| On sunny summer days the temperature inside a parked car can reach 160 degrees Fahrenheit or more. AutoVent SPV is a solar powered ventilator for use as an alternative to leaving windows slightly open in a parked vehicle. The device rests along the top of the window glass with the photovoltaic (PV) panel facing out. Installation is straightforward. Roll the window partially down. Place the ventilator (pictured) and its weatherproof 38" flexible security strip along the top edge of the window (suitable for use on most straight or curved window glass). Roll the window closed. The sunlight hitting the PV panel is converted into electrical energy, which drives the AutoVent's exhaust fan. The stale interior air will be exhausted out of the car through the vent and replaced with fresher air from the outside.
This is an interesting product, but realize that the speed of the exhaust fan and the size of the vent are limited, so substantial reductions of inside temperature aren't likely. Nevertheless, since the outside air coming into the car is likely to be of a lower temperature than the interior air being exhausted, this device may partially moderate heat build-up in the vehicle's interior, which could help to reduce the air conditioning load on start-up.
Note that this device requires direct sunlight to operate properly. It is not appropriate for use in vehicles with heavily tinted windows, and will not work well on cloudy days.
- Manufacturer Model #: IWP-7000
Additional Information: Manufacturer Product Sheet (pdf) |
