Is There Any Impact When Idling with Air Conditioning On for Half an Hour?
2 Answers
Introduction to the Impact of Idling with Air Conditioning On: Increased fuel consumption, additional load on the engine leading to wear and tear, and increased wear on the belts. Prolonged idling can affect engine carbon buildup, making it easier for carbon deposits to form in the cylinders. Below are methods to reduce fuel consumption: 1. Check the Air Conditioning System in Summer: Air conditioning malfunctions are a significant cause of high fuel consumption. Poor cooling performance can lead to higher fan speeds and lower temperatures to achieve a cooling effect. 2. Frequent Hard Braking: Frequent hard braking is a primary reason for consistently high fuel consumption. While ensuring safe driving, make full use of the vehicle's inertia. 3. Avoid Overusing Air Conditioning in Small-Displacement Vehicles: For vehicles exposed to the sun, it's not advisable to turn on the air conditioning immediately after entering. First, open the windows and set the fan to a higher speed without turning on the air conditioning to expel the hot air inside. Wait until the vehicle has cooled down moderately before turning on the air conditioning.
It's generally fine to idle the car with the AC on for half an hour, but if the environment isn't well-ventilated, such as in an underground or enclosed garage, exhaust fumes can accumulate, posing a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. I recently saw an accident report about this in the news, so extreme caution is advised. Additionally, the air inside the car can quickly become stale, making occupants feel dizzy or uncomfortable, especially for elderly people or children. If you need to rest this way, it's best to choose an open outdoor area, crack the windows slightly for ventilation, and ensure safety. Although half an hour seems short, prolonged exposure can impact health over time. It might be better to step out of the car for a stretch or find a shady spot to wait—it’s much safer.
