At what temperature is the car air conditioning most fuel-efficient?
2 Answers
Setting the car air conditioning to 26°C is the most fuel-efficient, as detailed below: Optimal timing for turning on the air conditioning: The first action upon entering the car should be opening the windows and activating the air conditioning's external circulation to expel hot air. Once the interior temperature drops, switch to internal circulation. Turn off the air conditioning during prolonged stops: When the interior temperature is comfortable, briefly turn off the air conditioning and open the windows for ventilation. Avoid turning off the engine before the air conditioning: A few minutes before reaching your destination, turn off the air conditioning and switch to natural ventilation. This allows the temperature in the air conditioning ducts to equalize with the outside, maintaining relative dryness in the system. Alternate between internal and external circulation: The internal circulation system can be used but not for extended periods. When first turning on the air conditioning, start with external circulation. Once the temperature decreases, switch to internal circulation, and periodically alternate between the two. Why high or low air conditioning settings consume more fuel: This is related to the car's compressor. Due to the compressor's presence, the car air conditioning consumes fuel rather than electricity. The compressor is a crucial component for the air conditioning's operation and a major energy consumer in the system. Electric vehicles typically use electric compressors, whereas traditional fuel-powered cars connect the compressor to the engine's crankshaft via a belt, not electricity. This is the primary reason why using air conditioning increases fuel consumption.
After driving a taxi for over a decade, I've found that setting the AC to 26°C is the most fuel-efficient. Especially during summer long-distance trips, setting it too low makes the compressor work excessively, increasing fuel consumption by over 10%. Keeping the fan speed at level 2-3 is sufficient and actually feels cooler than the lowest temperature setting. Another trick is to open the doors to ventilate the car before entering – it cools down faster. Avoid always using the lowest temperature; it wastes fuel and can easily cause colds. Turning off the AC five minutes before reaching your destination and using natural air can also save some fuel. Remember this temperature – it's comfortable for both your wallet and your engine.
