1997 Chevrolet Express Van Owner's Manual - Page 132

Air Conditioning Before using your vehicle's air conditioning, open the windows to clear the vehicle of hot air. This reduces the time it takes for your vehicle to cool down. Then keep your windows closed for the air conditioner to work at its best. You can use MAX A/C with the temperature knob in the blue area, when it's really hot outside and you need to cool the inside airquickly. MAX A/C lets in only a little air fromthe outside. If you first use MAX A/C, you can then use A/C with the temperature knob in the blue area, as soon as the vehicle has cooled down, so outside air will be going through your vehicle. If your vehicle has rear air conditioning, setting it on LO may enhance front A/C performance by allowing trapped refrigerant in rear lines to circulate. When the air conditioning, DEFROST or BLENDis on, you may notice a slight increase ordecrease in engine speed, due to compressor operation. This is normal because the system is designed to cycle the compressor on and off to keep the desired temperature. Heating On cold days, use HEATER with the temperature knob in the red area. Outside air will be brought in through the floor outlets. The heater works best if you keep your windows closed while using it. If you use the optional engine coolant heater before starting your engine, your heating system will produce warmer air faster to heat the passenger compartment in cold weather. See "Engine Coolant Heater" in the Index. Ventilation Tips Keep the hood and front air inlet free of ice, snow, or any other obstruction (such as leaves). The heater and defroster will work far better, reducing the chance of fogging the inside of your windows. When you enter a vehicle in cold weather, turn the blower fan to HI fora few moments before driving off. This helps clear the intake ducts of snow and moisture, and reduces the chance of fogging the inside of yow windows. 3-7