A number of modern systems, which are developed by engineers of large automakers, are designed to create the most comfortable conditions in the car interior - for example, maintain optimal air temperature. A striking example of such useful equipment is the climate control system.
Climate control: definition and purpose
This is complex equipment that includes air conditioning, temperature and humidity sensors, a heater, an electronic control unit and a filtration system. The main goal of the climate system is to create a microclimate in the car interior that is comfortable for the driver and passengers, as well as to maintain it. The following conditions are considered suitable for humans: temperature – from +22 to +25°С, humidity – from 65 to 80%. Climate control analyzes these indicators and then heats the air in the cabin (using a stove) or, on the contrary, reduces its temperature (thanks to air conditioning).
Is it possible to install an additional climate system?
In almost all modern cars, climate control is included in the list of basic equipment. This system is equipped with various types of vehicles - from cars and buses to self-propelled vehicles and special equipment.
You can install the system additionally - as a rule, many car enthusiasts refuse air conditioning in favor of it. However, it should be remembered that installing climate control is not possible on all cars, because this requires a stove of a certain configuration that would allow the installation of a servo drive and wiring under the “dashboard”.
Differences between climate control and air conditioning
- Functional. Climate control is capable of maintaining a constant temperature in automatic mode. A conventional air conditioner is designed only to cool the air, and to heat it, you need to turn on the stove. The operating principle of the air conditioner is also different: first it takes in air, dries it, and then heats or cools it.
In addition, modern models of climate systems provide adjustment, which will prevent you from catching a cold. This is especially important if you often carry babies. Air conditioners do not have such capabilities.
- Design. Climate control is a more complex system than air conditioning. Thanks to sensors, the installation is capable of analyzing parameters such as temperature and humidity, and the most advanced models can also take into account other indicators: for example, temperature outside the car, etc.
- Control. The climate system is equipped with an electronic control unit. This provides a significant advantage, since the car owner only needs to configure the system once – it will maintain a stable temperature regime on its own. In a car without climate control, the driver will have to constantly be distracted to adjust the heater and air conditioning.
How does the system work?
Despite the complexity of the mechanism, the principle of its operation is quite simple:
- Sensors set the temperature outside the car and inside the car.
- The fan takes air from outside and delivers it to the cabin. Subsequently, the flow is divided into 2 parts: the first goes to the stove, the second goes to the air conditioner evaporator.
- The air flows coming out of the heat exchangers are mixed and enter the car interior thanks to a system of deflectors and air ducts.
You can regulate the temperature by changing the position of the central and additional curtains, which are located on the climate control panel.
How to use the system?
First you need to activate the system - this is the button ON/OFF(in some car models, instead of an inscription, there is an image of a broken circle on it). To set the desired temperature, use the buttons or the rotary control. In most installations, the adjustment step is 0.5 degrees. The maximum difference between zones usually does not exceed 5°. If a comfortable temperature is set, press the button AUTO– the system will support it automatically.
Special buttons will help you adjust the air direction, each of which corresponds to a specific mode: blowing the legs, windshield or head and legs. These 3 modes are considered standard, but there are additional ones:
- Blowing warm air across the windshield, as well as the lower area of the cabin.
- Blowing windshield to prevent condensation.
- Supplying air to specific parts of the body and head or combinations thereof.
- Manual climate control mode.
- Recycle.
To take into account all the nuances of operating the installation in your car, carefully study the technical documentation.
Operation of climate control in cold weather
in winter The air conditioner is used primarily to heat the outside air. In these conditions, a stove will be enough for you.
In a situation where zero temperature is combined with high humidity and supplemented by snow and rain, you will need the full potential of the system - it should be switched to automatic mode. Air conditioning will help remove excess moisture.
Types of climate control- The most primitive type of system is single-zone climate control. As the name implies, the equipment is capable of maintaining a microclimate in one zone in which the driver and front passenger are located.
- Dual zoneclimate control monitors the indicators separately for the driver and the front passenger. This is convenient because all people have different ideas about a comfortable temperature.
- Three- and four-zone equipment allows you to adjust the temperature “to suit yourself” also for rear passengers.
2-, 3- and 4-zone installations are combined into one group - multi-zone climate control.
Pros and cons of the system
The advantages of climate control include:
- Creating favorable conditions for people inside the car. With such equipment, both a trip to the office or supermarket and a long trip to another city or even country will be as comfortable as possible.
