Does Car AC Use Gas?

You’ve probably heard from people in the Barberton-area that you shouldn’t use your car AC while your windows are down or that you use a lot of gas when using the AC. So, does AC burn car gas on your Barberton drives? The answer is yes — the AC system in your car does consume fuel. Just like your other car’s features, the AC system is powered by the alternator, which in turn is powered by the engine. In this guide, the Serra Chevrolet Akron service center covers what you can do to save on gas and the truth about your AC using gas.

Does Car AC Use Gas: How it Works 

Whatever make or model you are driving around Massillon, the ventilation system is pretty much the same. All of the vehicles employ a high-pressure gas called refrigerant to power the AC. Here are the parts your vehicle uses to run the air conditioning:

• Compressor – Compresses the refrigerant into a fluid, allowing it to flow freely to the condenser. 
• Condenser – Lowers the temperature of the refrigerant and sends it to the expansion valve/orifice tube. 
• Expansion Valve/Orifice Tube – Reverts the refrigerant to its original gaseous state and delivers it to the receiver/drier (also known as the accumulator).
• Accumulator – Lowers the moisture content of the refrigerant and delivers it to the evaporator. 
• Evaporator – Extracts heat from the air that passes through its core, and transfers the heat to the refrigerant. As a result, cooled air begins to flow from the evaporator. 

Does Air Conditioning In the Car Use Gas: Make it Fuel-Efficient 

Sometimes, using your car’s AC is actually more fuel-efficient than rolling down the windows! The EPA recommends leaving your windows down when you hit highway speeds as it exacerbates the aerodynamic drag which forces your vehicle’s engine to work harder — even harder than it would if you’d rolled up the windows and cranked the AC to get relief from high temperatures in North Canton.

Does Car AC Burn Gas: Other Ways to Improve Fuel Economy

Aside from rolling up your windows while you cruise the highways, there are a few ways to improve your fuel economy as you navigate the Clinton roads:

• Brake gradually
• Use high-quality engine oil
• Use a sunshade when parked in direct sun
• Reduce speed and drive in a higher gear 
• Don’t pack too many heavy items 
• Ensure proper tire alignment and inflation
• Avoid idling for longer than 30 seconds 

Explore Fuel Efficient Vehicles at Serra Chevrolet Akron Today!

If you still have questions about vehicle maintenance or repair questions, the team at Serra Chevrolet Akron is here to help! Contact us to speak with an experienced technician about your vehicle care, or visit us in Akron to schedule service for brake pad replacement, tire rotation, and more.