Theory versus Reality re: heater fan helps keep cockpit cool

[theDreamer]

Back in the day when the “cold air” heater was introduced it was thought to have several bonus features. By keeping the heater cable pushed in (in the "Off" position) then hot coolant would by-pass the heater core. This meant that whatever the outside air temp was would be what flowed into the car and thus help keep the leg area cooler. Also, with a flow of air coming up from under the dash it would help to lessen the draft of turbulent air rushing in from behind to fill the void in the cockpit.

From your experience, is this how it works with the heater fan on full and the cable in the “Off” position? Or, is the reality that it just kicks up the dust from the foot wells into your eyes?

[Vovchandr]

In my experience the heater cable is very similar to a USB stick. It takes 3 clicks to get it right while you're trying to remember whether pushed in should be "on" or "off"

 

Overall on our type of cars I find it makes no difference in regular temperatures on Zetec cars as drivers footwell is already hot and makes a mild difference for passengers. Nothing beats a good blanket for the lower body.

With a windshield/doors/half hood its a completely different beast for air flow management vs simply aeroscreen in which case you don't manage the air flow, it manages you.

[jbcollier]

In earlier Sevens, the heater recirculates passenger compartment air.  It does not draw in outside air.

 

The heater control is also a "throttle" valve that opens and closes, it does not bypass.

[slowdude]

11 hours ago, Vovchandr said:

In my experience the heater cable is very similar to a USB stick. It takes 3 clicks to get it right while you're trying to remember whether pushed in should be "on" or "off"

 

Overall on our type of cars I find it makes no difference in regular temperatures on Zetec cars as drivers footwell is already hot and makes a mild difference for passengers. Nothing beats a good blanket for the lower body.

With a windshield/doors/half hood its a completely different beast for air flow management vs simply aeroscreen in which case you don't manage the air flow, it manages you.

Absolutely agreed.

 

Heater works with weather equipment.

 

If your engine is warm and you're turning on the hear, you've got bigger problems than the temporary heat discomfort.

 

I run the heat below 50F. Roof and heater at 45 and below. Roof and heater is fine in the high 20s. That's as cold as I've gotten it.