Does idling with the air conditioning on harm a diesel vehicle?
2 Answers
Idling with the air conditioning on can harm a diesel vehicle. The following are the hazards of idling with the air conditioning on: 1. Reduced battery life: In principle, the air conditioning compressor is driven by the engine, while the air blown by the blower is powered by the battery. When the vehicle is idling, it may not necessarily charge the battery. Excessive power consumption by the blower can lead to battery depletion, thereby affecting the battery's lifespan. 2. Causes carbon buildup: Keeping the air conditioning on requires continuous engine operation. Prolonged idling can also affect the engine. When idling for extended periods, the gasoline sent to the combustion chamber may not burn completely. Incomplete combustion of gasoline produces a large amount of carbon monoxide, and some carbon deposits may accumulate and adhere. Since the air flow into the engine during idling is low, the scrubbing effect on carbon deposits is minimal. This increases the risk of carbon buildup in the engine.
As an automotive technician, I often deal with similar issues. Idling with the AC on is indeed harmful to diesel vehicles. When the engine operates at low RPMs, combustion efficiency is poor, and the working AC compressor increases the load, leading to incomplete combustion, which can easily cause carbon buildup and increased emissions. Over time, this can lead to clogged fuel injectors, increased cylinder wear, and even shorten the engine's lifespan. It is recommended not to idle with the AC on for more than half an hour, and avoid using it in enclosed spaces to prevent overheating. If it must be used, first ventilate and cool the area with a fan to reduce the burden on the engine. Regularly cleaning the air filter and exhaust system can help mitigate the effects.
