We've perhaps waited a little longer than usual, but the real heat has arrived. Even a short stop can make the car's interior scorching hot. It's impossible to do without air conditioning! But regarding car air conditioning, you might not know that "it is forbidden to keep the engine running, while the vehicle is stopped, for the purpose of keeping the air conditioning system in operation in the vehicle itself." This prohibition is stipulated in Article 157 of the Highway Code, which provides for an administrative penalty ranging from €223 to €444 in case of violation. We're talking about stopping (sosta), not temporary stopping (fermata): do you remember the difference? A temporary stop is short-lived, while stopping implies the suspension of travel for a prolonged period.
The rationale behind the rule is clear: to prevent the emission of polluting exhaust gases when the car is not in motion. An eco-driving logic, therefore, to which we want to add some tips for using air conditioning, but intelligently.
Deactivate automatic operation: we decide when to use the air conditioner. With the engine still off, open all windows or doors to create a slight natural current that will help lower the temperature slightly. When starting, turn on the fan for a couple of minutes and only then switch to the air conditioner at reduced power, gradually increasing it.
Avoid extreme solutions: the ideal cabin temperature ranges from 20 to 25 degrees Celsius. However, be careful to keep the temperature difference between the car's interior and exterior low; it's better not to exceed 6 degrees. Discomfort from thermal stress can manifest even after several hours. Pay attention to the direction of the vents: it's better to direct them towards the upper parts of the cabin for diffused ventilation.
Is the system efficient? It might be empty! Remember to check and recharge it every two years. The risk is wasting energy without any results.
