Six ways to heat proof your car and kids

We’re pretty sure you know that human and fur kids should never be left in the car, even with the windows down a crack. On a typical Australian summer day, the temperature inside a parked car can be 20 to 30 degrees Celsius hotter than the outside temperature., according to KidSafe.

Stationary car hazards aside, a summer’s drive can also turn into a sweaty nightmare unless you’re smart about the ways you can help everyone keep their cool. Before you think about hitting the road, tick off some of these chill-out suggestions.

Sunshades and sun visors are no-brainers when you’re in and out of the car. They’re inexpensive, physical UV blockers that will dial down the temperature of your car interior. Sun visors may also help you reduce glare when driving and that makes it safer for you and your passengers. You can also mount a solar-powered car fan to your window, charge it from the sun, and use it to help ramp up air circulation.

What could be more Australian than an esky? Often long drives offer limited stops for refreshments. So, pack cool, non-alcoholic drinks for everyone, including a bottle of water and bowl for your pooch. Or get fancy with a portable mini fridge for $99 and include some other cool treats like water-rich fruit too.

Over time your air conditioning may stop working at peak if you haven’t had the filter or the TX Valve that controls the flow of refrigerant replaced. This is different from regassing which only involves renewing the refrigerant. A mechanic can also check your air con system for leaks if you think it’s not functioning at capacity. If there’s no significant damage, a service shouldn’t cost you more than $100 to $250.

Tinting your windows isn’t only about privacy, it’s also about cooling. Carbon window tints reject up to 60 per cent of heat coming through the windows while ceramic window tints reject up to 95 per cent.

Australian Vehicle Safety Regulations set different limits for window tinting, most between 15 and 30 per cent, and you’re not allowed any on the windshield. Cost is dependent on the type of tint chosen, as well as the make, model and year of your car.

Related: Five of the hottest summer essentials for you and your car

The Noggle is an American-made device that looks like a large, hollow snake and is designed to help control the temperature in your car’s backseat by directing it more efficiently from your dash. The result is children or pets get better access to the air conditioning. Most models are around $76 plus postage with cost based on length.

While you don’t want to encourage thieves, cracking windows just a little when everyone is out of the car for a break will help prevent a super steamy car on your return. That’s because hot air rises and leaving an opening helps it to escape.

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