How Much Does Using Air Conditioning Increase Fuel Consumption in a Car?
2 Answers
Generally, when a car's air conditioning is turned on, it affects the engine's power by 20% to 30%. Therefore, driving with the air conditioning on consumes 20% to 30% more fuel compared to driving without it over the same distance. Temperature setting should not be too low: The temperature setting of the car's air conditioning should not be too low. The lower the set temperature, the higher the air conditioning usage, the colder the interior, and the greater the temperature difference between the inside and outside of the car. This leads to increased loss of cooling capacity, all of which is compensated by consuming more fuel. Reduce cooling loss: Minimize the frequency of opening and closing the car doors to reduce cooling loss, and try to avoid opening the sunroof.
I remember when I first started driving, I noticed how quickly the fuel costs shot up with the AC on. Over time, I realized fuel consumption increases by about 15% to 20%, especially noticeable in summer traffic jams because the engine has to work harder to power the compressor. The impact is greater with frequent stops and starts in the city, while on the highway, it's less significant. Anyway, I've gotten into the habit of opening the windows for a few minutes to let fresh air in before turning on the AC, avoiding blasting cold air at full power right away. Additionally, older and less efficient car models consume even more fuel, so I recommend regular maintenance, like cleaning the condenser, to make the AC more fuel-efficient. Using the AC not only costs more but also puts extra strain on the engine. In the long run, maintaining your car well can save a lot of hassle. After driving for over a decade, I've kept these little details in mind, and they've been a big help.
