A catalytic converter is one of the most important components on a modern day car. It plays a very important role yet few people know what it does. When a catalytic converter is at the proper temperature it can convert the harmful byproducts of combustion into safer, less harmful gases.
Okay, so why is this relevant to anyone?
Unfortunately, a catalytic converter has an Achilles heel, it needs sufficient heat to function. When at a proper temperature, a catalytic converter is capable of reducing pollutants by upwards of 99% according to a study conducted at Weber State University. The problem occurs when the required temperature is not met.
According to Science Daily, 90% of vehicle emissions occur in the first minute of driving after a “cold start” (starting a vehicle after it has cooled for several hours). Many people, myself included, don’t plan out every trip we take in our cars. This can lead to more cold starts and results in excess, unnecessary emission.
I have been trying to use my vehicle more efficiently to help our air quality, I hope making people aware of this will encourage others to do the same.
Kyler Ingles, South Jordan
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