How much fuel does a car consume when idling with the air conditioning on for one hour?
2 Answers
Idling with the air conditioning on for one hour consumes approximately 2.2406 liters of fuel. To calculate the fuel consumption caused by the air conditioning, it is necessary to first understand the compressor's power and the fuel consumption rate per unit of time. Generally, a car compressor's power ranges from about 2.5 kW to 4 kW, combined with the engine's idle fuel consumption rate: assumed to be 400 grams per kilowatt-hour. Relevant information about car air conditioning is as follows: 1. Introduction: The car air conditioning device (air-conditioning-device), referred to as car air conditioning. 2. Function: It is used to adjust and control the temperature, humidity, air cleanliness, and air flow inside the car cabin to the optimal state, providing a comfortable riding environment for passengers and reducing travel fatigue; it creates good working conditions for the driver and plays an important role in ensuring safe driving as a ventilation device.
Having driven for decades, I often idle with the AC on, estimating an hourly fuel consumption of 0.8 to 1.5 liters, depending on the car's size. For instance, my sedan consumes about 0.6 liters per hour at idle, but with the AC compressor engaged, the fuel usage spikes to over 1 liter. One summer, while waiting for a friend in a parking lot for an hour, I noticed a significant drop in the fuel gauge—nearly 10 yuan worth. Engine displacement makes a big difference: smaller engines may use around 0.7 liters, while SUVs or pickups can hit 1.5 liters. AC efficiency also plays a role, as hotter weather increases the load and fuel consumption. To save fuel, money, and the environment, avoid prolonged idling with the AC on. Limit it to 10 minutes for cooling, then shut off and ventilate. From a safety perspective, idling exhaust buildup is unhealthy, especially in enclosed spaces—ventilation is crucial. I use apps to track fuel usage and optimize habits. Overall, while convenient, this habit isn’t cheap and requires moderation.