- The ability of the system to automatically maintain set modes, that is, without driver involvement.
- A large number of adjustments.
- Simple interface, as well as clear system management.
It is also important that the driver, who is in comfortable conditions (he does not freeze and is not hot), can fully concentrate on driving. This increases the level of safety of vehicle operation.
However, car enthusiasts have identified a number of disadvantages:
- The presence of climate control increases the cost of the car.
- Maintenance and repair of equipment are expensive.
- When the system is fully used, fuel consumption increases.
- In the event of a breakdown, you will not be able to repair the system yourself.
You learned the difference between an air conditioner and a modern climate system, and also analyzed the pros and cons of installing the equipment. If you nevertheless made a choice in favor of maximum comfort, then do not forget about caring for the climate control: the system must be cleaned regularly. In this case, it will delight you with long, uninterrupted operation.
There were times when it never occurred to car enthusiasts that a car could have such a useful device as an air conditioner: it’s hot - you open the window and there are no problems. But thanks to modern technologies, the level of comfort when moving a vehicle has increased significantly, and the equipment of cars produced today is no longer limited to just air conditioning. New to our generation is another device called “climate control.” At first glance, its functions are not much different from the mentioned air conditioner, but still there are differences, and we will now see this.
1. Definition of concepts
A car air conditioner, just like a similar household device, was created to cool the air, but only inside the vehicle. This device is presented in the form of a complex closed system, where forced circulation of refrigerant helps remove heat from the inside of the car. The performance of such an air conditioner is determined by the operation of the car engine.
The main purpose of any car air conditioner is to “expel” heat from the passenger compartment faster than it will enter there from the external environment and settle inside. Sources of heat flows can be direct sunlight, warm summer wind, heat from hot asphalt, etc. The peculiarity of heat is the direction of its movement, because it always flows from hot to cold and does not return back.
Unlike an air conditioner, a car's climate control system is capable of maintaining a set air temperature in the cabin. The components of this system are the air conditioner itself, the heating system, the filtration system, special sensors located in different places and, of course,. In the most advanced cars equipped with a climate control system, not only temperature indicators are taken into account, but also daylight illumination of the interior, which automatically increases the level of comfort of the people inside. Moreover, even at low ambient temperatures, in addition to the heating system, the air conditioner can also operate, which protects the glass from fogging. Before letting air into the cabin, the climate control system filters it, and if it is very dirty, automatic recirculation is activated.
In addition to the standard system, there is also the so-called "multi-zone climate control", which differs from the usual one in its ability to set different temperature conditions for passengers and for the driver. Depending on the number of service zones, two-zone (the driver and his neighbor), three- and four-zone (passengers in the rear seats have their own control panel) systems are distinguished.
2. How does air conditioning work and how does it differ from “climate control” activities?
Usually, The car's climate control is capable of maintaining the temperature in the cabin at 16-30°C, and the specific temperature value is set by the driver using special regulators located on the dashboard. The signal from the regulators is transmitted to the electronic control unit, where it activates the corresponding program. Taking into account the established algorithm, the control unit processes the sent sensor signals and turns on the necessary actuators, and the set temperature values are maintained automatically.
The air flows entering the car first pass through the heating system and are heated by the heat of the coolant. The heating level is controlled by a central temperature control valve by mixing cold and hot flows. If necessary, the air conditioner can be activated to remove excess heat and moisture from the interior.
The simplest car climate control system is based on the principle of creating the same temperature for the entire interior space of the car. This scheme is called a single-zone microclimate system. However, this is not the only possible option, and if you wish, you can choose a car with more complex schemes: two, three, or four-zone climate control systems. Let's look at their work process in a little more detail.
Multi-zone climate control is presented in the form of a system that provides and maintains different temperatures in different zones of the cabin, that is, in individual seats. The most common among such schemes is a two-zone climate control option, which allows for different temperature settings in the area of the driver’s seat and in the area of the seat of his neighbor – the front passenger. The peculiarity of this system is to limit the maximum temperature difference between adjacent zones. As a rule, it does not exceed 6°C, that is, if the driver has set his temperature to 30°C, then the passenger will not be able to set the value below 24°C.
The three-zone version of the system makes it possible to set different temperature conditions in three zones at once: the driver's area, the front passenger area and the rear seat area. However, the most advanced version of the climate control system is considered to be a four-zone scheme, which allows you to set an individual temperature in the area of each seat. Taking into account the fact that the average personal car is rarely fully loaded, the 3- and 4-zone schemes are practically not used to their full potential, and therefore are redundant. These variations contain the same restrictions on the temperature gradient of neighboring zones as in dual-zone climate control.
