Can I Turn on the Heater While the Car is Parked?
2 Answers
You can turn on the heater while the car is parked, but avoid keeping the windows closed with the heater running for extended periods, as this can easily lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. The heating principle of a car's air conditioning system is quite simple. When heating, the high-temperature coolant from the engine flows through the heater core, and the air blown by the blower also passes through the heater core, allowing warm air to be emitted from the air vents. The refrigerant used in car air conditioning is R134a, which needs to be replaced periodically. If the refrigerant is not replaced for a long time, it can result in reduced cooling efficiency and slower cooling speeds. It is recommended to regularly replace the car air conditioning refrigerant during routine vehicle use.
You can turn on the heater while parked, but the engine must remain running. This is because the car's heating system primarily relies on the engine's heat being transferred to the air conditioning system. If the engine is turned off, the air blowing out will be cold or there will be no airflow. Personally, when I'm driving, I often use the heater while waiting for someone or stuck in traffic—it's quite convenient. However, you should be cautious: if you leave the heater on for an extended period while parked, especially in an enclosed garage, carbon monoxide emissions from the engine can accumulate and pose a poisoning risk. Additionally, this also consumes fuel, leading to a slight increase in fuel consumption. For safety, I recommend only using the heater in well-ventilated areas and not keeping it on for too long—moderation is key. For electric vehicles, the heater may be powered by an electric heating element, but this also drains the battery, and prolonged use might require activating the power supply. In short, as long as you use it reasonably, there's no need to worry too much.
