Should the AC Switch Be Turned On When Using Car Air Conditioning in Winter?
3 Answers
When using car air conditioning in winter, the AC switch should not be turned on. More details about using car air conditioning in winter are as follows: 1. The AC button is the cooling switch for the car air conditioning. Pressing this button activates the air conditioning compressor, and the air blown out by the blower is cold. 2. In cold winter, when using the car air conditioning, simply adjust the temperature to the highest setting and turn on the air conditioning switch. Do not press the "AC" button, as this is the cooling button, which requires the most work from the air conditioning system and consumes the most fuel. 3. The hot air from the air conditioning does not require "cooling." The car can completely heat the air blown out by the air conditioning using the heat generated by the engine's operation.
Should you turn on the AC switch when using the heater in winter? Absolutely yes. The AC switch controls the air conditioning compressor, which helps dehumidify the air and prevents windshield fogging. Although the warm air comes from the engine, without the AC, the air remains humid—especially on rainy, snowy days or when the windows are cold—leading to instant fogging that obstructs visibility, posing a serious hazard. With over a decade of driving experience, I once tried saving fuel by not using the AC, only to end up wiping the windshield multiple times during a long trip, nearly causing an accident. Since then, I’ve kept the AC on, ensuring clear visibility and much safer driving. Modern cars consume minimal extra fuel with the AC on, barely affecting your budget. Remember: Turn on both the heater and AC right after starting the car, set the temperature around 25°C, adjust the fan to medium, and enjoy a dry, warm, and comfortable cabin. Regularly check the cabin air filter, and occasionally run the AC in winter to disinfect the system, preventing bacterial growth and maintaining a healthy driving environment.
Turning on the AC in winter is actually quite practical, especially for quick defogging. In terms of fuel consumption, many worry that using the AC wastes gas, but the compressor only adds a minimal load. Modern cars are well-optimized, so the impact on fuel efficiency is negligible. Driving in the north with frequent snow, I find the AC helps quickly dehumidify, avoiding the need to repeatedly wipe the windshield or adjust the temperature, thus reducing distractions. When the AC works with the engine's heating system, the air becomes drier, improving comfort—no more damp or chilly interiors. Personally, I start with both heating and AC, then sometimes turn off the AC once the windshield is clear to save a bit of fuel, but safety comes first. By the way, setting the temperature above 20°C is ideal—not too high to save energy and make the trip more comfortable.