In many vehicles, the AC compressor and the heater are interconnected. When one part malfunctions, it can affect the performance of the other. Let’s understand how the AC compressor and the heater work together and whether a faulty compressor can impact the heater.

How the AC Compressor and Heater are Connected

The AC compressor and the heater in a car use the same air ducting inside the cabin. Although they are on different systems of hoses, they share the common function of regulating the temperature inside the vehicle. When the AC is activated, the compressor pressurizes the refrigerant, which absorbs heat from the cabin and expels it to the outside. On the other hand, the heater uses hot coolant from the engine to produce warmth, which is then circulated throughout the vehicle’s cabin by the heating system.

Credit: en.wikipedia.org

Impact of a Faulty AC Compressor on the Heater

If the AC compressor malfunctions, it may not directly affect the operation of the heater. The heater will still work, regardless of the status of the AC compressor, as long as the engine is running. The engine coolant runs through a small radiator, and the fan circulates air through it to provide warmth. Therefore, even if the AC compressor is not working, the heater should continue to function adequately.

Running the AC and Heater Simultaneously

Most vehicle designs allow the AC and heater to run simultaneously. When the AC and heater are operated together, the AC compressor is energized, and the evaporator coil under the dashboard removes moisture from the air. This feature benefits the vehicle’s interior by maintaining a comfortable temperature and reducing humidity.

Credit: www.amazon.com

Myth About AC Compressor Affecting the Heater

There is a common misconception that a faulty AC compressor will cause the heater to stop working. This is not entirely accurate. While the AC and heater are connected in some aspects, the heater does not rely on the AC compressor to produce heat. As long as the engine is running, the heater should continue to provide warmth to the vehicle’s interior, independent of the AC compressor’s status.

Frequently Asked Questions On Does The Ac Compressor Affect The Heater : Impact On Heat Output

Will A Broken Ac Compressor Affect Heat?

A broken AC compressor will not affect the heat as the engine coolant provides the heat; the compressor is not involved in heating.

Does Ac Compressor Work With Heater?

Yes, the AC compressor does not directly affect the heater in a car. The heater in a car uses hot coolant from the engine to produce heat, which is then circulated through the vehicle’s cabin. The AC compressor is not involved in the heating process.

Therefore, even if the AC compressor is not working, the heater will still work as long as the engine is running.

Does My Ac Compressor Control My Heat?

No, the AC compressor does not control your heat. The AC system in a vehicle is designed to provide both cool air and warm air to the cabin. The compressor is responsible for cooling the air, while the heating system uses hot coolant from the engine to produce heat.

So, even if the AC compressor is not working, the heater will still work as long as the engine is running.

Will A Heater Work Without An Ac Compressor?

Yes, the heater will still work without the AC compressor as it uses hot coolant from the engine for heat circulation.

Conclusion

It’s essential to understand the relationship between the AC compressor and the heater in a vehicle. While both systems are interconnected to some extent, a faulty AC compressor should not significantly affect the operation of the heater. The heater will continue to work as long as the engine is running, providing warmth and comfort inside the vehicle.

For any concerns about the AC compressor or the heater in your car, it’s advisable to consult a qualified mechanic for a thorough inspection and necessary repairs.

References:

• https://www.quora.com/Will-heat-work-if-the-AC-com…
• https://fjcinc.com/is-it-ok-to-run-the-a-c-while-the-he…
• https://militosautorepair.com/how-the-a-c-system-affe…
• https://www.rycompressors.com/Blog
• https://www.dsmtuners.com/threads/does-the-ac-co…