What are the hazards of idling with the air conditioning on for a long time?
2 Answers
Idling with the air conditioning on for a long time can lead to incomplete combustion in the engine, increasing carbon deposits inside the engine and causing wear and tear on car components. Additionally, when the engine operates only at idle speed, gasoline may not burn completely, producing toxic substances such as carbon monoxide. If the air conditioning is left on while idling for an extended period, people inside the vehicle may experience carbon monoxide poisoning, which is extremely dangerous. Here are some precautions for using the car air conditioning: Air vent direction: Based on the principle that cold air sinks and hot air rises, the correct approach is to direct the vents upward when using the air conditioner and downward when using the heater. Turn off the engine before turning off the air conditioning: Therefore, after each stop, the air conditioning should be turned off before shutting down the engine. Additionally, it is advisable to wait two or three minutes after starting the car, allowing the engine to be properly lubricated, before turning on the air conditioning.
Keeping the engine idling for long periods with the AC on has many hazards. As someone who's been driving for years, I've seen plenty of people do this. Firstly, fuel consumption skyrockets – the engine runs without moving the car, and turning on the AC can easily double fuel usage, which is simply a waste of money. Secondly, it causes engine carbon buildup. Prolonged idling leads to carbon deposits accumulating in the cylinders, affecting power output and even causing vibrations and overheating. The battery also suffers as the AC system continuously drains power, shortening its lifespan. What's more, in enclosed spaces, carbon monoxide can accumulate, posing a serious poisoning risk – extremely dangerous. I remember one summer when I parked and waited for someone with the AC on for two hours while idling – not only did the fuel gauge drop by a third, but the engine light came on. The mechanic later told me it was due to severe carbon buildup. My advice: don't follow this practice. Develop good habits like turning off the engine when parked or opening windows for ventilation. This saves fuel and protects your car, and regular maintenance is also crucial.
