Ideas for Keeping a Car Cool

Keeping a car cool in the hot sun is possible.

During hot days, your car interior can easily reach temperatures greater than 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The windows on vehicles act as magnifiers of sunlight and without a way for the heat to leave the vehicle, your car gets hotter and hotter inside. Air conditioning in vehicles can take several minutes to overpower the intense heat that builds up inside. By using these ideas for keeping a car cool, you can come back from a full day of work to a naturally cool vehicle.

Windshield Shades

These handy shades fit directly into the windshield area and block or reflect the sun's rays. The shade rests against the rear-view mirror and the dashboard to provide a protective layer between the front of your car and the sun. A windshield shade keeps the car temperature at a lower level and protects the dashboard from sun damage. When using a windshield shade it is best to park facing the sun, so the sun reflects off the shade.

Park in the Shade

If you do not have a windshield shade, consider parking in a shady area to keep your car cool. Look for an area of the parking lot that will remain in the shade throughout the day. If there is no shade in the parking lot, look for an area where shade may form after the sun passes some trees. This often happens later in the afternoon and will give your car a chance to cool down before you get back to it if you are going to be parking for an entire day.

Cracking the Windows

Cracking the windows open gives the vehicle a chance to vent some of the hot air. Some people do not feel comfortable leaving their windows open a crack because of fears of vandalism or theft. This is a real fear, and cracking the windows is only a good option if it is an area where you feel comfortable leaving the windows open. Use the other ideas for keeping a car cool if this one is not an option for you.

Tinted Windows

Dark windows make it more difficult for sunlight to heat the vehicle. Many people choose to darken their windows to help keep their car cool. Visit a body shop or car customization shop to discuss any local laws concerning how dark the windows can be tinted.

Solar Ventilator

Use the sun and its heat to help keep the car cool by using a solar ventilator on your windows. This small device slides onto the top of the window; as the window rolls up the fan locks into place. The solar fan sits on the outside of the window and draws the heat out of the vehicle and exchanges it with cooler air from outside of the vehicle. The top of the fan stretches the length of the window and locks into place, preventing thieves from easily accessing the car. The fan is solar powered and legal to add to any roll-down window on a vehicle.

References

• CNN: Cooling Down Your Hot Car
• Motor Trend: Keeping Your Car Cool When the Heat is On
• About My Planet: Solar Powered Car Device Keeps You Cool
• Hillbilly Housewife: Keeping Your Car Cool in the Hot Summer Months