents bacterial growth.