Expert Tips to Use Car AC: As temperatures rise across India, relying on car air conditioners (AC) becomes vital. However, while it’s essential to stay cool inside your vehicle, doing so leads to increased fuel consumption.
Operating the AC during hot summer months takes a toll on your car’s mileage, putting additional pressure on both your engine and your finances. Fortunately, there are intelligent strategies to keep your cabin cool while maintaining fuel efficiency.
Let’s delve into the reasons behind the rise in fuel usage with the AC on and explore how to manage it effectively.
Expert Tips to Use Car AC: Why AC Increases Fuel Consumption?
The primary component of a car’s air conditioning system is the compressor, which draws power from the engine via a belt. When the AC is activated, the engine must exert more effort to support both vehicle operation and cooling, resulting in increased petrol consumption.
The rise in fuel consumption can vary based on outside temperature, driving speed, and the type of vehicle. It can range from a slight increase to as high as 20%.
For example, if your car typically achieves a mileage of 17–18 km/l, that figure could drop to around 11–12 km/l during peak summer when the AC is in use.
Expert Tips to Use Car AC: What’s the Ideal AC Temperature Setting?
Reports suggest that the optimal temperature setting for car AC in summer is between 20°C to 22°C. This range strikes a balance between comfort, energy efficiency, and the long-term functionality of the AC system.
Setting the temperature too low causes the engine to work extra hard, leading to quicker fuel depletion. Conversely, a moderate temperature reduces the compressor’s load, enhances fuel economy, and prolongs the lifespan of your AC system.
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Expert Tips to Use Car AC: Smart Tips to Improve Mileage
While Using AC To help lessen fuel consumption without sacrificing comfort, consider these effective strategies:
- Park in the shade: Prevent direct sunlight exposure to keep the cabin cool, which means the AC won’t have to work as hard when you start driving.
- Vent out hot air: If you’ve parked for a while, roll down all the windows for a moment or two to release the hot air before switching on the AC.
- Use recirculation mode: This mode helps maintain cabin temperature effectively by reusing already cooled air, thereby minimizing the load on the compressor.
- Avoid idling with AC on: Keeping your engine and AC running while parked wastes fuel. Turn off the engine if you’re waiting for an extended period.
- Drive with windows down (when possible): On cooler days or early mornings, opt to turn off the AC and enjoy fresh air instead.
Expert Tips to Use Car AC: Conclusion
While using AC is essential during the scorching summer months, being conscious of your usage habits can greatly save fuel and lower maintenance costs. By adopting a few smart practices and adjusting your driving behavior, you can stay cool without significantly impacting your budget.
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