The sweat you’re feeling isn’t deceiving you, and that extra perspiration means the summer heat is all too real. With record temperatures being set each year, the heat shows no signs of easing up. So, what can you do to keep your car, truck, or SUV cool? Here are some tips to help you stay cool and avoid feeling like you’re roasting in an oven.
Why Does My Car Get So Hot Inside?
The main reason your vehicle heats up so much is due to the greenhouse effect. The sun’s shortwave infrared radiation (IR) penetrates your car’s glass and becomes trapped inside, heating up the interior surfaces. These surfaces then emit longwave IR radiation, creating additional heat that cannot escape through the windows. This process also heats the air inside your car as the energy transfers to the air molecules.
When your vehicle is parked in direct sunlight, the temperature inside can rise rapidly, often reaching levels much higher than the outside temperature. The dashboard, seats, and other interior surfaces absorb the heat and radiate it back into the cabin, turning your car into a virtual oven. Understanding this phenomenon is the first step in combating the excessive heat and ensuring a more comfortable ride.
Seek Out the Shade
Start with the cost-free solution of parking in the shade. Ideally, find a spot that remains shaded for the longest time during the day. Parking in a covered structure is best, but even a tree or building can provide a cooler spot compared to direct sunlight. Be mindful of the drawbacks of parking under a tree, such as falling leaves, sap, and bird droppings. Positioning your car so the windshield and most of the glass are in the shade is ideal.
Shade not only reduces the amount of direct sunlight entering your car but also helps keep the surfaces cooler, reducing the overall heat buildup. If you can, scout for parking spots that will remain shaded throughout the day. Sometimes, parking a bit further from your destination to find a shaded spot can make a significant difference in the interior temperature of your vehicle.
Crack the Windows
Another free method to lower interior temperatures is to crack your windows slightly. However, if you don’t trust the area where you’re parked, consider other options. Even a small opening can help prevent the interior from becoming too hot, though IR rays will still heat it up. Unfortunately, cracking windows also creates an opportunity for thieves.
A better option is to crack open the sunroof, which reduces the risk of theft compared to other windows. Still, this method isn’t foolproof against a determined criminal. Additionally, leaving windows open can invite dust and pollen into your car, which may not be ideal if you have allergies. Nevertheless, the airflow can significantly reduce the stuffy and stifling heat that accumulates when your car is sealed tight.
Pre-cool Your Car
Starting your vehicle and running the A/C can help, but it won’t be at its most efficient. Running the A/C without driving consumes fuel and makes the system work harder due to limited airflow over the condenser core. To maximize cooling, ensure the interior air recirculation is on, and the windows are closed.
Some newer vehicles, particularly luxury models, allow you to program a prestart time to cool the interior before you leave. If available, this is a great option, ensuring your car is at a comfortable temperature when you get in. Always ensure your vehicle is secure by rolling up the windows and locking the doors with your keys in your pocket.
Preconditioning your car can be particularly useful if you live in an area with extreme heat. It not only makes the interior comfortable but also helps protect electronic components and upholstery from prolonged exposure to high temperatures. When using this method, be mindful of fuel consumption and try to balance comfort with efficiency.
Use a Sunshade
Now we move to the paid solutions. A simple window shade can protect your dashboard from UV rays and significantly reduce interior temperatures by blocking IR radiation. A reflective surface facing outward works well, but mylar shades offer the best protection.
You can also find shades for more than just your windshield. Some attach with suction cups, while others hook onto windows. If your car’s sun or moon roof has an old or non-functional shade, you can find inserts to block those as well. Investing in a high-quality sunshade can make a noticeable difference in the temperature inside your car, especially during peak summer months.
Sunshades not only keep your car cooler but also protect the interior from fading and cracking due to sun exposure. Consider getting custom-fit shades for all windows to maximize protection and cooling. Additionally, tinted windows can help reduce the amount of heat entering your car, though be sure to comply with local laws regarding window tinting.
Additional Tips for Keeping Your Car Cool
- Use a Solar-Powered Fan: These fans can help circulate air inside the car, reducing the buildup of hot air. They are powered by solar panels and can be a handy, eco-friendly solution to keep the interior cooler.
- Cover Your Seats: Seat covers, especially those made from breathable materials, can prevent seats from becoming scorching hot. They also protect the original upholstery from sun damage.
- Install Vent Visors: Vent visors allow you to crack your windows slightly without worrying about rain or increased wind noise. They provide ventilation while keeping the interior secure.
- Keep a Cool Towel: Store a damp towel in a cooler bag and use it to wipe down hot surfaces before getting in. This can provide immediate relief from hot seats and steering wheels.
- Park Strategically: When possible, park with the rear of your car facing the sun. This way, the front seats and steering wheel, where you need the most comfort, stay cooler.
By implementing these strategies, you can significantly reduce the heat inside your vehicle, making summer driving much more enjoyable. Stay cool and drive safely!
