How much does fuel consumption increase when using AC in summer?

[LeAna]

Using air conditioning in summer increases fuel consumption by about 2 units. This is because the engine operates under load after the AC compressor is activated. Here are some relevant points about using AC in summer: 1. Reason for increased fuel consumption: The car's air conditioning cooling system requires the engine to drive the compressor, which converts refrigerant from liquid to gaseous state to absorb heat during operation, consuming engine power! This consequently consumes fuel. 2. Amount of fuel consumed: The fuel consumption directly depends on the power consumed by the AC compressor. If the outside temperature is very high and the set temperature is very low, the AC compressor requires more power, resulting in higher fuel consumption.

[VonReid]

As a commuting office worker who drives frequently, using the air conditioning in summer does increase fuel consumption, typically by 10% to 20% on average. It depends on the vehicle condition and outside temperature—hot weather puts more load on the engine, and the compressor consumes extra fuel. For example, in city traffic jams, AC usage can spike fuel consumption by 15%, while on highways it might be slightly less. Personally, I drive a compact car, and turning on the AC as soon as I get in during summer makes the fuel gauge drop noticeably faster, especially with frequent stop-and-go driving. I recommend using recirculation mode or setting a slightly higher temperature to save some fuel. Additionally, maintaining proper tire pressure and changing engine oil on schedule can help mitigate the rise in fuel consumption. Overall, using the AC wisely in summer, planning trips efficiently, and avoiding prolonged idling can ease the burden.

[Margot]

I believe that using the air conditioning has a significant impact on fuel consumption, typically increasing it by around 15%. As someone who cares about environmental protection, I often consider that this is not just a matter of fuel costs but also increases carbon emissions, which is unfriendly to the environment. On hot days, driving with the air conditioning on continuously can raise fuel consumption by 20%, and this effect is even more pronounced in older car models. Personally, I make it a habit to open the windows for ventilation before turning on the air conditioning, or to use the ECO mode to adjust the airflow, avoiding full-power cooling. Reducing unnecessary short trips with the air conditioning on can lower the average fuel consumption. Maintaining the car properly is also crucial, such as cleaning the air filter and checking the air conditioning system, which can make the car more efficient. In short, using the air conditioning rationally not only saves money but also reduces the burden on the planet.

[GiselleAnn]

Using air conditioning in summer increases fuel consumption by approximately 10% to 30%, based on my years of driving experience. When temperatures are high and driving speeds are low, the compressor's workload significantly increases, burning more fuel. For example, in city driving, turning on the AC often raises fuel consumption by 20%, while on highways it might only be 10%. I believe well-maintained vehicles are less affected, whereas older cars with poor maintenance can see a greater increase in fuel consumption. Avoiding sudden acceleration and maintaining a steady speed while using the AC can mitigate its impact on fuel. Regular vehicle maintenance is the long-term solution for fuel efficiency.