Should the car AC be turned on for heating in winter?
4 Answers
Car AC should not be turned on for heating in winter. In summer, when cold air is needed, the AC switch should be activated. Car air conditioning cools by using a compressor to compress refrigerant into high-temperature, high-pressure gas, which is then cooled and delivered into the car via the blower. Heating relies on the engine's heat dissipation system. There is a small fan in the engine compartment that blows the heat collected by the cooling system into the car. The AC button (Air Conditioning) is mainly used for cooling and is more frequently used in summer. Its primary function is to activate the compressor for cooling, so there's no need to press the AC button when cooling is not required. In winter, when using the car's heating system to raise the temperature inside the car, the compressor is not needed. The heat generated by the engine operation is simply directed into the car's air conditioning system.
I've been driving for many years, and it's quite common for the heater not to work in winter, often not a major issue. The most frequent reason is that the engine hasn't warmed up yet; low coolant temperature means insufficient heat, especially on short trips—try waiting a few minutes after starting. Incorrect settings could also be the issue, like having the AC cooling mode on, which only blows cold air. You need to switch to heating or auto mode and turn up the temperature. Once, I had a faulty thermostat that wouldn't deliver heat, or low coolant—just a top-up fixed it. A clogged cabin air filter can also reduce airflow, which cleaning can resolve. Don't underestimate these issues; addressing them promptly can avoid costly repairs and ensure safe driving. Warming up the car before driving in winter is a good practice.
As a new car owner, I was initially confused about why the AC heating wasn't working in winter. Later, I learned that car heating relies on engine heat transfer. After starting the car, press the AUTO button and set a higher temperature (e.g., above 25°C), and the system will automatically adjust to blow warm air. Avoid pressing the cooling button as it counteracts the heating effect. If the air isn't warm enough, check if the filter is clogged or if the external circulation is letting in too much cold air. The automatic climate control settings aren't complicated and become quite convenient with regular use. Don't forget to try the defrost mode when windows fog up—it's a one-button solution that's both hassle-free and reassuring. During maintenance, pay attention to the health of the AC system to avoid wasting fuel costs.
As someone who pays attention to maintenance, there are several points to check when the heating system doesn't work in winter. The core issues lie in the engine temperature control system and the air conditioning control unit. First, check if there's enough coolant - insufficient coolant leads to poor heat transfer. Thermostat failure is common and requires repair or replacement. A clogged cabin air filter affects airflow, so clean or replace it. Setting issues are also frequent, ensure it's not in cooling mode. Address minor problems promptly to avoid costly engine overheating damage. Simple daily maintenance saves hassle.
