Will You Suffer from Oxygen Deprivation When Staying in the Car for a Long Time?
3 Answers
Staying in the car for a long time will not cause oxygen deprivation. However, if the windows are closed and the air conditioning is set to recirculate the interior air, there is a possibility of oxygen deprivation or carbon monoxide poisoning. Therefore, when staying in the car for an extended period, it is advisable to switch the air conditioning to the external circulation mode to allow air exchange between the inside and outside of the car, or simply open the car windows to ensure proper air circulation. Below are the functions of a car air conditioning system: 1. Temperature Regulation: This is the primary function of car air conditioning. In summer, the cooling system generates cold air to lower the temperature inside the car. In winter, except for large commercial vehicles that use independent combustion heaters, most vehicles utilize the residual heat from the engine for heating. 2. Humidity Regulation: Humidity significantly affects passenger comfort. The humidity inside the car should generally be maintained between 30% and 70%. Standard car air conditioning systems do not have the capability to regulate humidity; this can only be achieved through ventilation systems or advanced luxury cars equipped with integrated heating and cooling air conditioners. 3. Airflow Regulation: The speed and direction of airflow greatly influence comfort. If the air is blowing directly, the speed should be limited to a certain range when the temperature is appropriate. The airflow speed can be adjusted according to passengers' living environments, ages, health conditions, and personal preferences for warmth or coolness. 4. Air Purification: The quality of air inside the car is crucial for ensuring comfort.
Staying in a car for a long time can indeed lead to the possibility of hypoxia. The interior environment of a car is relatively enclosed, and if the doors and windows are tightly shut, poor air circulation can cause the accumulation of exhaled carbon dioxide, gradually reducing oxygen levels. This may result in dizziness, fatigue, or even more serious health issues. Especially when the engine is running, if parked in a garage or confined space, carbon monoxide from exhaust fumes may seep into the car, further increasing the risk of hypoxia. Personally, during long drives or camping trips, I always pay attention to this—usually by slightly opening a window or activating the air conditioning's external circulation mode to introduce fresh air. Modern cars are designed with ventilation, but if completely sealed, the air exchange rate per hour is insufficient, leading to faster oxygen depletion. Children and the elderly need to be particularly cautious. It’s advisable to take regular breaks outside the car or maintain interior ventilation to effectively prevent such situations. In short, safety comes first—don’t underestimate this seemingly minor issue.
Don't overlook the oxygen issue when sitting in the car for extended periods. Think about it—the confined space means that without opening windows or ventilation, the air you breathe keeps recirculating. Carbon dioxide levels rise while fresh oxygen decreases, leading to fatigue and discomfort. I've learned from experience during long traffic jams to crack the window periodically or use the air conditioning's recirculation toggle. When the engine is running, beware of exhaust backflow, especially in underground parking or tunnels where risks are higher. Prevention is simple: just a slight window opening suffices, or set the AC to fresh air mode to promote airflow. Don't assume new cars are immune—even with excellent sealing, limits exist. Chronic neglect may cause mild hypoxia symptoms like headaches. Cultivating good habits is key to ensuring fresh, healthy air inside the vehicle.
