Does Car AC Use Gas?

A common question we receive at Suburban Chevrolet is, “Does car AC use gas?” The answer is yes, the air conditioning system requires gas to function. This is true if you are driving a vehicle with an internal combustion engine. The alternator draws power from the engine, and in turn, it powers the AC. Just because the AC requires gas to function does not necessarily mean that using the system is inefficient. Sometimes using the AC can actually be the more efficient option. Learn more from our experts in car maintenance in Eden Prairie.

How Does Car AC Work?

Before we answer the question, “Does car AC use gas?”, you may be wondering how your car’s AC system works as you drive around Bloomington and Minnetonka. AC runs on refrigerant, which is a high-pressure gas. The following components are found in all car AC systems.

• Compressor — compresses the refrigerant into a fluid so that it flows into 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 before sending it to the receiver/drier or accumulator
• Receiver/drier or accumulator —removes moisture from the refrigerant and transfers it to the evaporator
• Evaporator — removes heat from the air passing through its core before sending it to the refrigerant, which results in cold air flowing beyond the evaporator

Is Using AC Fuel-Efficient?

While it may seem as though using your AC system would compromise fuel economy, that is not always the case. For example, if you are driving on the highways around Hopkins at high speeds, using the AC is actually more efficient than opening the windows. How is this possible? Open windows actually create more drag. More drag forces the engine to work harder and consume additional fuel.

How to Improve Fuel Economy

How else can you boost the fuel economy of your vehicle? Keep these tips in mind to get the most out of every drop of gasoline:

• Gradually bring your vehicle to a stop
• Keep your tires inflated to the recommended PSI and keep wheels aligned
• Don’t idle the vehicle for more than 30 seconds
• Don’t overload your car if possible
• Use the type of oil that is recommended by the automaker
• Reduce your speed and drive in a higher gear

Reach Out to Us for More Service Tips

Is it time for car maintenance in Eden Prairie? We can help! Reach out to us today or set up an appointment with our knowledgeable technicians. We’ll get your car back to peak condition in no time.