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PIP Ventilation question

Discussion in 'Gen 1 Prius Plug-in 2012-2015' started by PhilBlank, Sep 22, 2014.

  1. PhilBlank

    PhilBlank Junior Member

    Joined:
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    Vehicle:
    2014 Prius Plug-in
    Model:
    Plug-in Advanced
    I feel like I should know the answer to this question but I cannot figure it out. Normally, I drive with the AC off and rely on the 'ventilation' to provide some fresh air. Unfortunately, even with the vents open, the airflow is pretty weak. I would like to turn on the fan without turning on the A/C. Is that possible. Even if I turn on the fan, the AC comes on...if I press the A/C button to turn it off, the light goes out but the battery does not regain the 10% lost.

    I always assumed that the 10% loss in range with the A/C was due primarily to the electric compressor. I was hoping to figure out a way to get the fan to work without engaging the compressor.

    Any thoughts?

    Thanks,

    Phil
     
    #1 PhilBlank, Sep 22, 2014
  2. xpcman

    xpcman Senior Member

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    The A/C probably comes on only because you have "auto" selected. If you deselect Auto then you have full control of the fan speed.
     
    #2 xpcman, Sep 22, 2014
  3. john1701a

    john1701a Prius Guru

    Joined:
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    Location:
    Minnesota
    Vehicle:
    2017 Prius Prime
    Model:
    Prime Advanced
    Hello.

    That 10% is nothing but a crude estimate, there to remind you of the potential loss. It doesn't know whether of not the compressor is running, only that the fan is on.

    If you set the temp to LO, disengage Auto, and make sure A/C light isn't illuminated, the air blowing is just from the outside. There is no loss.

    If you'd like confirmation of this or just want to learn more about the system, get an aftermarket gauge... the ELM327 adapter with Torque app it's just $20. You'll see the state-of-charge level didn't actually change.
     
    #3 john1701a, Sep 22, 2014
    -Rozi- likes this.
  4. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

    Joined:
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    Location:
    boston
    Vehicle:
    2012 Prius Plug-in
    Model:
    Plug-in Base
    what john said, feel free to use your fan! no extra charge.:p you'll notice, when you turn the fan off, you get your miles back.
     
    #4 bisco, Sep 23, 2014
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