Eli5: If I get in a cold car and want the temperature inside to be 71, so I set it for 71 or set it higher until I am uncomfortable?

Question

What is the fastest way to heat the inside of a car or room. Set the heater to desired temperature or initially set it higher than wanted?

In: Engineering

Answer 1

Setting it higher probably helps a little bit.

Even if it’s designed well and doesn’t needlessly slow down heating as the target temperature is approached, you’ll still be colder initially while all the stuff around you in the car is still cold. Being in a cold car with 71 degree air is going to seem colder than being in a warm car with 71 degree air. There’s also the stuff you’re wearing, which can be cold if you spent a lot of time outside. I find boots warm up slowly.