How much fuel is consumed when idling with the AC on for an hour?
1 Answers
According to relevant tests, the fuel consumption of a car idling with the AC on is related to the engine displacement and even the engine tuning. Generally, idling with the AC on for about an hour consumes approximately 1-2 liters of fuel, though this may vary depending on the vehicle model. Reasons for increased fuel consumption when using the AC: When the AC is turned on in summer, the compressor needs to work to provide cooling. The AC compressor cannot operate on its own—it relies on the engine to drive it, which consumes a portion of the engine's power. This is why using the AC for cooling affects fuel consumption. Precautions for idling with the AC on: Hazards of idling with the AC on: The AC blower is powered by the battery. When the car is idling, the battery's charging efficiency is relatively low. The operation of the blower may lead to battery drain, and prolonged use can shorten the battery's lifespan. Additionally, idling already consumes fuel, and running the AC requires the engine to power the compressor, which inevitably increases fuel consumption.