Multi-zone systems always require more dampers, ducts and sensors, which are controlled by a separate controller. As for a car air conditioner, the principle of its operation largely coincides with the operating principle of a household refrigerator, but their design is, of course, different. A car air conditioner is a sealed system, inside of which there is freon with a special refrigeration oil dissolved in it, which is not afraid of low temperatures. This oil is used as a lubricant for the entire system.
Despite some differences between air conditioners from different manufacturers, their basic operating diagram is the same for all. Let's look at the operating principle of the most common version of such a system. So, by pressing the air conditioning button, the driver causes the electromagnetic clutch to operate, after which the steel pressure disk is magnetized to the pulley. The pulley is driven by a belt, and if the air conditioner is turned off, it will rotate idle.
Next, it comes into operation, which compresses the gaseous freon, promoting its strong heating, and drives the hot substance into the condenser (the device is also called an “air conditioner radiator”), where the heated and compressed freon is slightly cooled. An important role in this is played by the fan, which turns on simultaneously with the compressor. If the car is moving, it’s even better, because the condenser is additionally blown by a counter flow of air. After cooling, the compressed freon condenses, and its liquid form comes out of the condenser. Flowing through the receiver-dryer, freon gets rid of compressor wear products and other dirt.
Somewhere next to such a muffler (and sometimes on it itself) there is an inspection eye through which you can visually assess the level of fullness of the system. True, not all cars have such a device.
After cleaning, liquid freon is directed towards the car interior, where it should perform its main function. The culmination of the process occurs when the substance passes through a thermostatic valve installed on the pipeline (it is through this that the freon enters the evaporator). If the evaporator is completely filled with the incoming liquid, then saturated steam with a temperature equal to the boiling point will begin to emerge from it.
In the case when the temperature of the steam leaving the evaporator exceeds the heating of the thermostatic valve installation, its control element opens exactly as much as necessary to ensure that its flow area meets the permissible value. In essence, a thermostatic valve is a throttle whose adjustment is automatic. Without going into the intricacies of thermodynamics, the expansion valve is very similar to the nozzle of an aerosol can.
As it passes through the valve and enters the evaporator, freon passes from a liquid state to a gaseous state, and at the same time it is greatly cooled. Cold freon cools the evaporator (small radiator), and the fan transfers this cold from the evaporator to the vehicle interior. At the exit from the evaporator, freon, which retains a certain amount of cold, again enters the compressor, and the circle is closed.
3. Climate control and air conditioning - the main differences
“Climate control” is practically the same air conditioner, only automatic. However, it should be noted that in the case of an automatic climate control system, you have to deal with a combined unit, which, in addition to the cooling function, also serves as a car heater. Simply put, the cabin temperature can be adjusted in two directions: either it will decrease or increase, heating the space. The climate control system reads information about the temperature state of the cabin from sensors located inside the car. That is, the driver himself sets the temperature range he needs and saves the data in the device’s memory, after which the system can independently monitor the slightest changes in temperature values, monitoring their stay within the established limits.
From a design point of view, the main distinguishing feature of the climate control system is the presence of an electronic control unit, which is also called the “brains” of the entire unit. It is he who perceives and processes the information sent by the sensors. This is data on temperature, humidity, pressure, both inside the cabin and outside the car.
In a separate order, it is worth mentioning the advantages of the climate system over a conventional car air conditioner. Thus, the driver will not need to listen to his feelings and try to determine the temperature in the cabin at random; the ECU will do this for him, the quick response of which will allow him to fully concentrate on the driving process, without being distracted by controlling the controls. In addition, by turning off the interior heating in a timely manner, it is possible to save some fuel.
If there is something that doesn’t suit you about the overall system, then when purchasing a vehicle you should pay attention to cars with a separate climate control system. Another positive feature of the activity of the described node is its “smart” behavior in winter. By analyzing low temperatures outside the window, and taking into account the possibility of glass freezing, the electronic control unit is able to independently control air flows: first, warm air is directed to the windows, and they thaw, and then, as the engine warms up, the lower part of the seat area begins to heat up.
