Tesla S Owner's Manual page 100

3. Choose how air is drawn into Model S:
4. Choose where air flows into the cabin. You can choose more than one location:
Note: When air is directed to the foot-level vents, approximately one third of the air continues
to flow to the windshield vents to assist in defogging. However, when air is directed to the
face-level vents, no air flows to the windshield because the air flowing through the face-level
vents may be adequate to assist in defogging the windshield.
5. Touch the arrows to set the speed of the fan.
Note: Adjusting the fan speed may change the selected setting for how air is drawn into
Model S in order to increase or reduce airflow.
Using the Touchscreen
Outside air is drawn into Model S (see
Although less efficient than recirculating the air in very hot or low climate
conditions, this setting draws more air into the rear seating areas, and is
recommended when occupants are seated in the Tesla built-in rear facing
child seats.
Air inside Model S is recirculated. This prevents outside air (traffic fumes)
from entering, but reduces dehumidifying performance. Recirculating the
air is the most efficient way to cool the front cabin area. To prevent the
windshield from fogging in some conditions, briefly change the setting
every hour to draw in outside air.
If your Model S is equipped with the HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate
Air) filter, you can ensure the best possible quality of air inside the cabin.
When selected, outside air is drawn in and filtered through the medical-
grade HEPA filter in addition to the secondary filtration systems. The
HEPA filter is extremely effective at removing particles, including
pollution, allergens, bacteria, pollen, mold spores, and viruses. Both the
HEPA filter and the secondary filtration system also contain activated
carbon to remove a broad spectrum of odors and gases. When you
engage the HEPA option, the fan operates at the highest speed. In
addition, the positive pressure inside the cabin minimizes the amount of
outside air that can leak into the vehicle.
Note: Some gases, such as carbon monoxide, are not effectively removed
by activated carbon.
Foot-level vents
Face-level vents
Windshield vents
Climate Controls
Ventilation on page 100).
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