Does Car AC Use Gas?

Yes, the air conditioning system requires gas to function, provided you’re driving a gas-powered vehicle. The alternator, which takes electricity from the engine, powers the air conditioner. Obviously, fuel is required for the engine to run, and it is your vehicle’s primary source of energy. However, just because the AC requires gas to work does not imply that employing it is wasteful. In fact, in some cases, utilizing it is preferable to not using it. So, does a car AC use gas? Continue reading to learn more about how automobile air conditioning works. 

How Does Car AC Work? 

Essentially, the air conditioning system works the same for all Prescott and Zumbrota cars, regardless of OEM. The AC runs on refrigerant, which is a high-pressure gas. All AC systems use the following components to operate: 

• 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. 

Can Using Car AC Be Fuel-Efficient? 

When traveling at highway speeds, utilizing your car’s air conditioning is more efficient than opening the windows. Why? Because open windows increase drag, the engine works harder and consumes more gasoline. So, if you’re driving down the interstate on a hot summer day, you can turn up the air conditioning and feel good about it because you’re minimizing aerodynamic drag. 

Other Tips for Improving Fuel Efficiency

In addition to utilizing the air conditioning on the highway, there are additional methods you may give your car’s fuel efficiency a tiny boost, such as: 

• 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 

Get More Service Tips from Red Wing Chevrolet! 

Do you have any other questions concerning your Cannon Falls car? Our service tips and techniques page contains valuable information on issues like oil change frequency, tire rotation, and more! You may also search our service specials for the most recent discounts on basic auto repairs and maintenance inRed Wing!