Is it a problem to turn on the AC when using the heater?
2 Answers
Turning on the AC when using the heater will increase fuel consumption. Function of the AC button: The AC button controls the air conditioning compressor. In summer when using the air conditioner, you must turn on the AC button to activate the cold air. However, the heater only utilizes the internal heat circulation of the car and does not require the air conditioning compressor to be activated. Therefore, when using the heater, you only need to adjust the air conditioning controls without turning on the AC switch. Heater: The heater operates using the heat generated by the engine during operation: After the engine's cooling system dissipates heat from the engine, a fan directs this heat into the car to create warm air. When the heater is not in use, the fan stops, the heating vents close, and the dissipated heat is released entirely into the atmosphere.
From my years of driving experience, turning on the AC while using the heater is generally fine, but it depends on specific needs. For example, in humid or foggy weather, using the AC can help dehumidify, making the windows clear faster and improving driving safety. The engine load will increase slightly, consuming about 5-10% more fuel. This is not noticeable on short trips but may accumulate some extra costs on long journeys. It's recommended to use it only when necessary, such as for defogging or quick temperature adjustment. If the weather is dry, using only the heater is more energy-efficient. This operation won't damage the car, but frequent long-term use may accelerate compressor wear, so it's advisable to adjust usage reasonably based on the vehicle's age and condition.
