Does Car AC Use Gas?

Fuel efficiency is on the minds of nearly every Traverse City driver, due to high gas prices. Does turning off the car’s AC save on gas? Does car AC use gas? Does air conditioning in the car use gas more than rolling down the windows? How does AC burn car gas in the first place? Our service center wants to help you get the most fuel efficiency out of your vehicle, so let’s take a closer look at how this works.

Does Air Conditioning in the Car Use Gas?

Is your car’s air conditioning an electrical component? How does air conditioning in the car use gas? While the AC is not directly powered by gasoline, the engine is, and the engine powers the AC. The more the engine has to do, the harder it has to work, and the more gasoline it uses. But does the AC burn car gas enough to impact the gas mileage you get on your Manistee commute? Here is a detailed explanation:

• Compressor — compresses the refrigerant into a fluid, so the refrigerant flows through a line to the condenser.
• Condenser — removes the heat from the refrigerant and pushes it along to the expansion valve or orifice tube.
• Expansion valve or orifice tube — returns the refrigerant to its original gaseous state and moves it to the receiver/drier or accumulator.
• Receiver/drier or accumulator — removes moisture from the refrigerant and transfers it to the evaporator.
• Evaporator — pulls heat from the air passing through its core and transfers it into the refrigerant, resulting in cold air flowing beyond the evaporator.

Does Car AC Use Gas So Much That You Keep It Turned Off?

Does AC burn car gas enough that turning it off will make a difference in fuel economy? It is true that turning off the AC and rolling down the windows while driving through Cadillac in stop-and-go traffic might save you a little money on gas. But does car AC use gas so much that you should just keep it turned off even while driving down the highway? 

Actually, turning off the AC and rolling down the windows can sometimes use more gas than using the air conditioning. Why? Air rushing into your car causes drag. At highway speeds, there is enough drag to make the engine work even harder than it would with the AC turned on. 

Let the Service Experts at Serra Cadillac Of Traverse City Help

We’re here to help if your car’s fuel economy suddenly worsens for an unknown reason. We can quickly take care of the problem, so schedule an appointment with us. In the meantime, if you found this guide to be helpful, check out our post on the difference between regular and premium gas, as well as our other automotive tips. We’re conveniently located near Grayling, so drop by or contact us today.