Lastly, warm air currents are directed to the driver’s face, which, in driving conditions, is considered the most suitable part for taking such baths. However, not all climate systems have such functions, and many manufacturers provide the opportunity to independently configure their operating algorithm, including the sequence of heating parts of the cabin in the cold season.
Unlike the climate control system, a regular standard air conditioner is much simpler. Even a beginner can operate it, because everything is done manually. As a rule, for this purpose, on the car dashboard there are: a compressor control button (“A/C”), a temperature regulator with red and blue zones, a fan speed switch and a lever for distributing air flows throughout the cabin (bottom, top, center). Of course, when the car is moving, it is extremely inconvenient to monitor all this, and stopping every time simply makes no sense. True, in addition to mechanical control, presented in the form of knobs with static scales, the air conditioner can also have electronic controls with liquid crystal displays and proprietary manipulators.
In the case of climate control, the easiest way is to trust the “Auto” mode, which, based on the data received, organizes the operation of the system in such a way that the result fully satisfies the wishes of the car owner. All that is required of you is simply to set the required temperature value on the unit’s display, and the “climate” will do the rest itself. With separate climate control, data is set for each individual zone in turn: first for passengers in the front seats, and then for their neighbors in the “gallery”.
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Driving a car can be equated to a stressful situation, but the driver, in order to maintain road safety, must be completely focused on driving. At the same time, the microclimate in the cabin is an important factor for ensuring good health, and therefore helps reduce tension.
Therefore, for comfortable and safe trips, many car manufacturers equip their cars with an option such as climate control.
What is climate control?
Climate control is a modern high-tech system consisting of many interconnected components responsible for ensuring a favorable environment inside the car.
In general terms, it allows you to set, and subsequently maintain, the required air temperature, which will be the most comfortable for the driver and his passengers.
Principle of operation
The operation of climate control is quite simple. It is directly connected to the air conditioning and heating system in the cabin. To take temperature readings, various sensors are used, which transmit the received data to the electronic control unit.
It, in turn, depending on the algorithm (or program) stored in its memory, then transmits commands to various executive devices. For example, when the temperature in the cabin rises, the control unit will send a signal to the temperature damper, which will add a little more cold air to mix with hot air, resulting in the temperature normalizing to the specified limits.
All this adjustment and readings from sensors occurs automatically; the driver (or passenger) just needs to set the desired temperature on the control panel, and the system will perform the rest of the actions itself.
Components
The climate control system itself consists of the following parts:
Difference from air conditioner
Some car enthusiasts confuse climate control with an air conditioning system. It should be noted that a car can be equipped with air conditioning without climate control, but a car that is equipped with a climate control system will definitely contain air conditioning.
In a car, it works exactly the same as a regular indoor unit, on the principle of a refrigerator.
The main functions of an air conditioner in a car:
- cooling the air entering the cabin;
- air recirculation;
- dehumidification of air, removal of excess moisture from it.
The main difference between air conditioning and climate control systems is the ability to maintain a set temperature. In cold weather, the climate control works in conjunction with the air conditioning, drying the air in the cabin to prevent the windows from fogging up.
Advantages and disadvantages
The main advantage of climate control over air conditioning is that it creates a favorable microclimate inside the car. If the air conditioner simply cools the air, and it is necessary to select the desired temperature in the car manually, adjusting the opening angles of the dampers and the air flow, then with a climate control system the car driver can fully concentrate on the process of driving the vehicle.
The disadvantages of climate control include:
- unreliability;
- complexity;
- high cost of maintenance.
- not entirely accurate operation of temperature sensors, as a result of which the temperature in the car may differ from the values set on the control panel.
Sensors are usually located in hidden places, and foreign objects in the cabin make it difficult to read the data, which leads to such an error.
Multi-zone climate control
To improve comfort, car manufacturers often install multi-zone climate control. This word implies that the interior of the car will be divided into conditional zones, in each of which a certain temperature will be maintained.
The following options exist:
- 2-zone, the most common, however, the least effective option. In this case, two separate zones are at the front of the car (driver and passenger);
- 3-zone, with this option the temperature is set not only for the two front passengers, but also for a separate area of the rear seat;
- 4-zone, in this case the temperature is set for each passenger in the hotel, both in the front and rear seats.
Multi-zone climate control is implemented using a controlled system of dampers and air ducts for each part of the car. They contain sensors that take readings and transmit them to the control unit, which, by adjusting the opening angles of the dampers, achieves the required temperature values for each zone.
