Does idling with the AC on consume fuel?
2 Answers
Idling with the AC on does consume fuel. The car's air conditioning system is powered by the engine, so as long as the engine is running, it will consume fuel. The amount of fuel consumed varies depending on the vehicle model. Additional information: Hazards of idling with the AC on: 1. Carbon monoxide risk: When the car is stationary with the AC running and the windows and doors are closed, the air inside the car cannot circulate. If carbon monoxide from the engine leaks into the car, it can accumulate and increase in concentration, leading to carbon monoxide poisoning for the occupants. 2. Impact on the battery: Running the AC or other electrical devices (multimedia, lights, cigarette lighter, phone charging, etc.) while the engine is off can overload the battery. Over time, this can easily lead to a drained battery, difficulty starting the engine, and damage to the battery.
Of course, idling with the AC on consumes fuel! The engine needs to power the compressor for cooling, so fuel is burned as long as the AC is running. Last time I waited for someone, I specifically observed that an average family car consumes about 1-2 liters of fuel per hour when idling with the AC on, depending on the model and engine displacement. Doing this for extended periods is also bad for the car—carbon buildup forms in the engine, and the battery is under heavy load. If it's really hot in summer, opening the windows for ventilation is much more fuel-efficient than running the AC, or you can park in the shade and turn off the engine. I recommend not exceeding 20 minutes, otherwise you'll visibly see the fuel gauge dropping.
