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Air Conditioning Technicalities

Discussion in 'Prius v Main Forum' started by Disgruntled_Walrus, Mar 10, 2013.

  1. Disgruntled_Walrus

    Disgruntled_Walrus New Member

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    Hello,
    I currently don't have a Prius but I am looking to buy a Prius v. One feature I liked was the air-conditioning using the battery. But what about the heater? Do you need the petrol engine on to have the heater on?

    Thanks,
    Disgruntled_Walrus
     
    #1 Disgruntled_Walrus, Mar 10, 2013
  2. Paradox

    Paradox Prius Enthusiast / Moderator
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    Yes, on any Prius not just the v, the ICE or gas engine provides heat. Once properly warmed up, it can cycle on and off but the heat is not electrically made.
     
    #2 Paradox, Mar 10, 2013
  3. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

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    'nuff said.:)
     
    #3 bisco, Mar 10, 2013
  4. rjparker

    rjparker Tu Humilde Sirviente

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    However there are at least three factors: 1) The gas engine has to come to temperature anyway so that it is ready to run efficiently 2) The water pump is electric so your heater can be circulating even when the engine if off and 3) in Eco mode the car will cycle the heat or air to optimize mpg while keeping the cabin conditioned

    Bottom line, don't worry about it.
     
    #4 rjparker, Mar 10, 2013
  5. JimboPalmer

    JimboPalmer Tsar of all the Rushers

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    During defrost, there are ceramic PTC electric heaters as well, they are small (under 400 watts in Gen 2) and only trying to keep the glass clear, not heat the entire car.
     
    #5 JimboPalmer, Mar 10, 2013
  6. Disgruntled_Walrus

    Disgruntled_Walrus New Member

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    Thanks, everyone! The info was useful,
    Disgruntled_ Walrus
     
    #6 Disgruntled_Walrus, Mar 11, 2013
  7. Mike500

    Mike500 Senior Member

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    It's due to the EPA regulations hat the ICE needs to heat up the polution control system quickly to meet reduced emission standards.
     
    #7 Mike500, Mar 11, 2013
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