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United Tire and Service News

How Air Conditioning Affects Your Fuel Economy

6/10/2021 10:58:00 PM | (2486) View Count | Return
Your car's air conditioner is one of the most important accessories, especially during summer. Without it, driving in hot temperatures would be almost unbearable. With air conditioning warmer temperatures on the horizon, we thought that it would be a good moment to provide you with helpful information about the effects of air conditioning and fuel economy. 
Did you know that fuel consumption can be increased by as much as 20% while operating your car's air conditioning system? Keep reading to find out why that occurs and what you can do about it. 
 

Impact of Air Conditioning on Fuel Economy

There is a greater risk to fuel economy while using your air conditioner, mainly because of the heavier load on the engine. But factors such as the outside temperature, whether your car is a hybrid, and the age of your car, all play a significant role. It's scientifically proven that warm or hot air causes less of an aerodynamic drag than cold air. Humidity also is a factor.
 
With an engine that can reach more than 200 degrees Fahrenheit and summer months that can reach temperatures of the high 90s or more, the impact on fuel economy can be extremely noticeable. If you've ever filled up your tank on a hot summer day and then ran the air conditioning and wondered why the fuel gauge quickly showed a lot less, now you understand why. It's not because of the grade of fuel used. That is a myth.  
 

Mechanical Issues and Timely Repairs

The best defense for preventing a drastic impact on fuel economy is to ensure that your air conditioning system is working properly, to begin with. Overworked or deficient parts can have a devastating effect on fuel economy. For example, a refrigerant leak can cause you to use the air conditioning system on a higher setting than necessary. An A/C compressor that is not fully functional can become overworked and sometimes useless.
 
An overworked air conditioning system can cause a fuse to blow to prevent damage. However, both of these examples increase the likelihood of putting a heavier load on the engine before that occurs. That means using more fuel than necessary. Because of this, air conditioning repair should always include an inspection of all related A/C parts and for leaks, regardless of the root cause. The most common solution for warm air coming from the air conditioning system is to recharge the refrigerant.
 
 

fuel economyTips for Improving Fuel Economy During Hot Weather

There is plenty that you can do to reduce the impact on your fuel economy this summer. But be sure that you reach out to United Tire & Service if you need air conditioning repairs. We're here to help! And with 13 independent locations in the greater Philadelphia area, you can find a United location near you whenever issues arise.
Our tips for improving fuel economy:
 
  • Open your car windows while driving in the city at lower speeds, rather than using the air conditioner.
  • Set the air conditioner at one level and leave it there, preferably in a low-to-moderate setting.
  • Park your car in the shade whenever possible and use sunshades.
  • Never leave your car idling with the air conditioner on. 
  • Open the car windows to allow the cabin hot air to disperse before driving.
  • Read your owner's manual for specific manufacturer instructions about using the air conditioning.
  • Turn the air conditioner on from time to time during the winter months to prolong a/c parts longevity. 
Need to make a service appointment today? Call your local United Tire or schedule online.
 

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Air Conditioning Maintenance

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