**Car Air Conditioning Habits Could Be Impacting Your Health – Here’s What You Need To Know**
As summer temperatures in the UK begin to climb, it’s common for drivers to seek comfort by turning up the air conditioning in their vehicles. The instant chill that fills the car might provide a welcome respite from the heat, but experts are warning that improper use of air conditioning could have hidden drawbacks for motorists’ health.
According to motoring specialists at Vertu Motors, a company well-versed in the trade of new and pre-owned cars, vans, and motorcycles, there is more to vehicle air conditioning than simple temperature control. While the primary function of these systems is to cool the air and remove excess humidity—a process particularly appreciated during sweltering journeys—there are several consequences drivers might not have considered.
Crucially, the experts note that air conditioning creates a much drier atmosphere inside the car. “It can lead to skin dehydration, chapped lips, and even brittle hair,” they explain. A climate that may feel comfortable for a short while could, over extended periods, negatively affect wellbeing, particularly for frequent drivers and those predisposed to dry skin or other sensitivities.
To prevent these problems and still make full use of your air conditioning, Vertu Motors offers practical advice. Rather than blasting the system at its highest setting, motorists are encouraged to use the recirculation mode. “This helps balance humidity levels and reduces the strain on your vehicle’s cooling system,” the company advises. Recirculating the air can also help save petrol and improve overall efficiency—a win-win situation for health, comfort, and your wallet alike.
Drivers whose cars are equipped with dual-zone climate control are urged to make use of its features thoughtfully. Adjusting settings for a milder, less direct airflow and lowering the fan speed can go a long way to keeping conditions comfortable without the risk of over-drying. For those on particularly lengthy trips, simply cracking a window to allow fresh air to mingle with the cooled interior atmosphere can naturally stabilise humidity.
Should you find yourself needing to operate the air conditioning at full power to keep cool, this may point to an underlying mechanical issue. Problems such as low refrigerant levels or clogged air filters could be making your system less effective and more taxing on both you and your car. In such cases, the recommendation is clear: seek professional maintenance and servicing promptly. Attending to these issues not only preserves comfort but supports the smooth running and longevity of your vehicle.
With the arrival of summer, Vertu Motors underscores the importance of a pre-season vehicle health check. Booking a service at your local garage can ensure your air conditioning system is performing optimally and help you avoid unpleasant surprises during heatwaves.
In related motoring news, many UK drivers remain in the dark about a significant upcoming change from the DVLA. This year, the introduction of a digital driving licence service is set to allow motorists the convenience of displaying their photocard on mobile devices, removing the necessity to carry the physical card at all times. Despite official announcements made earlier this year, a recent poll of 1,000 participants by Regtransfers revealed that 57% were unaware of the switch to digitalisation. Even so, traditional physical driving licences will still be offered for those who prefer them.
As the motoring landscape continues to evolve—whether through advances in car technology or changes to documentation—drivers are encouraged to keep up to date with best practices and industry updates. By being proactive about both health and legislation, motorists can ensure they remain comfortable, compliant, and safeguarded, both behind the wheel and beyond.