How much fuel is consumed by idling with the heater on for one hour?
2 Answers
For a typical family car, when the engine is idling, turning on the car's heater for one hour consumes 1-2 liters of fuel. The specific fuel consumption may vary depending on the model. Hazards of idling with the heater on: 1. Increased fuel consumption and engine carbon deposits: When idling in place, the main impacts on the car are increased fuel consumption and engine carbon deposits. Therefore, to avoid potential engine issues, it is recommended not to leave the car idling for extended periods. 2. Impact on the health of passengers: In an idling state, because the engine is idling, the fuel does not burn completely, producing carbon monoxide. If the windows are not opened, the concentration of carbon monoxide inside the car will gradually increase, potentially leading to carbon monoxide poisoning for the passengers.
This question reminds me that many friends have also asked about it. Fuel consumption when idling with the heater on mainly depends on engine size and vehicle condition, because the heater itself uses the engine's heat and doesn't consume extra fuel, but idling does burn fuel. Generally, a small car burns about 0.6 to 1 liter per hour when idling, while an SUV or larger vehicle may consume 1.5 to 2 liters or more. After driving for several years, I've noticed that this has quite an impact on the environment—idling increases carbon emissions and wastes money, especially in winter when many people leave their heaters running non-stop. It's advisable not to let the car idle for too long; turning off the engine for a while saves fuel and is more eco-friendly. The exact fuel consumption depends on the car model—newer cars are more fuel-efficient, while older ones may consume more. Checking the fuel gauge changes is the most direct way to measure it. If this continues long-term, engine wear will also accelerate.
