With temperatures rising across the UK, more motorists will be relying on air conditioning to stay cool on the road. However, using it incorrectly can put extra strain on the system, affecting its performance and potentially leading to costly repairs over time.
To help drivers stay comfortable this summer, Nationwide Vehicle Contracts has rounded up six simple tips for using your car's air conditioning more effectively.
Air conditioning does more than keep the cabin cool. When used correctly, it can improve comfort, help maintain visibility by reducing condensation and allow the system to operate more efficiently.
By making a few simple adjustments to how you use your air conditioning, you can reduce the unnecessary strain on the system, helping it perform at its best during periods of hot weather.
If your car has been parked in direct sunlight, the temperature inside can be much higher than outside.
Before switching on the air conditioning, open the doors or windows for a minute or two to allow the hot air to escape. This helps the system cool the cabin more quickly instead of working to lower the temperature of already overheated air.
When you first set off, it can help to leave the windows slightly open while the air conditioning starts cooling the cabin.
Keeping the windows slightly open allows hot air to escape while the air conditioning begins cooling the cabin, helping the system reach a comfortable temperature more efficiently.
Once the interior has cooled, close the windows to keep the cool air inside and allow the air conditioning to work more effectively.
Once the cabin has cooled to a comfortable temperature, switch your air conditioning to the recirculation setting.
Instead of continually cooling warm air from outside, the system recirculates the cooler air already inside the vehicle. This helps the air conditioning operate more efficiently while reducing the strain on the compressor.
It's tempting to turn the air conditioning down to its lowest setting on a hot day, but this won't cool the cabin any faster.
In reality, setting a steady temperature of around 20–22°C is usually the most effective way to stay comfortable without placing unnecessary strain on the system.
While opening the windows can be an effective way to stay cool around town, it's generally better to use the air conditioning once you're travelling at higher speeds.
On faster roads and motorways, open windows create additional aerodynamic drag, forcing the engine to work harder and potentially increasing fuel consumption. Using the air conditioning instead can help improve efficiency on longer, higher-speed journeys.
Rather than aiming the air vents directly at your face, adjust them to distribute cool air evenly throughout the cabin.
This helps maintain a more consistent temperature for everyone in the vehicle while avoiding the discomfort of cold air blowing directly onto you.
Keep Your Air Conditioning Working Efficiently
Looking after your air conditioning isn't just about staying cool during a heatwave. Using it correctly can improve comfort, reduce strain on the system and help maintain its performance over time.
By following these simple tips, you can keep your journeys more comfortable while helping your vehicle's air conditioning work as efficiently as possible.
Thinking about upgrading your car? Browse our latest car lease deals to find models equipped with modern climate control systems and the latest in-car technology.
Originally posted: 9th July 2026