Be it summer or rainy season, turning on the AC while driving has become a common thing. The journey seems incomplete without cool air. Know about it? 
AC Car:-In hot summers or during rainy days, switching on the AC while driving is a normal thing. After all, who wants to drive in heat or humidity? But did you know that turning on your car’s AC can actually reduce your fuel mileage?
Yes, you read that right.
According to a recent survey, 50% of car drivers are unaware that using the AC can make their car consume more fuel. Let’s understand how this happens.
🚗 How AC Affects Your Car’s Engine and Fuel Consumption
The car’s AC compressor is powered by the engine. So, when you switch on the AC, your engine has to work harder – not just to move the car, but also to keep the air inside cool.
This extra load on the engine leads to more fuel consumption.
Studies and real-world driving tests show that using AC can reduce mileage by 5% to 20%, depending on how and where you drive.
🛣️ City or Highway – Where Does AC Affect More?
Whether you’re driving in the city or on a national highway, using the AC means more fuel usage. But its impact is usually higher at faster speeds, like on highways.
But here’s something surprising:
If you drive at high speeds with your windows down instead of using the AC, your car may still consume even more fuel.
Why?
Because open windows create air drag (resistance) at high speeds. This forces your engine to work harder to maintain speed – again, using more fuel.
🧠 What Should You Do to Save Fuel?
So now you understand – turning on the AC puts extra pressure on the engine, which increases fuel consumption and reduces your mileage.
But how much mileage drops depends on several things:
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🚙 Your car’s model
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🧰 The engine’s capacity
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⏱️ How long and how often you use the AC
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🛣️ Whether you’re driving in traffic or cruising on a highway
🧊 Expert Advice: Use AC Wisely
Experts say that if you want to save fuel, try to limit your use of AC, especially for short trips or when the weather is pleasant.
You can roll down your windows for fresh air – but remember, not at high speeds on highways.
So next time you get into your car, think smart:
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Use AC when truly needed
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Keep your car ventilated in cooler hours
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Avoid open windows on highways
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And most importantly – balance comfort and economy
A cool ride is great, but not at the cost of burning extra fuel.
Using AC wisely can help you save money, improve mileage, and even reduce your carbon footprint.
So, the next time you hit the road, remember – comfort and mileage can go hand-in-hand, if you’re a smart driver.