There are a lot of debates on the internet. Is pineapple on pizza good or bad? Is chocolate milk a drink or a dessert? Should you put seat covers on air-conditioned seats? The answer to that last question, much like the others, is up to manufacturers’ recommendations and personal preferences. Some people will swear by seat covers and say that they can’t live without them, while others think that they are pointless and only serve to make the car hotter.
So, what’s the verdict? Can you put seat covers on air-conditioned seats? The answer is yes, but with a few caveats.
When deciding whether or not to use seat covers on your heated seats, it’s best to refer to your owner’s manual to check the manufacturer’s recommendations. Some manufacturers recommend that you avoid using seat covers on air-conditioned seats as they can interfere with the circulation of air and trap heat in the car. Additionally, some seat covers are not designed to be used on heated or air-conditioned seats, so it’s important to make sure your covers are compatible with your car.
Now that we’ve discussed the possible issues, let’s take a look at the pros and cons of using it, and then you can decide for yourself.
Pros of Putting Seat Covers on Air-Conditioned Seats
There are several advantages to using seat covers on air-conditioned seats.
- Protection against dirt
- Protection Against UV rays
- Comfort
- Aesthetics
Let’s explore these options in more detail.
1. Protection Against Dirt
First and foremost, seat belts can provide a level of protection against dirt and stains that wouldn’t be possible without them. Seat covers are relatively inexpensive to buy, so if you want to keep your car looking nice, it’s a great option.
I remember when I was a kid, my dad would always put seat covers in the car before long trips. He said it was to protect the upholstery from dirt and grime picked up along the way. It certainly worked – after all those years of car camping, our family car still looked great on the inside!
2. Protection against UV Rays
Another great benefit of using seat covers on air-conditioned seats is that they can protect against the sun’s UV rays. UV rays are powerful enough to cause discoloration and fading of the fabric. The fabric used to make these covers is designed to block out harmful UV rays and keep your interior from fading or cracking over time. Fabrics such as sheepskin and leather are great options for providing both protection and comfort.
I would also suggest you choose a seat cover that is water-resistant or waterproof for added protection against spills and other messes such as sweat.
3. Comfort
Seat covers can also provide an extra layer of comfort to your car seats. A good quality fabric or leather will be just as comfortable as the upholstery it’s covering, but without the worry of stains or fading. There are so many seat cover designs and fabrics to choose from that you can find one that fits your style perfectly. I would recommend checking out this cool leather seat cover I got from Amazon.
4. Aesthetics
Finally, seat covers can also give your vehicle a more stylish look. Whether you choose a sleek black leather or vibrant patterned fabric, it can add a personal touch to your car’s interior. Plus, seat covers are relatively inexpensive and easy to install, so you can change them up whenever you want!
There are so many patterns, colors, and textures available in the market today that you can easily find a seat cover that matches your car’s upholstery. Whether you’re looking for something subtle or something more dramatic, there’s sure to be a seat cover out there for you.
These are just a few of the advantages of using seat covers on air-conditioned seats. Of course, there are also some potential drawbacks. Keep reading to find out the cons of using seat covers on air-conditioned seats
Cons of Putting Seat Covers on Air-Conditioned Seats
Whilst there are pros to putting seat covers on air-conditioned seats, there are also a few cons that you need to consider:
- Increased temperature
- Wear and tear of Underlining Upholstery
- Decreased airflow
1. Increased Temperature
One thing to keep in mind is that seat covers can block some of the airflows from the air conditioner, resulting in an increased temperature within the car. This is especially true if you choose a material like leather or sheepskin – both of which are very insulating fabrics.
If you have ever been to a car show, you will know that the cars with the seat covers on are much hotter than those without.
I read an article where a car owner installed seat covers on his air-conditioned seats, only to find out that the temperature inside his car shot up by 5 degrees Celsius!
2. Wear and Tear of Underlining Upholstery
Another potential downside is that seat covers can cause increased wear and tear on the underlying upholstery due to movement under the cover. This is especially true for tight-fitting or elasticized covers, as they will be more likely to rub against the fabric underneath.
In addition to this, the fabric and padding used to make these covers can absorb body oils, sweat, and dirt over time. This can cause discoloration of the upholstery underneath as well as make it more difficult to clean.
3. Decreased Air Flow
Finally, using seat covers on air-conditioned seats can reduce the airflow of the air conditioner. This is because the fabric and padding used for these covers block some of the cool air from entering your vehicle. This can result in a stuffy, uncomfortable ride that is neither enjoyable nor healthy for the passengers.
These are the pros and cons of using seat covers on air-conditioned seats. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide if the benefits outweigh the drawbacks for your particular situation. If you do decide to use them, make sure you choose a material that is breathable and comfortable, so that both you and your passengers can enjoy a pleasant ride!
How to Choose the Right Material
Air-conditioned seats are a great way to keep your car cool, but you should make sure you choose the right material for your seat covers. In general, leather and sheepskin are not ideal materials as they can increase temperatures and restrict airflow.
On the other hand, breathable fabrics like cotton or canvas are much better options as they allow more air circulation and won’t trap heat.
If you’re looking for a more stylish option, there are lots of synthetic materials like polyester and nylon that are both durable and breathable. You can also look for fabrics that have ventilation channels in them to ensure good air circulation within your car.
Final Thought
No matter what material you choose, make sure it is comfortable and easy to clean, so you can keep your air-conditioned seats looking great for years to come.
By taking your time and choosing the right material, you can enjoy a cooler, more comfortable ride in your car!
If you’re still not sure which seat cover is best for you, it’s always a good idea to speak to an expert or read reviews online. That way, you’ll know exactly what to expect before making your purchase.
Good luck and happy shopping!
