A/C hose lines

[JimT]

I resist using AC until outside temps stay above about 85 degrees F. Otherwise I like the fresh air. Above 85 the heat just builds up, especially down around my feet. I miss the older trucks that had various vents you could open, for example near you feet. Or the angled side window you could use to direct airflow.

I started my career in early 2000's doing local LTL making about 20 stops every day. 5-15 minutes between stops with 15-30 minutes parked. Even with the windows open the heat from the engine would soak into the cab. Trucks did have AC but you were rarely in them long enough to cool off before the next stop. Some drivers from other LTL companies told me they were forbidden from using the AC unless they were on the highway. Between the frequent stops and all the time spent working inside the trailer at stops I quickly got used to the heat.

These days I find myself using the AC more often though. My refrigerator is happier with the lower ambient cab temps, the wind noise makes it hard to listen to audio books, it does seem more fuel efficient due to aerodynamics and I'm driving for hours at a time now so long term comfort and alertness are important.