What does this overlooked button do on your car dashboard and when to use it?
As temperatures rise, many drivers rely on air conditioning to stay comfortable. But one often-overlooked feature could make a real difference in both efficiency and safety—the AC recirculation button.
Searches for “what does the AC button do in a car?” have surged by 5,000% in the last 30 days, revealing widespread confusion. Temporary car insurance experts at Tempcover explain when to use it—and when it could cause problems.
What Does the AC Recirculation Button Do?
The AC recirculation button, usually marked with a car symbol and a circular arrow, controls whether the ventilation system pulls in fresh air from outside or reuses air already inside the cabin.
When to Use It
On hot days, recirculating pre-cooled air helps the AC system work more efficiently, cooling the cabin faster while reducing strain on the system. It’s also useful in heavy traffic or polluted areas, as it helps keep fumes and poor air quality outside, while keeping the AC filter cleaner for longer.
When to Switch It Off
While useful in the right conditions, leaving the recirculation mode on for too long can have drawbacks. During long drives, it reduces fresh air intake, potentially causing drowsiness. In cold weather, it can trap humidity inside the car, leading to condensation on windows and reduced visibility. If the windscreen fogs up, turning off recirculation and allowing fresh air in is the quickest way to clear it.
