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Running air VS AC?

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Technical Discussion' started by uhohmylo, Jan 9, 2013.

  1. uhohmylo

    uhohmylo New Member

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    So I know running the AC lowers gas mileage, but what about just running the air system, especially when you just start that car. When running the air with AC off I can still control if I want it colder or not. Is that because the car is just not heating the air from outside or what? I know when you start the car you shouldn't run the AC or heater until it's warmed up so I want to make sure if I just run the air with no AC on it's okay. Thanks :)
     
    #1 uhohmylo, Jan 9, 2013
  2. maestro8

    maestro8 Nouveau Member

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    Sounds like your head is full of bad information.

    Why are you worrying about a fan?

    Relax. Make yourself comfortable. Enjoy your driving experience.
     
    #2 maestro8, Jan 9, 2013
  3. Patrick Wong

    Patrick Wong DIY Enthusiast

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    It is OK to run the cabin ventilation system with the AC compressor and the heater turned off.

    It is OK to run the cabin ventilation system with the AC compressor turned on. Obviously the compressor uses some electric power which you will pay for via slightly diminished fuel economy.

    It is OK to run the cabin ventilation system with the heater turned on. The amount of incremental power used by the PTC electric heaters is not sufficient to be concerned about. Once the engine is warmed up, cabin heat is provided by excess engine heat so that heat is somewhat of a freebie.

    I hope this is responsive to your question.
     
    #3 Patrick Wong, Jan 9, 2013
  4. uhohmylo

    uhohmylo New Member

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    Thank you, that answered my question!
     
    #4 uhohmylo, Jan 10, 2013
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