As the UK braces for a heatwave with temperatures expected to reach 38°C in parts of England and Wales, an expert has shared a simple 60-second trick to make car air conditioning more effective. Graham Conway, an expert from Select Car Leasing, an independent vehicle leasing broker, advised drivers on how to cool their vehicles faster amid the stifling conditions.
The Damp Cloth Method
Conway recommended grabbing a cloth from under the kitchen sink, dousing it in cold water, wringing it out, and then placing it over the car's air conditioning vents. “You'll be surprised at the difference this simple technique can make and you will feel the effect straight away,” he said. The cloth acts as a heat exchanger, cooling the air passing through the vents and making the car more comfortable from the start.
Items like dish cloths or tea towels are ideal, and drivers should place them across all vents to maximise effectiveness. For an even better result, leaving the cloth in the freezer before the journey can help, provided it is not wet when placed on the vents.
Why the Trick Works
When a car is turned on, the air conditioning system works to remove heat and moisture from inside the vehicle. However, it must work harder at startup to cool the hot air trapped inside, especially after hours in direct sunlight. “Placing a damp, cold cloth over the vents will pre-cool any air being blown in and make the effect much more immediate,” Conway explained.
Additional Tips for Efficiency
Once the air is cool, Conway advised pressing the car's recirculation button to ensure the cool air circulates inside rather than drawing in warm external air. However, he stressed that the damp cloth method is a “short-term hack.” For long-term efficiency, he recommended re-gassing the air conditioning system, which costs around £65. “This will not only make you more comfortable, it will also help save money on fuel,” he said.
Heatwave Context
The Met Office has issued Red Weather Warnings as temperatures are expected to soar, making everyday tasks like driving more tiring. This simple trick offers a quick relief for drivers, but Conway emphasised the importance of maintaining the AC system for optimal performance.
