High flow cabin air filter for reduced blower motor load

[2000mc]

Originally Posted by JockoT

No. But it is (and consumes power) when you choose a lower setting.

Loss seems to be more than I would have imagined.

Pulse-Width Modulated Fan Controllers for Automotive Applications | PowerGuru - Power Electronics Information Portal

[slowmover]

The filter can be removed if you're willing to clean heater core, etc every so often.

Otherwise, I'd try a K&N piece, but I don't believe it would change mpg in a meaningful fashion.

I'd be more inclined to leave stock, place on Auto, and select a temperature "less" comfortable than before. But not much.

Where I live it's AC use. So Reflectix cut to fit windows substantially deceases cool down times.

This is the path to follow: reduced use at less than perfect temps. But offset by protecting cabin from temp extremes. And better clothing choice.

[oldtamiyaphile]

Cabin filters have only been around for a short time. There are still cars being sold without any filters at all. I see no reason why you couldn't run without one at all, or if you're paranoid just a bit of flywire to catch the odd leaf that makes it far enough to get into the filter.

The smarter thing to do would be replace your resistor blower settings with a PMW controller. That's one of the many mods I have planned for my Proton. Saving ~60W from something that I almost always have on is a good idea - less heat in the cabin too.

Originally Posted by LeanBurn

K&N makes cabin filters now.

Never have to buy another cabin filter again....

If they're oiled, that seems like a bad idea. Same as why you shouldn't breath compressed shop air.

[Fingie]

i use the blower only in slower speeds, on highways i turn heater to a bit higher and let the airflow do it's job

[redpoint5]

Originally Posted by Fingie

i use the blower only in slower speeds, on highways i turn heater to a bit higher and let the airflow do it's job

If your blower speed is controlled by a knob, then it probably uses a resistor to regulate speed. The point is that considerable power is lost (~90W)when using low speeds.

I try to get by with seat heaters and whatever hot air blows in passively from the vents.

[JockoT]

We don't get it all that cold here, so I find that sufficient heat comes into the cabin, just from the flow of air due to the movement of the car. The blower only needs to be used to clear the screen, or, in the summer, to force fresh air into the car (no AC).