Can You Get Poisoned by Running the Air Conditioner While Parked?
3 Answers
Running the air conditioner while parked can lead to poisoning. Here are some precautions to keep in mind when using the air conditioner while parked: 1. Correct way to use the air conditioner while parked: It is recommended to direct the air vents upward, and avoid frequently adjusting the direction of the air vents. When cooling, point the vents upward since cold air tends to sink, which enhances the cooling effect. Drivers should always start the engine before turning on the air conditioner and develop good habits such as starting the engine before driving and turning off the air conditioner before shutting down the engine when parking. Additionally, ensure proper ventilation before turning on the air conditioner. In summer, ventilate the car to cool it down before switching to the internal circulation mode, and alternate between internal and external circulation to allow fresh air into the cabin. 2. Three things to avoid: Avoid prolonged use of the air conditioner: Extended use increases the load on the cooling system and is also harmful to health. Do not sleep in a closed car with the air conditioner running: Poor ventilation can allow carbon monoxide from the engine to seep into the car, potentially causing carbon monoxide poisoning. Avoid smoking in a car with the air conditioner on: With windows and doors closed, smoke cannot escape and may irritate the eyes and respiratory system. If smoking cannot be avoided, adjust the air conditioner's ventilation control to the exhaust setting.
I used to often rest in the car with the air conditioning on while parked. Once during summer, I took a nap in the garage with the engine idling and the AC running, and it nearly ended in disaster. I closed my eyes for less than half an hour before feeling dizzy and lightheaded. When I tried to get up, the room was spinning. Later, at the hospital, I learned it was carbon monoxide poisoning. The cause was the exhaust fumes emitted by the engine at idle. If the car is parked in an enclosed space or the exhaust pipe is old and leaking, carbon monoxide can silently seep into the car. This stuff has no color or smell, and inhaling too much can cause headaches and nausea at best, or lead to unconsciousness or even death at worst. So now, I never do this in garages or underground parking lots. If I need to rest, I do it in an open area with the windows slightly open for ventilation—much safer. Everyone, be careful—don’t sacrifice your health for comfort.
As a mother of two, I'm extremely concerned about such matters. The risk of carbon monoxide poisoning from idling the car with AC on is alarmingly high—that invisible killer is hard to guard against, especially for small children whose bodies are more vulnerable. A friend of mine once waited for her kid after school in a residential parking lot with the AC running, dozed off briefly, and woke up to find her child turning pale and rushed to the hospital. Research shows prolonged engine idling accumulates exhaust fumes inside the car—the more enclosed the space, the greater the danger. We parents must educate our kids never to sleep in a car with AC running. If stopping is unavoidable, choose open areas and crack the windows slightly. Prevention is paramount—this concerns the safety of the entire family.
