windows vs. A/C

[DifferentPointofView]

I don't like the Tinting law in IL. I can't tint the windows I need most! the fronts!!!! I can tint the rears as dark as I want though, So when I do re-tint them (they're peeling and an awful blue color) I'm going midnight black. darker than 5% limo (2.5%VLT)

[8307c4]

As a general rule, below 55mph open windows, 55+ A/c

However, at 55+ one can also crack the windows vs. opening them completely.
Still doesn't work but so good, once the temps hit 95+ I mean...

[DifferentPointofView]

As a general rule, below 55mph open windows, 55+ A/c

If your driving a car, but some cars with larger engines A/C is better than open windows, because the A/C doesn't hit as bad as the drag coefficient hit from open windows.

Trucks, vans and SUV's take the hit real bad from open windows at 55, even at 40. I usually close the windows after I hit 35 and turn on the fan (no A/C). Even from winds blowing the vehicle backwards makes it harder to keep speed, making your vehicle a giant parachute isn't any better.

[Lazarus]

Originally Posted by DifferentPointofView

If your driving a car, but some cars with larger engines A/C is better than open windows, because the A/C doesn't hit as bad as the drag coefficient hit from open windows.

Trucks, vans and SUV's take the hit real bad from open windows at 55, even at 40. I usually close the windows after I hit 35 and turn on the fan (no A/C). Even from winds blowing the vehicle backwards makes it harder to keep speed, making your vehicle a giant parachute isn't any better.

Do any of you have a source for this AC data or is just accepted practice?

[DifferentPointofView]

Mostly practice, but I'll try and show you a source when I have time. Kinda checking in on things real fast right now

[PaleMelanesian]

If you crack your window and also crack the right rear, you get a good amount of cross-flow. It gives you much more airflow than just cracking your one window.

Also, use a windshield reflector visor when you park - the car will start out much cooler.

[Bror Jace]

When I had my '95 Civic 5spd, I took it from Albany to West Point on the NY State Thruway to play paintball. On the return trip, it got quite warm so I intermittently used the A/C ... but only when going downhill ... and downhill stretches could be quite long ... lasting a minute or two.

When climbing hills, I turned it back off. With that 1.5L, you could feel the compressor kick in and out ... an obvious difference.

[i_am_socket]

They did a segment on Mythbusters about the window vs A/C thing and came to the same conclusing with windows are better < 45 and A/C is better > 45. I currently do the front passenger & left rear crossflow, but the temps are rising... going to have to get that windshield screen.

[ebacherville]

any one know about moon roofs or sunroofs.. being more efficient than say window use?

I have a moonroof in my benz and its adds a nice breeze but not overly windy like a windows open does.. seems very efficient... it has one of those 1" deflectors in the front that pops up when it opens to deflect the air over the opening in the roof to case a draft out instead of a draft in like a windows does...