Does running only the air conditioner in a car consume more fuel?
2 Answers
Running only the air conditioner in a car does consume more fuel. The specific explanation is as follows: This is because, in general fuel-powered vehicles, the air conditioning compressor is driven by the engine. The power of the air conditioning compressor is relatively large, imposing a significant load on the engine, which consequently leads to higher fuel consumption. Relevant information is introduced as follows: The automobile air conditioning system, abbreviated as car air conditioning, is used to adjust and control the temperature, humidity, air cleanliness, and airflow inside the car cabin to an optimal state. It provides a comfortable riding environment for passengers, reducing travel fatigue, and creates favorable working conditions for the driver, playing a crucial role in ensuring safe driving. It generally includes cooling devices, heating devices, and ventilation devices. This integrated system makes full use of the limited space inside the car, featuring a simple structure and easy operation, making it a popular modern car air conditioning system internationally.
As someone who has been driving for decades, I do believe that using the air conditioning alone does make the car consume more fuel. The AC compressor is driven by the engine belt, and once it's turned on, the engine has to output additional power to drive it, naturally increasing fuel consumption. Normally, without AC, city driving fuel consumption is around 8L/100km, but with AC on, it can rise to over 9L. Especially when idling with the AC on, the engine burns fuel for nothing, which is very uneconomical. On long highway trips in summer, I adjust the AC usage based on the situation. Sometimes, opening the windows feels cooler but increases wind resistance and fuel consumption even more, so a balanced use of AC can actually be more efficient. I keep a detailed log every time I refuel, and it's clear that fuel expenses are noticeably higher during the AC season.
