Is it okay to run the AC without driving?
2 Answers
Running the AC without driving is acceptable for short periods, but it is not recommended for extended durations. Below are the impacts of running the AC without driving and the working principle of the automotive AC automatic control system: Impacts of running the AC without driving: Running the AC for a long time without driving can lead to increased carbon deposits in the engine. Carbon deposits are quite harmful to the engine. When the engine is idling, the combustible mixture in the cylinders cannot burn completely, resulting in an accumulation of carbon deposits in the engine. Principle of the automotive AC automatic control system: Based on signals from various sensors detecting cabin temperature, evaporator temperature, engine coolant temperature, and other relevant switch signals, the system outputs control signals to regulate the operation of the radiator fan, condenser fan, compressor clutch, blower motor, and air control motor, thereby achieving automatic control of the cabin temperature.
I think running the AC while parked really depends on the situation. If you do this in a gasoline car without starting the engine, you won't get any cool air - just natural ventilation. But if you start the engine, it means idling in place, which wastes fuel, harms the engine, and produces excessive exhaust emissions. Prolonged idling can cause severe carbon buildup in the exhaust system. Most critically, in poorly ventilated garages, the exhaust fumes can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning - this colorless, odorless gas is extremely dangerous. Last year in our neighborhood, someone had to be rushed to the hospital because of this. So unless it's absolutely necessary, I strongly advise against sitting in a parked car with just the AC running.
