1996 Pontiac Firebird Owner's Manual - Page 140

The air conditioner compressor operates MAX, A/C, in BI-LEVEL, BLEND and DEFROST when the outside temperature is above freezing. When the air conditioner is on, you may sometimes notice slight changes your in vehicle's engine speed and power. This normal because is the system .is designed to cycle the compressoron and off to keepthe desired cooling and help fuel economy. Cooling The airconditioner works best if you keep your windows closed. On very hot days, open the windows just long enough for the hot air to escape. During initial start-up only, if your vehicle is equipped with an optional engine coolant heater, you can use in it cold weather (around +20 O F/-8 O C or lower) to improve heater performance on start up. Because an engine coolant heater warms the engine coolant, your vehicle's 'heatingsystem can more efficiently provide heat for the passenger area of your vehicle. See "Engine Coolant Heater" in the Index. Bi-Level Heating You may want to use bi-level heating on cool, but sunny days. This setting directs cool air toward your bodyand warmer air toward your feet. 1. Turn the air control knob to A/C for normal cooling. For faster cooling, move the knob to MAX. 2. Turn the temperature control knob to a comfortable setting. 3. Move the fan control knob to the desired speed. 1. Turn the air control knob to BI-LEVEL. 2. Turn the temperature control knob to a comfortable setting. 3. Turn the fan control knob to the desired speed. Heating The heater works best if you keep your windows closed while using it. 1. Turn the air control knob to HEATER. 2. Turn the fan control knob to the desired speed. 3. T r the temperature control knob to a un comfortable setting. 3-3