Does running a car's airconditioning really consume more gas?

Question

Does running a car's airconditioning really consume more gas?

Answer 1

App 1 mpg...but you lose more with windows open.

Answer 2

yes you lose like less than a gallon per tank very little.... really the only way to save wil be roll the window up and leave it off and you know no one is going to do that with the window down you burn almost the same

Answer 3

I love how these people are quoting you exact figures when you have not told them what car you drive and every engine is different. It depends alot on the car for the exact amount but yes it does, but depending on the car its often more efficient than having the windows rolled down.

Answer 4

Yes.  The air conditioner pump is run from a belt from the engine (like a fan belt), so it puts more load on the engine and therefore uses more fuel to overcome the extra resistance.  There is an electronically controlled clutch that disengages it when it's not being used.

Answer 5

Of course,a lot.

Answer 6

Yes it does....around 10-15% more gas.

The compressor of the airconditioner in a car is driven by the engine via a belt mechanism. When the airconditioner is switched off, an electrical clutch disengages the compressor from the engine....hence there is less load on the engine, hence lower fuel consumption. This extra mileage is usually realized only if the car is driven around town or at slow to moderate speeds because with the airconditioner off and the windows rolled down there is resistance caused by air entering the car's cabin, the resistance increasing with increase in speed.

If the window is rolled up at all times, irrespective of what speed you are travelling at, keeping the airconditioner off does reduce gas consumption.

Answer 7

Yes it does, but if your on the highway it is better to roll up your windows and use your air conditioner in your car because the draft will slow you down more, and waste more gas to try to push the wind resistance.