Can a Parking Heater Also Cool?

Parking heaters are ideal for heating vehicles such as cars, campers, boats, and trucks, especially in cold climates. But what about when temperatures rise? Can parking heaters also cool? In this blog post, we answer this frequently asked question and explore possible alternatives for vehicle cooling.

What is a parking heater?

A parking heater is a device that generates heat without the need for the vehicle's engine to idle. Parking heaters typically use fuel (such as diesel) to warm outside air and then circulate the warm air through the vehicle. This makes them extremely useful in cold climates, especially for drivers who spend extended periods in their vehicles, such as truck drivers and campers.

Would you like to learn more about how parking heaters work exactly? Read our comprehensive blog post What is a Parking Heater and How Does It Work? for more information.

Can Parking Heaters Cool?

The short answer is: no, a parking heater cannot cool. Parking heaters are designed to generate heat and are specifically intended for heating in vehicles. They are not air conditioners and do not have components that can produce cold air.

However, some modern parking heater models offer combination systems that can be linked to air conditioners or ventilation systems. This allows you to both heat and cool in different seasons, depending on your needs. These systems are often more expensive, but provide the advantage of temperature control for both summer and winter.

What Are the Alternatives for Cooling in Vehicles?

If you are looking for a solution to cool your vehicle, especially during hot summers, there are several alternatives that can be considered:

• 1. Air conditioning: The most common way to cool a vehicle is by using an air conditioning system. Most modern vehicles are equipped with air conditioning that can quickly and effectively cool the cabin.
• 2. Ventilation Systems: Fans and air circulation systems can help improve the airflow in your vehicle. While they do not actively lower the temperature like an air conditioner, they do provide a more pleasant air circulation.
• 3. Portable Air Conditioners: For campers or boat owners, a portable air conditioner can be a good solution. These devices operate on batteries or external power sources and can effectively cool small spaces.

Combination Systems: Heating and Cooling

Although a parking heater itself cannot provide cooling, there are combination systems available that can offer both heating and cooling. These systems combine a parking heater with an air conditioning or ventilation system. This provides the best of both worlds: a warm vehicle in the winter and a cool vehicle in the summer.

These combination systems are usually more expensive than a standard parking heater, but if you frequently travel in different climates, the investment may be worth it. Furthermore, they are energy-efficient and designed to last a long time.

Is a Parking Heater Still Useful in the Summer?

Despite the fact that a parking heater does not provide cooling, it can still be useful during the summer months. This is because most modern parking heaters can be turned off when not needed, without affecting other systems in your vehicle. They do not consume power or fuel when turned off, so there is no downside to having a parking heater in the summer.

Conclusion

Although parking heaters are not designed for cooling, they are an indispensable tool for heating vehicles in cold climates. For cooling, there are various alternatives available, such as air conditioning and ventilation systems. For those seeking an all-in-one solution, combination systems that provide both heating and cooling can be a good option.

View our range of parking heaters for vehicles, and discover which solution best suits your needs.