Is it dangerous to close all car windows while having the A/C on?

Question

Many years ago I heard people died from staying in the car having the A/C on. So now when I go to my car for a nap during lunch hour, I am wondering if I should open the window a little bit.

Answer 1

People don't die from having the A/C on.

You heard wrong.

Answer 2

No you wont die......on today's cars even if you have the A/C on max and recirculate, sitting in a parking lot or in traffic or napping you will still have a small amount of outside air coming through the fresh air vent...

Answer 3

From my knowledge..no.

Answer 4

I always thought thats what you are supposed to do.

Answer 5

Keeping all the windows closed while using the A/C is recommended so that you don't let out the cool air or let in the hot.

I spent many years driving mini buses and had lots of long waits on VERY hot days when I would catch up on a little sleep. While it did waste a fair bit of fuel, that was better than not being able to get some sleep and crashing the bus.

So long as you don't have exhaust gasses leaking into your vehicle, you will be perfectly fine. Remember to lock the doors if you are having a nap. (I'm living proof that it is safe!!!)

Answer 6

Many years ago,  the deaths were caused by carbon monoxide poisoning.   Depending on your location,  this could possibly happen with the windows down as well,   if your engine is running.  

I don't suggest sitting in the car in a closed space,  such as parking garage.   Along with the fumes,  you also have the expense of gasoline.

Answer 7

no.  in fact many do it to save on gas and keep the cold air in the car on hot days

Answer 8

its not dangerous to have the a/c on with the windows closed it will just waste gas

Answer 9

this is a new one on me.

could be talking about being in a garage.

I'm gonna say no it's not dangerous based on myself and 15 million other drivers who use there AC with the windows up including sleeping in the car.

at times i have to drive very long distances and i have slept in my truck over night (8+hours)

Answer 10

If your A/C works really well, you could freeze to death.

Answer 11

No. Unless you have a leaky exhaust. With the engine idling, plug up the tail pipe and see if it builds pressure. If it doesn't, but just hisses up front, you could get carbon monoxide poisoning.