AUTO or EC?
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MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Apr 2003
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From: Boston
'05 A4 1.8TQM6
AUTO or EC?
sup all.
do you guys leave the HVAC in AUTO mode or EC mode? I know AUTO will kick in the compressor when it's needed, therefore less power, but usually only when you have temps in the low 60's or 50s for the A/C in the summer time...
do you guys leave the HVAC in AUTO mode or EC mode? I know AUTO will kick in the compressor when it's needed, therefore less power, but usually only when you have temps in the low 60's or 50s for the A/C in the summer time...
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Apr 2003
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From: San Antonio, Texas
2016 BMW Z4 sDrive35i M Sport
I'm pretty adapt to still air so I usually leave it completely off in the summer mornings or nights. During West Texas summers DEFNITELY in AUTO during the 105 degree days. I only switch to EC when I need power or I'm cruising the interstate on a long drive. Winter time AUTO 75-80 degrees or off if the car's warm enough. Satisfied G-DAWG?
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Joined: Jul 2003
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From: Houston, TX
98 MB C280
hey, see the thing is, i got a 220 too. once the a/c comes on in the summer and i don't have the CAI installed, then i gotta get out and push the car anyways cuz it'll move faster that way. so either way, ec it is!!!
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Member
Joined: Jun 2003
Posts: 157
Likes: 1
Don't use the EC button often.
It disables the AC compressor. On 1996- W202 systems, MB actually installed a system designed to run the compressor all the time. It keeps the evaporator at a constant temp regardless of the demand on the system. The reason to run the compressor all the time is greatly enhanced long term life. The system thrives on running as the compressor is lubricated by the coolant.
By engagine the EC button, you actually go against the design and engineering of the system. It should be used occasionally, but in the long term, there is a possibility you are doing your system greater harm than good.
Building HVAC systems are currently undergoing design changes to mimic the MB car system. The goal has been to have the compressor run continously, therefore having the system properly lubricated.
The way the system keeps from overcooling the evaporator is by having the compressor capable of variable pressure. It's an innovative solution that allows the evap temp to be held slighty above freezing no matter the outside temp, but allowing the system's parasitic losses to be minimized during periods when cooling of the outside air is not required.
For the longest life of your system, go with "auto" and not "EC."
It disables the AC compressor. On 1996- W202 systems, MB actually installed a system designed to run the compressor all the time. It keeps the evaporator at a constant temp regardless of the demand on the system. The reason to run the compressor all the time is greatly enhanced long term life. The system thrives on running as the compressor is lubricated by the coolant.
By engagine the EC button, you actually go against the design and engineering of the system. It should be used occasionally, but in the long term, there is a possibility you are doing your system greater harm than good.
Building HVAC systems are currently undergoing design changes to mimic the MB car system. The goal has been to have the compressor run continously, therefore having the system properly lubricated.
The way the system keeps from overcooling the evaporator is by having the compressor capable of variable pressure. It's an innovative solution that allows the evap temp to be held slighty above freezing no matter the outside temp, but allowing the system's parasitic losses to be minimized during periods when cooling of the outside air is not required.
For the longest life of your system, go with "auto" and not "EC."
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Apr 2003
Posts: 4,781
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From: Boston
'05 A4 1.8TQM6
interesting. i usually just put it in EC and will turn on AUTO occasionally to have the compressor run so that its not just sitting there not being used.
when using AUTO, the car losses power and decreased gas mileage.
What about not using AUTO or EC...I know if you press the fan speed and a direction to spit the air out, u can have neither AUTO or EC button lit up...
when using AUTO, the car losses power and decreased gas mileage.
What about not using AUTO or EC...I know if you press the fan speed and a direction to spit the air out, u can have neither AUTO or EC button lit up...
Member
Joined: Jun 2003
Posts: 157
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The system on your 1994 C220 is the "old" style system that has a set displacement compressor that cycles in a binary mode (on and off) as opposed to the newer systems that run continously, but can alter the pressure to suit the needs of the evaporator.
While the system was designed to go on and off, it's still desirable to have the compressor run frequently to extend it's life.
On 1996 and newer cars, you should leave the system in Auto mode to maximize system life.
While the system was designed to go on and off, it's still desirable to have the compressor run frequently to extend it's life.
On 1996 and newer cars, you should leave the system in Auto mode to maximize system life.
