Sorry if this is a stupid question, but I was wondering if it's okay to crank the A/C when driving with the dop down on really hot days? I've heard of other people doing this, but personally, I'm afraid of over-working the A/C and having it crap out on me later. How many people do this and have they ever had any A/C problems?

-Pat

 

I do it all the time when it's hot outside. I can't imagine why it would be that bad - even if the roof was up you would have the AC on full and keep it running. Our AC doesn't work efficently anyway with a thermostat type system you have in your house or luxury cars.

 

I do it

 

Good point. I guess it isn't any different.

I was thinking it would take more work to remove the heat from hot air than it would to remove the heat from already-conditioned air (like in a house). If that's true, than it still wouldn't apply to when the A/C is pulling air from the outside of the car.

Thanks!

 

it's ok to do it -- there's even a "top-down" mode on your vent selector knob. it actually works quite well, IMO, but i think some prefer the full "in-your-face" vent position; YMMV

 

It's definitely the way to go in the summer around here. There needs to be an official term for it, though. Top down with heat on is "California cruising" so what is this? Texas cruising? NOVA Cruising?

- Jeremy (jnn4v)