Does Car AC Use Gas?

It’s actually one of the more unique questions the Cactus Jack's Auto sales staff has received over the years: “Does car AC use gas?” To answer this: Yes. The vehicle air conditioning system requires gas to operate. The alternator, which draws its power from your vehicle engine, powers the AC. No matter what, you will need fuel for your engine to operate and is the primary engine source for your car.

At Cactus Jack's Auto, explaining the inner workings of multiple vehicles is something many of our sales staff have done over the years. For those who want to learn how car AC works, we’ve provided a guide on how this operates. Read on to learn more!

How Does Car AC Work?

Since most air conditioning systems are the same for gas-powered vehicles, explaining how car AC works is straightforward. ACs run on refrigerant, a high-pressure gas. At the same time, all car AC systems use the following components to operate:

• Compressor: Compresses your refrigerant into a fluid, allowing flow down a line to the condenser.
• Condenser: Eliminates heat from the refrigerant and it moves towards the expansion valve or orifice tube.
• Expansion Valve or Orifice Tube: Changes the refrigerant back to a gaseous state, then transfers the gas to the receiver/driver or accumulator.
• Receiver/Drier or Accumulator: Removes moisture from the refrigerant and sends it to the evaporator.
• Evaporator: Takes the heat out of the air passing through its core, then sending it into the refrigerant, resulting in the cold air flowing beyond the evaporator.

Can Using Car AC Be Fuel-Efficient?

In going through the topic of “does car AC use gas,” some Surprise drivers have asked about fuel efficiency. By design, using your car’s AC is far more efficient than opening your windows. The reason is because open car windows will create more drag, causing your vehicle engine to work harder and use more fuel.

So for those driving around the roadways of Mesa and Phoenix or speeding down the highway on a hot summer day, crank up that AC. It’s more fuel efficient and you’re reducing your car’s aerodynamic drag.

Other Tips for Improving Fuel Efficiency

Beyond using your AC on the highways outside of Glendale, there are several other ways to improve your car’s fuel economy. This can include:

• Brake gradually
• Keep the tires properly inflated and aligned
• Avoid idling for over 30 seconds
• Don’t overload your car
• Use sun reflectors if you’re parked in the sun
• Buy the recommended oil for your car
• Reduce your speed and drive in a higher gear

Get More Car Service Tips From Cactus Jack's Auto!

Beyond answering “Does car AC use gas?.” Cactus Jack's Auto can answer a lot of auto questions you might have. Whether it’s cleaning leather car seats, used car maintenance, or having credit score questions, we have answers and posts to boot. Keep that car cool and crisp in the hot summer around Phoenix with Cactus Jack's Auto See you shortly!