When the weather is hot and sticky, it’s tempting to leave your car windows open to let in a breeze. But is this really the best idea? In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of leaving car windows open on a hot day. By the end of this post, you will be able to make an informed decision about whether or not to crack those windows!
To answer the question of the day is it better to leave car windows open on a hot day? The answer is yes and No, Yes because it will help to circulate the air in your car and prevent stuffy conditions. No, because it can also let in too much heat and make your car unbearable.
Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of leaving your car windows open on a hot day:
Pros of leaving your car windows open on a hot day
There are a lot of benefits to leaving your car windows open on a hot day.
1. Air circulation
One of the main benefits is that it will help to circulate the air in your car and prevent stuffy conditions. When the air is circulating, it will also help to cool down your car and make it more comfortable for you to drive in.
Have you ever noticed when driving on a hot day with the windows up, how stuffy and hot and unbreathable it can get? This is because the air is not circulating and it quickly becomes stagnant. By leaving your car windows open, you will allow fresh air to come in and circulate, which will help to keep your car cool.
2. Reduce heat buildup
Another benefit of leaving your car windows open on a hot day is that it can help to reduce heat buildup. When the windows are closed, the sun’s rays can easily enter your car and make it very hot very quickly. However, when you leave the windows open, the air will be able to circulate and cool down your car before the heat has a chance to build up.
3. Prevents condensation
Another advantage of leaving your car windows open is that it can help to prevent condensation. When the air is circulating, it will help to dry up any moisture that has built up on the windows or the seats.
This can be a big problem in the summer when the windows and road are constantly being covered up and you can’t see out. By leaving the windows open, you can help to prevent this from happening and can prevent your car from being covered in condensation.
Cons of leaving your car windows open on a hot day
Even though there are some benefits to leaving your car windows open on a hot day, there are also some drawbacks that you should be aware of.
1. Letting in too much heat
One of the main disadvantages of leaving your car windows open on a hot day is that it can also let in too much heat and make your car unbearable. If the outside temperature is already hot, then leaving your car windows open will only make it hotter.
You might think that the breeze from the open window will help to cool you down, but if the air is already hot, then it will only make your car hotter and make driving uncomfortable especially if you are in a traffic jam.
2. Security concerns
Another downside of leaving your car windows open is that it can be a security risk. If you leave your car windows open, then it will be easier for someone to reach in and take things from your car or even break into your car.
It’s important to be aware of your surroundings and to make sure that you are not leaving your car in a vulnerable position when you leave the windows open. If you live in a place with high crime rates, then it might be better to leave your car windows closed for security reasons.
3. Attracting insects
Another downside of leaving your car windows open is that it can attract insects. If you are driving in the evening or at night, then there is a chance that insects will fly into your car and become a nuisance.
They can also be a distraction while you are driving and can even cause accidents if they fly into your face. If you are driving in an area with a lot of insects, then it is best to keep your car windows closed to avoid them coming into your car.
4. Less gas mileage
Another disadvantage of leaving your car windows open is that it can also lead to less gas mileage. When the windows are open, it creates drag and resistance which can lead to your car using more fuel.
When the car is using more fuel, it means that you will have to fill up your gas tank more often which can be a nuisance and can also be expensive. If you are worried about saving money on gas, then it is best to keep your car windows closed.
5. More noise
Another downside of leaving your car windows open is that it can also be quite noisy. If you are driving on the highway, then the wind noise can be quite loud and distracting. If you are trying to listen to music or talk on the phone, then it can be difficult to hear with the windows open.
It can also be dangerous if you are trying to concentrate on driving and you can’t hear what’s going on around you. If you are driving in a noisy area, then it is best to keep your car windows closed.
6. Dirt and dust
Another disadvantage is that when you leave your car windows open, it can let dirt and dust inside your car especially if you live in a place with a lot of untarred roads or going on dusty terrain.
The dirt and dust can settle on your seats, floor, and dashboard and can be difficult to clean. If you are worried about your car being dirty, then it is best to keep the windows closed. Also, this can be a problem if you have allergies. If you live in a dusty area, then it is best to keep your car windows closed to avoid the dirt and dust from coming inside your car.
7. Higher insurance premiums
Lastly, another disadvantage of leaving your car windows open is that it can also lead to higher insurance premiums. When you leave your car windows open, it makes your car more vulnerable to theft and vandalism.
This means that you are more likely to make a claim on your insurance which can lead to your premiums going up. If you are worried about your insurance premiums, then it is best to keep your car windows closed.
The Verdict
So, what’s the verdict? Is it better to leave your car windows open or closed? The answer is that it depends on the situation. If you are driving in a hot area, then it is best to keep your car windows closed to avoid making your car hotter. Also If you are driving in a dusty area, then it is also best to keep your car windows closed to avoid the dirt and dust from coming inside your car.
However, if you are driving in a cool area or in the shade, then it is okay to leave your car windows open. Ultimately, it is up to you to decide what is best for your situation.
Do you have any tips on how to keep your car cool in the summer? Share them with us in the comments!
