Is it okay to start the car and turn on the air conditioning without moving?
3 Answers
It is acceptable to idle the car with the air conditioning on. Here is some relevant information: 1. Idling precautions: The main concern when idling the car with the air conditioning on is the water temperature, especially for older cars with mechanical fans. Mechanical fans are driven by the engine crankshaft, and at idle speed, the crankshaft rotates slower, causing the cooling fan to spin slower as well. Prolonged idling can lead to insufficient engine cooling and result in overheating. 2. Carbon deposit formation: Carbon deposits form whenever the engine is running, not just when idling with the air conditioning on. In fact, idling with the air conditioning on produces minimal carbon deposits. The amount of carbon deposits generated during idling is similar to that during steady-speed driving and is much less compared to the deposits formed during acceleration and deceleration while driving.
I drive a lot and enjoy tinkering with cars, so I think it's entirely possible to start the car and run the AC without moving, but there are some potential issues to be aware of. In reality, the car's AC system relies on the engine-driven compressor, so the AC can operate even if you're not driving. However, idling for long periods with the AC on wastes a significant amount of fuel—averaging one to two liters of gasoline per hour—which is bad for both your wallet and the environment. More critically, if you're parked in a poorly ventilated area like a garage, toxic gases from the exhaust can accumulate, potentially causing oxygen deprivation or fainting in the car, which is a serious safety risk. It's best to avoid doing this in enclosed spaces. If you want to cool off in the car during summer, try to drive to an open area first before turning on the AC. Additionally, frequent idling accelerates engine wear and increases maintenance costs. While it's fine occasionally, don't make it a habit.
As an environmentally conscious individual, I often research the environmental impact of car usage. Let me tell you that starting your car and running the AC without moving is technically possible but not recommended. This practice increases fuel consumption and carbon emissions. Data shows that idling with AC consumes about 10% extra fuel, equivalent to emitting several additional tons of CO2 annually. Moreover, engine idling is inefficient and accelerates air pollution. From a safety perspective, with windows closed, carbon monoxide levels can rise rapidly, posing life-threatening risks. I suggest using this method only in emergencies or for brief outdoor situations like waiting for friends - just a few minutes at most. Normally, it's better to turn off the engine when parked and use fans or open windows for ventilation, which is more energy-efficient. Long-term idling with AC also harms your vehicle by wearing down the battery.
