How Long Does It Take to Get Poisoned When Idling with the Heater On?

[Arabella]

Idling with the heater on for more than an hour can lead to symptoms of poisoning, and prolonged exposure can be life-threatening. Safety precautions when using the heater: Keeping the heater on while idling for extended periods can easily cause carbon monoxide poisoning. Therefore, when using the heater, avoid directing the vents toward people. Additionally, it’s best to crack the windows slightly, use a car humidifier, or place a damp towel inside the car. Drinking plenty of water is also recommended. Winter heater usage tips: Do not turn on the heater immediately after starting the car. If the engine is not warmed up, the heater will not only be ineffective but also consume a lot of battery power. Instead, start the engine and let it warm up first. Once the engine temperature rises, then turn on the heater. Initially, set the air circulation to external mode to expel all the cold air from the cabin, then switch to internal circulation for more efficient heating.

[VonReagan]

I also encountered this issue when driving my kids around. It's very comfortable to keep the heater on while parked in winter, but it comes with risks. Carbon monoxide poisoning can occur at any time, depending on the vehicle's emissions, the size of the space, and the level of air circulation. From my own experience, in a closed garage or a car with tightly shut windows, you might start feeling dizzy or have a headache within 15-30 minutes. In severe cases, breathing difficulties can occur after 30 minutes. A friend of mine accidentally fell asleep while waiting in the car and passed out after just 20 minutes, but fortunately, they were rescued in time. For safety, it's best to crack open a window when using the heater while parked to ensure fresh air. If you must wait, don't stay in the car for more than 10 minutes without stepping out to move around. Health comes first—don't risk your life just to stay warm.

[OSimon]

As a car owner, I often turn on the heater to keep warm while waiting for friends in parking lots. However, it doesn't take long to risk carbon monoxide poisoning, as the gas emitted by the running engine accumulates quickly. In confined spaces like indoor parking garages, dizziness can set in within just 5-10 minutes. I've heard of cases where people lost their lives after running the heater in a garage for half an hour. Now, I'm extra cautious—I either turn off the engine or open the windows for ventilation when parked. Also, choosing an open area to park can significantly reduce the risk. Prevention is key; don't sacrifice safety for temporary comfort. Developing good habits can protect both you and your family.

[ReaganRose]

This is a serious topic. The time it takes for carbon monoxide poisoning when idling with the heater on depends on the vehicle type and environment. Newer vehicles with better emission controls may be safer, while older vehicles pose higher risks. In poorly ventilated areas, symptoms like nausea, fatigue, or blurred vision may appear within 10-15 minutes. If these signs occur, immediately turn off the engine and open windows. Prolonged exposure beyond 20 minutes can be life-threatening. The safety recommendation is to minimize engine idling time and check for normalcy after each short usage.