Have you ever wondered, “Does car AC use gas?” It may not be apparent, but your car’s air conditioning system does indirectly use gas, just like many of the other electronic features in your Mazda. Air conditioning draws power from the alternator, which in turn is powered by the engine. Fuel is what powers the process. Learn more about your car’s air conditioning system here, and if you need service on your AC, contact Tulley Mazda in Nashua.
So, how exactly does car AC use gas? All vehicle air conditioning systems operate on a high-pressure gas that is called refrigerant. Regardless of the make and model of your vehicle, these key components are part of your air conditioning system:
Based on suggestions from the EPA, using your AC when driving at highway speed is more fuel-efficient than leaving the windows down while you drive. While it can be refreshing to roll down the windows while cruising around Hudson or Merrimack, it also generates more drag. It causes your engine to work harder and has to burn more gas to maintain higher speeds. So, if you want to maximize fuel economy in your new Mazda, use your AC while on the highway instead of rolling the windows down.
In addition to keeping the windows up while driving on the highway, there are many other ways to improve fuel economy, such as:
If you live around Lowell and think your air conditioning could use service, contact us today! Our expert service technicians will handle any job promptly and have you back on the road in no time. Check out our service specials, and then make an appointment online or over the phone.