What are the hazards of idling the engine with the air conditioning on?
3 Answers
The hazards of idling the engine with the air conditioning on are as follows: 1. Leads to excessive carbon monoxide concentration: When the car's engine is running, if the gasoline in the cylinders does not burn completely, it can produce high concentrations of carbon monoxide. If the car is stationary with the air conditioning on and the windows are closed, the air inside the car cannot circulate. If carbon monoxide from the engine leaks into the car, it can gradually accumulate and increase in concentration, leading to poisoning or even death. 2. Causes long-term battery depletion: The blower is powered by the battery. When the car is idling, it does not necessarily charge the battery. Excessive power consumption by the blower can lead to long-term battery depletion. 3. Increases fuel consumption and engine carbon deposits: Running the air conditioning for long periods while the car is stationary, which is an idling state with the air conditioning on, will increase fuel consumption and also lead to more engine carbon deposits.
Having worked in an auto factory for years, I've frequently encountered faults caused by idling with the AC on. At engine idle, the low RPM leads to incomplete fuel combustion, resulting in heavy carbon buildup that clogs fuel injectors and cylinder walls. Over time, the car loses acceleration power and may even experience starting difficulties. The AC compressor, driven by a belt, is prone to overheating and damage under idle load. Fuel consumption also skyrockets, wasting several extra liters per hour - a pure money drain. More critically, it increases environmental pollution through heightened emissions. I recommend turning off the AC when parked and avoiding idling beyond 10 minutes. Regular carbon cleaning is crucial, otherwise repair costs will be steep.
As a parent who often drives with kids, I've experienced this firsthand. One time, while waiting for my child at the supermarket entrance, I left the engine idling with the AC on for half an hour, and afterward, the car developed issues. The mechanic said there was severe carbon buildup. When the engine operates in this state, combustion is incomplete, fuel doesn't burn cleanly, and parts wear out faster. The heavy load from the AC can also drain the battery. The key issue is the high fuel consumption, which adds up to significant extra costs over a month. I've since learned my lesson—now I turn off the engine and open the windows for ventilation when parked, saving money and protecting the car. It's all about forming good habits; don't overlook small things that can lead to big troubles.