Climate control
Climate control is controlled on the corresponding panel. The required values are set using the regulators. They are transmitted to the control unit, which sets the optimal values for the opening angles of the dampers and the effective air flow.
The damper regulates the temperature as a whole (by mixing cold and hot air), so in multi-zone climate control it is impossible to set temperature values that vary greatly in value. Periodically, the control unit polls the sensors and slightly adjusts the operation of the actuators.
Operation of the climate control is quite simple. It is not recommended to use it without a properly functioning cooling system, since there is always moisture in the air, and without drying the air it will be deposited on the evaporator, which will lead to the so-called “swampy” smell in the car interior.
In addition, moisture is a breeding ground for all kinds of bacteria and microbes, which can greatly affect the health of passengers and the driver himself. It is recommended to periodically allow only the air conditioner to operate (even in winter) in order to remove moisture from the evaporator.
You should also not open the windows or sunroof when driving with climate control. In this case, the sensor readings will be confused and the system will not be able to function normally.
To summarize, we can say that climate control is fully responsible for the microclimate inside the car and takes care of the health of the driver and his passengers. Automatic adjustment to maintain comfortable temperature conditions inside the car allows the driver not to be distracted from the road and allows the driver to fully concentrate on the driving process. All this makes driving a car safe and comfortable.
Comfortable conditions inside the car are ensured by a special system that regulates humidity and air temperature. All drivers know it as climate control, which very accurately reflects its functions and purpose. Most modern cars are equipped with such systems of varying levels of complexity. Information on the availability of climate control can be found in the technical documentation of the car.
The first device that provided a comfortable microclimate in the car interior was a stove. Part of the thermal energy it generated was used for heating. Now this device is considered primitive and incapable of creating comfortable conditions, especially in hot weather. In this article we will talk about the system that replaced it. In other words, you will learn what climate control is in a car.
Definition
The complex designs of modern systems help them solve a wide range of problems. Let's try to understand the purpose of climate control.
The technical documentation says that the system provides comfortable conditions for passengers and the driver. The most favorable temperature range for humans is considered to be 22-25 °C with a humidity of 65-80%. Climate control monitors these parameters and maintains their consistency.
The temperature is regulated using an air conditioner and a stove. But with humidity the situation is more complicated, since water vapor condenses on the car windows. This causes inconvenience and obstructs the driver's visibility. Good climate control dehumidifies the air by forcing it through the air conditioner's evaporator. Due to this, water settles in the form of dew on the walls of the heat exchanger. And lowering the humidity prevents the windows from fogging up.
Nowadays, most vehicles (from cars to trucks) are equipped with this device. It is also installed on self-propelled mechanisms and special equipment.
Now you know what climate control is in a car. But to complete the picture, it is necessary to consider several more important points.
How car climate control works
Using sensors, this device monitors the air temperature outside and inside the car. The flow from outside is forced into the cabin by a fan, dividing into 2 parts: one passes through the air conditioner evaporator, and the second through the stove. After the heat exchangers, the mixed air enters the cabin through a network of deflectors and box-shaped air ducts.
The parameters are adjusted by changing the position of the curtains (central and additional). They are called temperature control dampers. The dampers are rotated by electric servo drives, which reduce or increase the cross-section of the channels. Everything described above is controlled through the climate control control unit.
The regulator on the panel of this device allows you to set the desired temperature, for example 24 °C. This data will go to the processor, which, in accordance with the programmed algorithm and information received from the sensors, will control the operation of the system. Since internal and external parameters are constantly changing, they are monitored in real time.
Components
The development and installation of climate control on a car is carried out during its assembly at the manufacturer’s plant. To perform the functions assigned to the device, its design contains a number of components:
- air conditioner;
- control Panel;
- CPU;
- damper position temperature sensor;
- heater;
- blower fan;
- system of deflectors and air ducts;
- block of guide flaps.
Each element of the system has its own function.
The fan creates pressure. In recirculation mode, air is taken in by the system both from inside and outside.
The damper block is mounted in the same housing with the air conditioner evaporator and the heater radiator. This design makes it possible to bring the airspace parameters in accordance with the established values.
A system of deflectors and air ducts distributes flows throughout the car interior in accordance with a specific program. Control is carried out using a processor that receives data from the panel from switches, regulators and sensors.
The operation of climate control in a car directly depends on the state of its control program and components.
Additional modes
In addition to the basic functions for creating a comfortable microclimate, the device can have a number of additional modes:
- Blowing the lower part of the cabin and the windshield with warm air.
