What Should You Pay Attention to When Sleeping in a Car with the Air Conditioning On in Summer?
2 Answers
It is best to choose a relatively open area and leave the window slightly open when resting, as when the vehicle is stationary, carbon monoxide produced by the engine can enter the car. If the air does not circulate, the high concentration of carbon monoxide in the car can be life-threatening. The maintenance methods for car air conditioning are as follows: 1. Do not adjust the air conditioning vent direction randomly: The air conditioning vents should be adjusted reasonably. Based on the principle that cold air sinks and hot air rises, when using the cooling function, the vents should be directed upward, and when using the heating function, the vents should be directed downward. 2. Start the air conditioning periodically in winter: In some areas, air conditioning may not be needed in winter, but prolonged disuse can lead to aging of rubber seals and drying of lubricating oil on internal components. Therefore, it is necessary to start the air conditioning regularly to ensure lubrication of the system and maintain good condition. It is recommended to start the air conditioning once a week in winter. 3. Avoid using the air conditioning for too long: Prolonged use of the air conditioning can cause excessive pressure on the condenser, which can significantly damage the cooling system. Therefore, each use of the air conditioning should not be too long. If the temperature inside the car is already comfortable, turn off the air conditioning for a while and then turn it back on later. 4. In summer, ventilate and cool the car before switching to internal circulation: Since the temperature inside the car is higher than outside, it is recommended to open the windows for ventilation first to expel the hot air inside. Once the temperature inside the car has dropped, switch the air conditioning to internal circulation. 5. Avoid using the internal circulation mode for too long: Internal circulation means the air is recirculated within the closed space of the car, leading to a continuous decrease in oxygen levels. Additionally, if gasoline in the cylinders does not burn completely, carbon monoxide from the engine may leak into the car, worsening the air quality inside and potentially harming the occupants.
Be extra cautious about the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning when sleeping in a car with the air conditioning on during summer. When the car is idling, exhaust fumes from the engine may seep into the vehicle through gaps, especially in enclosed spaces or areas with poor air circulation. I recommend leaving the window slightly open while sleeping to ensure proper ventilation, and it's best to choose an open, well-ventilated parking spot. Additionally, avoid setting the air conditioning too low—around 26 degrees Celsius is ideal, as excessively cold temperatures can lead to catching a cold. It's safest to limit sleep time to no more than half an hour. Before sleeping, it's crucial to check that there are no obstructions around the exhaust pipe.