Do You Need to Turn on AC When Using the Car's Heater?
2 Answers
You do not need to turn on the AC when using the car's heater because the AC button controls the air conditioning compressor, which is only responsible for cooling and has no relation to the heating function. When you need to turn on the heater, simply activate the air conditioning system and adjust the temperature. How the Heater Works: In winter, when using the car's heater, the system does not rely on a separate machine to generate heat. Instead, it utilizes the residual heat produced by the engine during operation. The engine naturally generates excess heat while running, and to maintain normal operation, it requires cooling. The heater function transfers this engine heat into the car's interior through the air vents. After Pressing the AC Button: The compressor clutch engages, and the engine drives the compressor to operate, causing the car's air conditioning to cool. Therefore, there is no need to press the AC button when using the heater. Principle of Air Conditioning Cooling: The car's air conditioning system cools by continuously compressing the refrigerant, utilizing its phase change to achieve cooling. When the AC button is pressed, the compressor starts running. The AC Button: The AC button in a car is the air conditioning cooling switch, which controls the compressor. 'A/C' stands for 'air conditioning,' and its function in the car can be understood as the cooling switch. When the A/C light is on, it indicates that the compressor is running, increasing engine load and fuel consumption. Only when this button is pressed will the compressor work, and the air blown by the blower will be cold. Pressing the AC button activates the compressor.
I was confused about this when I first started driving. Actually, you don't need to turn on the AC for hot air. The hot air is generated from the engine's heat, which is transferred through the coolant to the heater core. Once the fan blows, it becomes warm air. The AC is the compressor, specifically used for cooling and dehumidifying. Turning it on consumes fuel and increases fuel consumption, which isn't really necessary. Unless it's particularly humid weather, like when the car windows keep fogging up in winter or during the humid spring season, turning on the AC can help dehumidify and make the hot air dry the car interior faster. Most of the time, just set the temperature and turn off the AC button directly—don't waste fuel money. Develop the habit of checking the control panel, turning on the eco mode or manually turning off the AC. It's simple, hassle-free, and eco-friendly.
