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August 01
In the UAE, which has a hot climate and great distances to cover on motorways, it is essential that we pay attention to tire performance for safety and efficiency. Another highly debated issue among car owners is the choice between Nitrogen vs Air in Tyres inflation. Although both options are readily available, many still debate which is the best for our harsh weather and road conditions. At Etarat Online, we recognize the importance of proper tire care, which is the focus of this blog. We are presenting the pros and cons of each option to help you make a more informed decision.
In recent years, the use of nitrogen in tyre inflation has grown, and we also see a significant adoption by owners of performance vehicles and commercial fleets. What we are seeing is that nitrogen's primary benefit is in tyre pressure stability. Also, unlike normal air, which has smaller molecules more of which pass through the rubber of the tyre's inner lining, nitrogen molecules are larger, which in turn causes a lower escape rate out of the tyre. This results in a slow pressure drop, which in turn means your tyres will maintain the proper inflation pressure for a much longer time, and so there is a reduced need for you to top them up. For the UAE driver who may cover a significant distance in their car or experiences considerable temperature changes from one stretch of road to another, this benefit translates to improved performance and fuel economy.
On the other hand, it is the normal air, which makes up 78% of the atmosphere, that remains the top choice for inflation. We have easy access to it at any fuel station, and in many cases, it is free. However, air also contains a mixture that includes oxygen and water, which, over time, play a role in the internal tire environment. In the UAE's hot climate, this mix of elements causes increased tyre pressure change and also brings about internal corrosion in steel-belted tires.
In the case of the UAE's extreme climate, the issue of whether to use nitrogen vs air in tyres is very much to the fore. With summer temperatures often exceeding 45°C, we recognize that tire pressure maintenance is a critical issue. Over-inflating or under-inflating our tires causes uneven wear and is also a risk factor for blowouts, especially during long trips on hot roads.
Additionally, nitrogen, a non-reactive gas, plays a crucial role in maintaining pressure more effectively in the face of temperature changes, which is favored by those who value safety.
Another reason many UAE drivers opt for nitrogen is its effect on tire heat. What we see is that tires filled with nitrogen run cooler, which in turn reduces the issue of blowouts—a significant concern in the summertime. Additionally, less heat means less wear on the tread, resulting in a longer tire life. This is ultimately a more economical choice in the long run, particularly for those who log high miles or use their cars for work.
However, we observe that the choice of gases used is a concern. Nitrogen isn't as readily accessible as compressed air, and refilling or topping up with it requires visiting specialized service stations, which are often more expensive. In an emergency, if a nitrogen-filled tire is topped up with regular air, which can happen, it diminishes the nitrogen benefits.
That said, many drivers still see the long-term benefits as surpassing these periodic issues.
From a cost perspective, compressed air is the winner in terms of convenience; however, over time, nitrogen outperforms it in terms of performance and tire health. Ultimately, the choice is based on your driving habits, the type of car you have, and how often you are willing to check your tire pressure.
When choosing between options for tire inflation, consider factors beyond cost and convenience. While air is sufficient for the average daily driver, nitrogen is preferable if you are in a more intense driving environment or if you want to extend the life of your tires. What we see with nitrogen includes improved pressure retention, reduced oxidation, and enhanced safety, all of which cater to the specific needs of driving in the UAE. How tyres affect brake efficiency is also closely tied to inflation levels—under-inflated or poorly maintained tyres can reduce braking performance, especially on hot roads or during emergency stops.
At Etarat Online, we offer nitrogen inflation for those who cover a great deal of mileage, operate commercial vehicles, or own luxury performance cars. For the everyday driver, we provide standard air, which is an excellent option if you regularly check your tyre pressure stability. The product you choose is up to you, but what we can tell you here at Etarat Online is that consistency in tire care is key to a safe and efficient ride.
Ultimately, the choice of tire pressure between Nitrogen vs Air in Tyres is determined by your specific driving requirements and environmental conditions. In the UAE, we encounter high temperatures and rough terrain, which complement nitrogen's strengths, particularly for those concerned with performance and wear resistance. At the same time, though, air is an excellent option for everyday use if maintained properly. Also, check out Etarat Online for professional tire care and to find out what is best for your car.
If you are a frequent driver or travel long distances, nitrogen in tires may improve performance and stability, which you will notice, especially in the UAE's heat.
While it may not be the best solution, using air to top up nitrogen-filled tires in emergencies is acceptable. Also, this reduces the performance of the nitrogen inflation.
Nitrogen decreases pressure drop, which in turn means you will only have to check it once a month, as opposed to more frequent checks of air.
Yes, over the extended time frame of use, tires with nitrogen-filled gas will have better fuel efficiency.
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