Can I Turn on the Air Conditioning Without Turning Off the Engine?
2 Answers
You should not turn on the air conditioning without turning off the engine, as it can cause damage to the vehicle. The effects of running the air conditioning without turning off the engine are: 1. It causes the vehicle to start with the air conditioning compressor engaged during the next startup, increasing the load and potentially harming the engine over time; 2. Prolonged idling can produce toxic gases, which may enter the cabin through the air conditioning system, posing a risk of poisoning. The hazards of not turning off the engine include: 1. Increased carbon buildup on pistons and valves, leading to unstable idling; 2. Negative impact on the engine's power performance and lifespan; 3. Poor fuel atomization, resulting in incomplete combustion; 4. Increased leakage in valves and piston rings; 5. Accelerated wear and tear on mechanical components.
Of course you can! When the car's engine is running, the air conditioning system is powered by the engine-driven compressor, so you can definitely run the AC without turning off the engine. However, idling the engine consumes fuel—about one to two liters per hour on average—and increases exhaust emissions, which isn’t very eco-friendly. I recommend turning off the engine if you're parked for more than a minute to save fuel and reduce pollution. If you're waiting in the car on a hot summer day, running the AC for about ten minutes is fine, but keep an eye on the engine temperature to avoid overheating and potential malfunctions. Also, never do this in enclosed spaces like garages or underground parking lots to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning—safety first. Regular maintenance of the AC system, such as replacing filters, can also improve efficiency. In short, you can use the AC anytime while driving, but it’s wiser to use it when necessary to avoid wasting fuel and money.
