Does Car AC Use Gas?

Many Webster drivers have asked us at Big Star Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram Fiat Clear Lake, “Does car AC use gas?” It may not be obvious, but your car’s air conditioning system does indirectly utilize gas, just like many of the other electronic features in your vehicle. Air conditioning uses power from your alternator, which is powered by your engine. Fuel is what generates the entire process. Learn more about your vehicle’s air conditioning system here, and if your car needs AC service, contact us at Big Star Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram Fiat Clear Lake.

How Car AC Works

All vehicle air conditioning systems run on a high-pressure gas called refrigerant. Regardless of the make and model of your new car, truck, or SUV, these key components are included in your air conditioning system:

• Expansion valve or orifice tube: Returns the refrigerant to its original gaseous state and sends it to the receiver, accumulator, or drier.
• Condenser: Removes the heat from the refrigerant and directs it to the expansion valve or orifice tube.
• Receivexr, drier, or accumulator: Removes the moisture from your refrigerant and transfers it to the evaporator.
• Compressor: Compresses the refrigerant, making it into a fluid. This allows the refrigerant to flow through the line to the condenser.
• Evaporator: Pulls the heat from all the air passing through its core and sends it to the refrigerant, resulting in cold air flowing beyond the evaporator.

Can Using Car AC Be Fuel-Efficient?

According to the EPA, using your AC when driving at highway speed is more fuel-efficient than driving with the windows down. While it may feel good to roll down the windows while driving on Clear Lake or Houston streets, it also causes more drag. It makes your engine work harder, and that burns more gas to maintain the speed. So, if you want to enhance your fuel economy, use your AC instead of rolling down your windows.

Other Ways To Improve Fuel Economy

Along with keeping the windows up while driving on Pearland highways, these are some other things you can do to improve fuel economy: 

• Brake slowly
• Try not to idle for more than 30 seconds
• Don’t carry around unnecessary items in your car
• Drive in a higher gear
• Use sun reflectors if you’re parking in a sunny area
• Make sure your tires are properly inflated and aligned
• Avoid using cheap engine oil

Get Your AC Serviced at Big Star Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram Fiat Clear Lake Today

Now that you no longer need to ask, “Does car AC use gas?” if you live near Webster and think your air conditioning could use service, contact us at Big Star Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram Fiat Clear Lake. Our certified auto technicians will handle any job quickly and have you back on the road in no time at all. Browse our service specials, and then make an appointment online. We look forward to serving you!