Does Car AC Use Gas?

Yes, the air conditioning system in your vehicle requires gasoline to operate if you own a car, truck, or SUV with an internal combustion engine. The reason why is how the AC works in your vehicle when you’re driving along Arlington streets in your Altima or Armada.

There’s a myth that using your car’s air conditioning system makes it less fuel-efficient. While that is true for low speeds, at higher speeds running your AC actually improves the gas mileage when driving on Memphis highways.

Our guide answers this question in more depth: “Does car AC use gas?” So, keep reading if you want more details.

Does AC Burn Car Gas?

Yes, your car’s air conditioning burns more gas in order to work properly, whether you’ve got a Titan or Murano. The AC stays cool because of refrigerant, no matter which type of vehicle you own. All air conditioning systems need these components:

• Compressor — Compresses the refrigerant into a fluid, allowing flow down a line to the condenser.
• Condenser — Eliminates the heat from the refrigerant and moves it to the expansion valve or orifice tube.
• Expansion valve or orifice tube — Changes the refrigerant back to its gaseous state, then transfers the gas to the receiver/drier or accumulator.
• Receiver/drier or accumulator — Removes moisture from the refrigerant and sends it to the evaporator.
• Evaporator — Takes the heat out of the air passing through its core, then sends it into the refrigerant, which results in cold air flowing beyond the evaporator.

So, how does air conditioning in the car use gas? The serpentine belt, which only runs when the engine is on, turns the condenser unit. Without the condenser, the air won’t get cold. If your serpentine belt ever breaks, your AC won’t run cold. If your engine’s off, it won’t run cold, either.

We’ve answered, “Does air conditioning in the car use gas?” This doesn’t mean your car has poor fuel efficiency.

Does AC Burn Car Gas: Fuel Economy

When you’re driving at highway speeds, usually above 50 mph, using your car’s AC is actually more fuel-efficient than opening the windows. Opening the windows at those speeds causes more aerodynamic drag, and that can make your engine work harder to travel at the same speed.

So, if you’re cruising down the highway on a hot summer day, you can crank the AC and feel good about it, because you’re reducing aerodynamic drag. However, if you’re in Bartlett on city streets, consider rolling the windows down if you want better fuel economy.

Does car AC use gas? Yes, but not enough to drastically reduce your fuel efficiency.

Does AC Burn Car Gas: Other Tips for Improving Fuel Efficiency

This is our final tip when answering the question, “Does air conditioning in the car use gas?” You can still improve your car’s fuel efficiency with these driving suggestions:

• Brake gradually
• Keep the tires properly inflated and aligned
• Avoid idling for over 30 seconds
• Don’t overload your car
• Use sun reflectors if you’re parked in the sun
• Buy the recommended oil for your car
• Reduce your speed and drive in a higher gear

Bring Your Vehicle in for Service to Wolfchase Nissan

Ready to bring your vehicle in for service in Bartlett? Schedule service with our team at your convenience. We’re happy to help in any way we can!