Is driving with the windows open harmful to your hearing? Is it more fuel-efficient? Should you opt for closed or open windows while driving? Let’s take a new look at these issues.
Imagine this: It’s a serene early morning, the clock ticking at 7:45 AM. With the freeway almost empty, you travel along at a relaxed 55 MPH, savoring the cool breeze through your open windows. Isn’t it excessive to run the car’s air conditioner on such a lovely day? After all, why waste precious gas?
But the question is: Is driving with the windows rolled down potentially dangerous to your ears?
What are the potential risks connected to open window driving, according to research?
Think it’s not that loud? British scientists carried out trials using different types of vehicles, ranging from Mazdas to Aston Martins, during times when there was less traffic, driving at speeds of 50, 60, and 70 miles per hour.
Their findings were consistent: irrespective of the vehicle model or speed, driving with windows down exposed the driver to a near-constant noise level of 89 decibels.
Does this noise level present a risk of irreversible hearing damage?
Exposure to 85 decibels for 8 hours can definitely cause permanent harm to one’s hearing.
In congested traffic conditions where exposure surpasses 100 decibels, hearing damage can occur within a mere 15 minutes.
What factors cause a rise in noise levels when windows are down?
While your car may seem noisy, a number of factors can exacerbate the decibel levels.
Engine and automobile types
Most gas engines generate about 85 decibels of noise caused by the rapid explosions in their cylinders, representing approximately 80% of gas-powered automobiles. However, hybrids, electric cars, or smaller 4-cylinder engines might provide a quieter ride. On the other hand, sports cars like Ferraris are capable of more than 100 decibels of noise, particularly when operating in lower gears.
Resistance to Wind
Air rushing past your vehicle can produce noticeable whistling and whooshing noises, adding significantly to the total ambient sound, even in cars known for their quiet ride. Studies have shown that cyclists face around 85 decibels of wind resistance at only 15 MPH, escalating to 120 decibels at 60 MPH. Driving with the windows open can have a noticeable impact on your hearing, particularly since cars encounter increased wind resistance.
Increased traffic leads to louder sounds
Every car that goes by in multiple lanes adds to the overall noise level. In addition to the noise of the engine, you are also exposed to the rush of air created by other vehicles passing by, which adds to a louder overall environment.
Tips for minimizing risks and ensuring safe driving
If you enjoy driving with windows open, think about these steps to minimize hearing loss risks:
- Take breaks when you are on long drives, varying between windows open and closed.
- One way for drivers of convertibles to reduce noise exposure is to put up the windows while keeping the roof open.
- Use smartphone applications to monitor the levels of noise in typical traffic conditions (avoid utilizing them when operating a vehicle).
- To avoid being exposed to loud noises over 100 decibels for an extended time period, it is advisable to keep your windows up when driving in heavy traffic.
- Refrain from drowning out traffic noise with loud music, as it can worsen hearing damage.
- When operating a motorcycle or bicycle, consider purchasing helmets that are especially designed to decrease the impact of traffic noise.
- It’s important to keep a close eye on your hearing health, especially if you frequently drive with the windows up.
In conclusion, driving with windows open subjects you to numerous sources of noise, including engine and wind noise, potentially impacting your hearing health.
By adopting precautionary precaustions, you can protect your hearing while enjoying the freedom of open-road driving.
Get in touch with us today if you are concerned about noise-related hearing loss.