- Manual control.
- Windshield defogger to prevent condensation. To do this, the air is dehumidified and the fan operates at full power.
- Supplying air to various parts of the body: legs, arms, face separately or in certain combinations.
- Recycling.
The latter mode is needed for accelerated cooling or warming up the interior, as well as for driving in traffic jams. In the latter situation, the air outside is heavily polluted, and the car's climate control system simply cuts off its supply to the cabin. For these purposes, the device contains a sensor, the working element of which consists of tin oxide. Its resistance varies depending on the concentration level of harmful substances.
Application specifics
Manufacturers develop climate control for a line of cars or a specific model. They differ in design, degree of complexity and control algorithm.
Inexpensive installations have a low degree of automation and rather roughly regulate air exchange. Very often, when the engine is cold, an unheated flow is supplied to the cabin.
In advanced installations, such things do not happen, since they control many different parameters. In addition to other functions, modern systems can not only monitor air quality, but also use filters if necessary. The latter use carbon and paper cartridges that trap suspended dust particles and gaseous substances harmful to humans.
In modern air conditioning systems, air temperature is adjusted in the range from 16 °C to 30 °C. To avoid hypothermia, do not set very low values. For a comfortable stay of the driver in the cabin, the temperature sensor should show a difference (between the cabin and the street) of only 5-7 °C. To speed up the operation of the device, you can open the windows slightly. Then the conditioned air will displace cold or heat from the interior much faster.
Dual zone climate control
Each person has an individual perception of temperature. That is, the same value may be normal for one passenger, but uncomfortable for another. In this case, automakers have come up with dual-zone climate control, when the driver can set the optimal temperature for himself and his passengers.
Let's list the advantages of dual-zone climate control:
- The driver and each passenger sets the most comfortable microclimate for themselves.
- The system executes the programmed algorithm very accurately.
- Due to the influence of external and internal factors, it is almost impossible for windows to fog up in such cars.
Differences from air conditioning
Readers who don’t know much about climate control in a car may ask: “Why complicate the system so much? After all, it’s quite possible to limit yourself to air conditioning in the summer and a stove in the winter.”
This has been true in the past, but there is one important point. Both systems are capable of providing an optimal microclimate in the cabin only if the external and internal conditions in the car remain unchanged. For a moving object, which is a car, this is simply unrealistic. Air pressure and temperature change along with the direction and speed of movement.
The main difference between air conditioning and climate control is the presence of a control system that monitors all parameters and regulates them without outside participation. It turns out that the air conditioner is one of the components of the installation, which performs the function of reducing humidity and cooling.
Climate control in winter
At low temperatures, the car's climate control equipment mostly works to heat the outside air. In such conditions, air humidity is low, so a stove will be quite sufficient. And turning off the air conditioner will not affect the efficiency of the climate control.
Everything is much more difficult when the temperature is at zero, with rain and snow or high humidity. In this case, the windows and windshield may fog up. But the climate control control unit can easily solve this problem by switching the system to automatic mode. And to remove excess moisture from the outside air, the system uses the air conditioner.
Conclusion
In this article we found out what climate control is in a car. Let us briefly summarize everything described above.
- Installation of the system is necessary to create comfortable conditions in the car interior with their automatic regulation.
- A modern car with climate control will make both long trips and short trips as pleasant as possible.
So, if you decide to buy a car, then choose the option with this necessary device.
Just recently, such equipment as a car air conditioner was a novelty for our average person. But today the only thing that can surprise someone is the absence of it in the list of equipment of a new car. However, not everyone understands the principle of its operation, as well as how an air conditioner differs from climate control. Therefore, let’s talk about this vast topic and dot all the i’s.
The car air conditioner is powered not from the electrical network, but directly from the engine crankshaft using a belt drive
Being one of the types of air conditioning systems, a car air conditioner has its own significant difference. In this case, the equipment is powered not from the electrical network, as in the domestic version, but directly from the engine crankshaft, using a belt drive. That is, part of the motor power is used for operation.
Hence the loss of precious Newtons when turning on the air conditioning on small cars. Accordingly, the power unit should be “twisted” more, which means fuel consumption increases. However, on the other side of the scale is the comfort of movement in hot summer weather, so everyone chooses for themselves what they like best.
What does an air conditioner consist of and how does it work?
