Mechanic in Goshen, Indiana Explains Why Your Heater Shouldn’t Be on 'Full Blast' When You First Start Your Car
When the temperature drops, it’s tempting to crank your car’s heater up to full blast the moment you start your engine. But did you know that doing so could actually make warming up your vehicle less efficient? At Team Automotive & Parts in Goshen, Indiana, we want to help you understand why patience is key when it comes to heating your car and how to get the most out of your heater this winter.
Why Blasting the Heater Right Away Doesn’t Work
Your car’s heater works by using heat generated from the engine. When you first start your vehicle, the engine is still cold, meaning there’s no warmth available for the heater to blow into the car. If you turn the fan on full blast immediately, you’ll just be circulating cold air, making your ride feel even chillier - but I’m sure you already knew that part.
The Right Way to Warm Up Your Car
Instead of cranking the heat up right away, follow these steps to efficiently warm up your car. Follow these and your car will thank you:
Start Your Engine and Wait a Few Minutes – Let your engine run for a couple of minutes to start generating heat. Modern engines don’t need long to warm up, but they do need at least a little time before producing hot air.
Keep the Fan on Low at First – Running the fan on a lower setting allows the engine to gradually build up heat before blowing warm air into the cabin.
Turn the Heat Up as the Temperature Rises – After a few minutes, your engine will warm up enough to start producing heat. This is when you can gradually increase the fan speed for a comfortable ride.
Use the Recirculation Mode – Switching to recirculation mode can help keep the warm air inside the car instead of constantly pulling in cold air from outside.
Other Winter Driving Tips for Goshen Drivers
Check Your Coolant Levels – Your car’s heating system relies on the coolant to function properly. Make sure your coolant levels are adequate to ensure efficient heating.
Defrost Your Windshield Properly – Instead of blasting hot air onto a frozen windshield, use the defrost setting with the A/C on to remove condensation and clear up visibility.
Keep Your Car Maintained – Regular maintenance, including checking your thermostat and heater core, can help prevent heating issues during winter months.
Stay Warm and Drive Safe
By following these simple steps, you’ll stay warm without overworking your car’s heating system. If you notice your heater isn’t working properly or your car is struggling to warm up, our team at Team Automotive & Parts in Goshen, Indiana, is here to help. Stop by for an inspection, and we’ll make sure your vehicle is winter-ready!
Need expert advice or a winter car check-up? Contact Team Automotive & Parts today!
