Is it harmful to keep the air conditioning on in the car?

[NatalieLynn]

Here are the specific impacts of prolonged air conditioning use in cars: 1. Reduced vehicle power: The car's air conditioning system is powered by the engine. Prolonged use of the air conditioning consumes part of the car's power, leading to symptoms such as sluggish acceleration or abnormal shaking during driving. 2. Carbon monoxide poisoning: Using the air conditioning in recirculation mode for extended periods while driving can decrease the oxygen level inside the car. 3. Increased risk of catching a cold: Prolonged use of air conditioning creates a significant temperature difference between the inside and outside of the car, making it easier to catch a cold. 4. Increased fuel consumption: Extended use of the air conditioning can cause the car's electrical system to operate under overload, increasing fuel consumption.

[BryceRose]

Keeping the air conditioning on in the car isn't a major issue, but prolonged use can create additional strain. I've seen many vehicles experience increased fuel consumption due to constant AC operation, as the engine has to work harder to burn more fuel. This is especially noticeable when idling with the engine running and AC on while parked, which leads to more obvious fuel waste and accelerates carbon buildup, hastening component wear. Continuous operation of the AC compressor also increases wear, potentially leading to malfunctions requiring repairs after a few years. I recommend using the AC only while driving and turning it off when parked to save energy and protect the engine. Regularly replacing the AC filter to maintain clean airflow is also crucial for prolonged vehicle durability. While using AC in hot summers is necessary, avoid overuse—learning to set reasonable temperatures ensures both comfort and cost savings.

[StLouis]

Our family often uses the car to pick up and drop off the kids, and having the air conditioning on too frequently might affect our health. While the coolness is comfortable, prolonged exposure to cold air can easily cause family members to catch a cold, and poor air circulation may lead to bacterial buildup. I usually switch to the fresh air mode to let in outside air, avoiding air pollution caused by relying solely on recirculation mode. Additionally, keeping the air conditioning on constantly increases fuel consumption, raising household expenses, and puts extra load on the engine, potentially shortening its lifespan. It's fine to use the AC in hot weather, but when it's cooler, opening the windows instead can save resources. Comfort is important, but we shouldn’t overlook potential maintenance costs. Simple adjustments can make car usage safer and more economical.

[DanteDella]

Running the car air conditioning constantly wastes fuel and increases emissions. The AC operation requires engine support, consuming more fuel, especially in traffic jams, which exacerbates pollution. This contributes to carbon emissions and impacts the environment. We can moderately reduce usage, such as turning off the AC and opening windows for ventilation on cooler days. While using AC while driving is sometimes necessary, avoid excessive cooling—protecting the planet is everyone's responsibility.

[RoseMarie]

As a long-distance driver, keeping the air conditioning on all the time is comfortable but fuel-consuming. I've experienced a roughly 10% increase in fuel consumption with the AC on, which is even more noticeable in city driving. Continuous compressor operation may lead to premature failures like refrigerant leaks, requiring costly and time-consuming repairs. I recommend setting the AC temperature not too low while driving and turning it off when parking to save resources. Regular maintenance, including filter replacements, ensures system stability, providing both comfort and extended lifespan.