In many ways, the air conditioner, in terms of its operating principle, is similar to a conventional household refrigerator, although their internal structure is different. True, even within the automotive industry, air conditioners may differ in design, but the meaning of their operation is still unchanged. In any case, we have a closed and sealed system through which a special refrigerant liquid - freon - circulates. Freon needs to be changed from time to time, but this is done exclusively at a service station.
When a person presses the start button of a mechanical air conditioner, the corresponding electromagnetic clutch is activated, and the pressure disk of the drive unit couples the air conditioning system to the pulley. At the same time, the pulley is constantly in motion and rotates from the crankshaft, thanks to a belt drive.
The compressor comes into operation, the task of which is to compress the gaseous freon, causing it to heat up and then enter the condenser, the so-called “radiator” of the air conditioner. Here, the hot freon is cooled, which is helped by an electric fan, which by default operates at first speed.
While the car is moving, the cooling effect increases, but if the car is stationary, for example in a traffic jam, sensors can detect a decrease in the system's efficiency and initiate the inclusion of a second fan speed.
In many ways, the air conditioner is similar to a conventional household refrigerator, although their internal structure is different.
In the condenser, the freon, having cooled, begins to condense and turns into a liquid state. Next, the receiver-dryer filters the composition from debris, after which the freon is directed towards the cabin.
The main action takes place when it enters the evaporator through the thermostatic valve. Here the substance boils, evaporates and becomes steam, greatly reducing the temperature of the evaporator. Well, here a separate fan blows cold air from the evaporator directly into the car interior. Freon returns to the compressor, where a new heat exchange cycle starts.
How to avoid catching a cold under air conditioning
Doctors have long recognized the fact that rapid and regular changes in ambient temperature are very dangerous for the human body. If the amplitude of the surges exceeds 3-5 degrees Celsius, the body is experiencing considerable stress.
As a result, illnesses, allergic reactions, runny nose and even colds can develop. But to be afraid of wolves is not to go into the forest, so let’s deal with this problem once and for all, so as not to suffer from such a pleasant effect as coolness in the heat.
The first rule is to cool gradually, or rather, in stages. Do not immediately turn on the system at full power and set the minimum possible air temperature. First adjust the flow temperature to 25-24 degrees. This will immediately make spending time in the cabin more comfortable than outside.
But the sensations when a stream of air is pumped into the cabin at 17 degrees will be akin to relaxation in the snow. With such success you can stick your head in the freezer. After the skin has adapted to the microcosm that has reigned in the car, you can move on to more serious measures and turn the regulator to +22.
Doctors have long said that rapid and regular changes in ambient temperature are very dangerous for the human body.
Doctors strongly do not recommend taking risks and using more severe modes, since the space is small and the temperature will be felt exactly the same as it is indicated on the display or scale. It is also important that the windows are closed, otherwise it will harm the system and also create a draft. And drafts in a car are a completely separate and unpleasant issue.
Another factor that can worsen human health and cause acute respiratory infections are microorganisms that quietly multiply in the depths of the air conditioner filter. It is necessary to regularly change them in accordance with the recommendations of the car manufacturer, and also dry clean the most contaminated parts of the car air conditioner.
Experienced drivers recommend cooling a hot car as follows. First you need to open all the windows and ventilate the space, getting rid of the hot “spirit”. After this, everything is tightly closed, and the air conditioner is set to “interior only” mode. After five minutes, you can set the “external” mode and finally set the temperature.
What is the difference between air conditioning and climate control in a car?
As for climate control in a car, it is essentially the same air conditioning, only automatic. True, it must be said that in the case of an automatic climate system we are dealing with an integrated unit, which, in addition to the cooling function, also performs the duties of a car heater. That is, the temperature level in the cabin is regulated in both directions: both for lowering and for heating.
Climate control has information read from sensors located in the cabin. This means that the driver sets a temperature range that is comfortable for him, saves the data in the equipment’s memory, and then the system independently ensures that the temperature does not fall below or rise above the specified values.
The difference between air conditioning and climate control
The Electronic Control Unit is structurally the main difference that flaunts the automatic climate control system
The “brains” of climate control is the electronic control unit, which “digests” information coming from sensors: temperature, humidity, pressure, as well as similar indicators of the atmosphere outside. Actually, the ECU is the main structural difference that flaunts the automatic climate control system.
