5 Tips for Keeping Your Truck Cab Cool This Summer

The hot summer months can make truckers’ lives miserable, as parking their vehicles for long hours outside can heat up the cab to unbearable temperatures. Even with air conditioning, truckers can spend a considerable amount of time sweating in their truck seats before the temperature in the cab is under control.

Fortunately, there are several things truck drivers can do to keep their vehicles cool during the summer months. It’s not just a matter of comfort; it’s also a matter of safety, as drivers who get too hot are at greater risk of health issues, such as heart attacks or kidney stones, and because uncomfortable drivers are less safe drivers.

How to Keep Your Semi Truck Cab Cool in Summer Heat

Keeping your semi truck cab cool in the summer is essential for comfort and safety. Here are five ways to maintain a cooler cab during those hot months:

1. Use Sunshades and Window Covers

Invest in quality sunshades and window covers to block direct sunlight and reduce the interior temperature of the cab. These accessories can significantly lower the amount of heat entering your truck, making it more comfortable and reducing the strain on your air conditioning system.

2. Park in the Shade

Whenever possible, park your truck in shaded areas to prevent the cab from heating up while you're away. This simple step can keep your cab cooler and reduce the amount of time and energy needed to cool it down when you return.

3. Ventilate the Cab

Use window deflectors to keep windows slightly open for ventilation without letting in rain. Proper ventilation helps to keep air circulating, which can reduce heat build-up and keep the interior temperature more comfortable.

4. Use Air Conditioning Wisely

If your truck cabin air conditioner doesn’t seem to be cooling the way it should, get a mechanic to check out the vehicle. Chances are that you need some coolant, but a more serious problem may be present. Taking action now can prevent major hassles later. The last thing you want is your air conditioning to go out on a long trip in July.

5. Install a Ventilated Seat

Truck seats can retain a lot of heat. Semi trucks with ventilated seats keep truckers cool by circulating air through the seats. You can buy custom or regular truck seats with this innovative feature.

How Truck Drivers Can Keep Cool & Stay Healthy in the Heat

In addition to keeping your truck’s cab cool, it’s also important to keep yourself cool when driving during the hot summer months. Here are some tips for truck drivers to maintain well-being while on the road this summer:

• Dress appropriately: Cotton or linen shirts will help draw sweat away from your body, while a broad-brimmed hat will keep the sun out of your eyes and help keep your face from getting sunburned when you’re outside.
• Stay hydrated: Always make sure that you drink plenty of water when you’re on the road. Dehydrated truck drivers are less comfortable, less attentive to the road, and lose their ability to quickly react to road conditions.
• Take regular breaks: Schedule regular breaks to get out of the cab and stretch. Find shaded or air-conditioned areas to rest and cool down. This helps to avoid heat exhaustion and keeps you alert.
• Use cooling towels or ice packs: Keep a few cooling towels or ice packs in your cooler. Placing them on your neck or forehead can quickly bring down your body temperature.
• Eat light and healthy meals: Opt for lighter meals that are easier to digest, such as salads and fruits. Heavy meals can increase your body temperature and make you feel sluggish.
• Monitor your health: Be aware of the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, such as dizziness, nausea, and excessive sweating. If you start to feel unwell, find a cool place to rest and hydrate immediately.

Stay Cool This Summer with Climate-Controlled Seats