Does Using the Heater While Driving Consume More Fuel?

[CatherineAnn]

Using the heater while driving does not consume more fuel. Here are the relevant explanations: 1. Insufficient lubrication: When the car is first started, the engine oil takes some time to lubricate all the components. If the heater is turned on during this period, the lack of lubrication inside the engine increases friction resistance, leading to higher engine load, which definitely consumes more fuel. However, people often mistakenly blame the heater for this. The correct approach is to wait 3-5 minutes after starting the car until the water temperature rises before turning on the heater. 2. Air conditioning: The A/C button controls the air conditioning. Pressing it means the compressor starts working, which increases fuel consumption. The compressor's main function is to cool the air and blow cold air. In cars, the cold air and warm air are two separate systems. The warm air is generated by the car's own heat cycle and does not require the compressor to work.