It is worth mentioning separately the advantages of climate control over conventional air conditioning:
- no need to listen to your feelings and determine the temperature in the cabin at random;
- quick response of the ECU to changes in temperature;
- full concentration on driving, not on control of regulators;
- fuel savings due to timely shutdown of the cooling (heating) function of the air in the cabin;
- possibility of purchasing a car with separate climate control.
Climate control allows you to save fuel by timely turning off the cooling (heating) function of the air in the cabin
Another feature of climate control is its “smart” behavior during the winter season. Analyzing the low temperature outside and the high probability of glass freezing, the ECU independently controls the air dampers. First, streams of warm air are directed onto the glass, and they thaw. After this, as the engine warms up, the legs and seat area are heated.
The final direction of air flow becomes the driver's face, which is a priori considered the most appropriate part of the body for taking air baths while driving. True, such functions are not found on all climate control models. However, a number of manufacturers offer the opportunity for the motorist to independently configure the system’s operation algorithm and establish the order of what is warmed up and why in the winter.
Air conditioning and climate control
Operating a regular air conditioner will be very simple even for a beginner in these matters. Everything is done by hand. On the dashboard, as a rule, there is an “A/C” compressor control button, a fan speed switch, a temperature regulator with blue and red zones, as well as a lever for distributing air flows throughout the cabin (center, top, bottom).
Of course, all this needs to be monitored, which is not very convenient, especially if there is no opportunity to make a stop. The air conditioner can have both mechanical controls (knobs with static scales) and electronic controls with liquid crystal displays and proprietary manipulators.
In the case of climate control, you can rely on the Auto mode, which will ensure the collection and analysis of all indicators from the sensors and organize the operation of the system in such a way that the result satisfies the owner’s wishes. The required temperature is simply set on the display of the control unit, and that’s it - the “climate” will do the rest itself.
With separate climate control, data is set separately for the front passengers, separately for the inhabitants of the gallery (the premium class even offers 4-zone system options, where each passenger can independently choose the optimal temperature).
Which is better: climate control or air conditioning
The question “What to choose: climate control or air conditioning?” can drive you into a dead end, because both the first and the second have their drawbacks
The question of what is better to take: a car with good old air conditioning or a more sophisticated and advanced option equipped with climate control is quite natural. This dilemma is especially relevant for beginners who have never driven even with a conventional air conditioner and cannot objectively compare such equipment. But one thing is immediately obvious - climate control is more convenient to use. You just need to set the comfortable settings once, and maximum comfort will be ensured for many months. But is everything so clear in this case?
In fact, automation also has its own disadvantages, which can ultimately influence the choice and tip the scales with a conventional air conditioner. Firstly, this is the price. It will be significantly higher if we are talking about a configuration with climate control. But this is not surprising, because people want to have more comfort at their disposal, and therefore why shouldn’t the automaker earn a hundred or two on this? Also, one should not underestimate the cost of such equipment, because the design of climate control is more complex than the “anatomy” of an air conditioner.
Here we come to the next item on the list of minuses. This refers to the reliability and maintainability of complex systems and electronic assistants in a modern car. It is clear that a huge part of the work of climate control is performed solely through the interaction of electronics. Take the same electronic control unit that the air conditioner does not have. The effectiveness of the entire system depends on its adequacy. And, of course, it will be much more difficult to repair and maintain a more sophisticated system.
Drivers often complain about climate control not working correctly, in particular this applies to regulating the temperature in the cabin
But as for the accuracy of temperature control in the cabin, drivers often complain about the incorrect operation of the climate control, and this applies to cars of various brands. So the problem turns out to be a clear discrepancy between the temperature declared in the ECU and the real picture provided by a completely serviceable system. For example, in the heat, when the temperature is set to 24 degrees, the body feels all 26-27. You have to literally guess and act at random to find out the regulator mark necessary for a comfortable ride.
Often this situation occurs due to a defective or poorly located temperature sensor in the cabin, as a result of which the information entering the control unit is distorted. Similarly, a mechanical climate control temperature regulator that has a fixed step can be annoying. In this situation, the optimal mode sometimes ends up in the “blind zone” - between one and the other adjacent divisions.
Final verdict
Many people think that it is better to save up some money and buy a car with climate control, because you only live once!
However, despite the above features of operating automatic climate control, this option is still preferable, as it has a number of stated advantages. Therefore, many will say that it is better to save up more money and take a well-equipped car - you only live once. At the same time, the air conditioner is theoretically more reliable, especially far from service, and costs less money. So everyone ultimately decides for themselves.
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