As the nation’s temperatures continue to rise, now is a good time to consider how heat generally impacts tire performance. The connection between tire pressure and heat. It’s possible that the two have a more complicated relationship than you may imagine. What does it mean, for instance, to have a single heated tire? We’ll go over the fundamentals, such as what happens to your tires when the outside temperature rises, and how crucial it is to regularly monitor the performance, temperature, and pressure of your tires.
It is common knowledge that an underinflated tire increases the contact area with the pavement, leading to higher friction and temperature, which can compromise the tire’s integrity. Conversely, an overinflated tire reduces the contact area, causing uneven wear due to the concentrated force and weight of the vehicle on a smaller surface. Maintaining tire pressure within the optimal range is essential to ensure longevity and performance.
Regularly checking tire pressure is a simple yet effective way to keep tires in the Goldilocks zone, neither overinflated nor underinflated. This practice not only helps extend the lifespan of tires but also minimizes the risks associated with extreme temperature fluctuations during travel, especially in hot summer months. By being mindful of tire pressure, drivers can better protect their tires and ensure a safer driving experience overall.
In areas where temperatures regularly reach 105-110 degrees Fahrenheit, tire pressure can experience significant increases. The heat, combined with driving on hot surfaces and generating friction, can cause tires to become overinflated. This poses a serious risk of a blowout, especially when driving on bumpy roads or encountering road hazards.
One recommendation we have is to use a solid steel stem instead of a flexible one. This stem is positioned on the inner dual and curves outward. When rotating your tires, you may need to remove it from the tire and wheel, as it is designed to stay on the inner dual. However, it may also be possible to rotate it to the front wheel.
Additionally, an infrared heat gun can be a valuable tool for diagnosing a hot tire or tire/wheel assembly, as heat is often a sign of resistance caused by factors such as underinflation or issues with brake drums or bearings.
Conclusion and Recommendation!
It is important to be able to detect changes in heat, whether it is due to mechanical failure or external temperature changes. Investing in a reliable tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) with a temperature reader can help you make necessary adjustments based on tire pressure and heat, preventing flat tires.
Check out the TST 507 system, which provides 6 sensors included:
Purchase the TST 507 system on Amazon.com
