Does Car AC Use Gas?

In the past, you likely heard that using the air conditioner in your car reduces your gas mileage. So, is it true? Does car AC use gas when you commute from Omaha to Lincoln? The answer is yes – the AC system in your vehicle does use fuel. Like many of the other systems in your car, the air conditioner is powered by the alternator, which is powered by the engine itself. This chain of power distribution will inevitably use fuel. In our guide below, you’ll learn about your air conditioner’s fuel usage and how you can boost your gas mileage on the Fremont streets!

How Car AC Works

Regardless of the type of vehicle you drive, your air conditioner will work the same. All cars use a high-pressure gas called refrigerant to power their cooling system. The air conditioning system is made up of the following components:

• Compressor: Squeezes the refrigerant down into a fluid, allowing it to pass to the condenser.
• Condenser: Drops the temperature of the refrigerant and moves it to the expansion valve/orifice tube.
• Expansion Valve/Orifice Tube: Returns the refrigerant to its natural, gaseous state. Delivers it to the receiver/drier, also known as the accumulator.
• Accumulator: Reduces the moisture content of the refrigerant and sends it to the evaporator.
• Evaporator: Pulls the heat from the air that passes through its core. Then, it transfers the heat to the refrigerant. As a result, the cooled air flows from the evaporator!

Can Using Car AC Be Fuel-Efficient?

While you may be surprised to hear it, there are actually situations where it is more fuel-efficient to use your AC than it is to cool yourself down by rolling down the windows! According to the EPA, open windows at highway speeds create greater drag. This means that your engine has to work harder to travel at your required speed. The harder your engine works, the more fuel it burns.

Other Ways to Improve Fuel Economy

You might be curious if your AC will burn fuel equally under all conditions. Apart from keeping your windows rolled up on the highway, there are a number of ways to improve your mpg when you have the AC turned on:

• Brake gradually
• Use high-quality engine oil
• Don’t pack too many heavy items
• Ensure proper tire alignment and inflation
• Avoid idling for longer than 30 seconds
• Use a sunshade when parked in direct sun
• Reduce speed and drive in a higher gear

Explore Fuel Efficient Vehicles at Sid Dillon Chevrolet-blair Inc

Along with answering questions like, “Does car AC use gas?”, our expert Blair team can help you recognize the signs of a dying car battery and much more! If you’re hoping to take on rising fuel costs, you can explore our new vehicle inventory to find fuel-efficient options. Best of all, we offer EV models like the Bolt to help you leave fuel usage in your rearview mirror!