A car parked in the sun can quickly reach interior temperatures of 60°C.
So, as you climb into your car, especially if it is warm outside, you may be tempted to dial your air conditioning (AC) right down to make it as cool as you can.
But that is not such a good idea as it can lead to circulatory problems.
So don’t set your air conditioning at too low a temperature.
You don’t want it too cold, truly.
Even though you can usually cool your car down even further, the ideal temperature is between 22°C and 25°C.
As some places see outdoor temperatures reaching above 40°C, 25°C may sound perfect.
However, German testing organisation GTÜ advises that when outside temperatures are significantly higher, set your air conditioning to slightly higher settings too.
That will avoid you suffering a temperature shock when you get into or out of the car.
Before you drive off, start by ensuring the car is a comfy temperature, to avoid that heat causing circulatory problems or worse.
First, open all the doors and let the air circulate through the car.
If you place a sunshade on or behind the windscreen, you won’t burn your fingers on any hot surfaces.
Set your air conditioning to maximum cooling power – for a short time – immediately after starting the engine, while you press the recirculation button.
That will cool the air inside the car first, rather than letting even more warm outside air into the car straight away.
After that, however, it’s important not to set the temperature too low.
Also, avoid directing the vents straight at your body or face as that can cause muscle tension and dry out your mucous membranes, making you potentially more susceptible to catching a cold.
It’s better to ensure the airflow is distributed evenly throughout the car.
Britain’s RAC motoring association offers ways you can keep your car cool while it is parked, to try and prevent it from reaching high temperatures in the first place.
That starts with parking in the shade.
“Keeping your car out of direct sunlight is one of the best ways to keep the interior cool,” the RAC says.
Cover your seats with a blanket or jacket.
If your vehicle has leather seats, the sun can transform the surface of the seat into a hotplate.
“Keep them cool by covering them up, especially if you have to park in direct sunlight,” the RAC advises.
Drivers are also advised to leave the sunroof shut if they park the car outside in sunlight.
Beyond that, but before you set out, make sure you are carrying water and soft drinks at all times.
“Keep a spare bottle of water and one or two soft drinks in your car at all times.
“Dehydration can impact your concentration and awareness levels, presenting a danger to drivers in hot weather conditions,” say the advisers.
Drivers are also advised to keep a cool bag/box in your car to keep drinks and snacks cool in a heatwave.
That will “ensure you can properly hydrate and have a refreshing, cool snack”, says the RAC. – dpa
