Does Car AC Use Gas?

How Long Can You Drive on a Spare Tire?

Once summer arrives and the temperature in NY steadily increases, you’re going to want to use your car’s AC to keep the cabin cool and comfortable. But, does car AC use gas? In short: yes, the AC is powered by the alternator, which is powered by the engine. In turn, the AC needs gas to operate. If you’re looking for ways to stay cool in Manhasset, but also remain as fuel-efficient as possible, keep reading with the North Bay GMC service team, below!

How Does Car AC Work?

No matter what type of vehicle you drive in Flushing, the way the car’s AC functions is the same. All vehicles use a high-pressure gas called refrigerant to power the AC. The air conditioning system is made up of the following components:

• 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.

Can You Use the Car’s AC and be Fuel-Efficient?

It’s no secret that using your car’s AC system during Bayside summers will consume gas. However, there are ways that you can stay cool while using the AC, and using AC is actually more fuel-efficient than simply rolling down the windows. According to the EPA, having your windows down when driving at high speeds only forces your engine to work harder.

What Are Some Other Ways to Improve Your Fuel Economy?

Aside from rolling up your car’s windows while driving on Roslyn highways, here are some other ways that you can enhance your car’s efficiency when the AC is running:

• Brake gradually
• Use high-quality engine oil
• Don’t weigh your car down with excessively heavy items
• Make sure your tires are properly inflated and aligned
• Avoid idling for longer than 30 seconds
• Place a sunshade in the window when parked in the sun
• Reduce speed and drive in a higher gear

Shop for Fuel-Efficient Vehicles with North Bay GMC

If you have any additional questions about your vehicle’s AC, or if your car’s air conditioning system needs a tune-up or repair, the certified technicians at North Bay GMC are here to help! Schedule a service appointment and we’ll have your car’s AC like-new in no time. We also offer service coupons to keep car maintenance budget-friendly. Visit our service center location today!