Every driver has experienced the ‘car oven’ phenomenon. You set off to work on a warm day only to realise that your low-end car lacks air conditioning. Next time you find yourself caught out in an ageing or low-cost automobile, don’t despair. Now, off course we’re total buffs when it comes to air conditioning but although it’s mightily important on a grand scale, it isn’t actually the be-all and end-all. These three tactics can help you keep the car cool, crisp, and comfortable for your commute or long distance journey.
1. Crack your windows, and crank up the fan 
Fan systems are most effective when combined with a source of fresh, cool air. For most car owners, that means a slightly opened window. Don’t open it all the way if it’s warm outside – just crack the window and let a small amount of fresh air enter the car.
2. Store ice in the car
Unfortunately, it’s not quite as easy as popping down to the supermarket and dumping ice cubes in the car. By storing a container full of ice next to your car’s ventilation system, you’ll be able to cool and humidify the air without worrying about excess gas usage. This old-fashioned air conditioning method was popular in Arizona in the mid 20th century.
3. Apply window tints
Tinted windows don’t actively cool your car, but they do cut down on the amount of sunlight that can enter. By decreasing the transparency of your windows, you’ll let less light enter the car and quickly lower the overall temperature. Be careful – some country’s ban tinted windows, or apply limits to the transparency level of the glass.
And no air conditioning maintenance costs going forward…
Tags: air conditioning, cars