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