Using air conditioning (AC) in the car during summers is comfortable, but can be heavy on the pocket. Nowadays, most cars are equipped with AC, and this facility makes the journey pleasant in hot weather. But have you noticed that running AC reduces your car’s mileage and increases fuel consumption? Experts say that AC puts additional load on the engine, which can increase the cost of petrol or diesel by 4 to 10 percent. So, can fuel be saved even while enjoying AC? The answer is yes—it is possible with some easy ways. Let’s understand these tips in detail and know how you can keep your car economical.

AC and fuel math: How does the cost increase?

The energy required to run the AC comes from the car’s engine itself. When you turn on the AC, the engine has to work harder, which increases fuel consumption. Automotive expert Rakesh Mehta explains, “The AC system can draw 0.2 to 1 liter of extra fuel for every 100 km. Running the AC for a long time affects mileage by 5 to 7 percent.” This means that if your car normally gives a mileage of 15 kilometers per liter, then with AC it can be 14 or less.
Simply put, the AC does not work when the engine is off, and the engine needs fuel to run. The more the AC runs, the more pressure will be put on the engine and the mileage will decrease. But with some smart ways you can reduce this loss.
Easy tips to save fuel
It is possible to save fuel even while using AC. These tips will not only give relief to your pocket, but will also keep the car better for a long time:
Park in the shade: In summer, the temperature of a car parked in the sun can reach 50 degrees Celsius. In such a situation, the AC has to work harder from the beginning. “I now try to park the car under a tree or in a shady area. This helps the AC cool faster,” says Sanjay Verma, a car owner from Delhi. If shade is not available, open the windows as soon as you get into the car. Switch on the AC after the hot air is released—this will reduce the strain on the engine.

Slowly reduce the temperature: Instead of setting the AC to very cold, reduce the temperature gradually. Keep it at 25-26 degrees initially, then bring it down to 22-23 as needed. “This method prevents the engine from getting overloaded and reduces fuel consumption. Also, the cabin stays cool for a longer time,” says Priya Shetty, an automobile engineer from Mumbai.

Use recirculation mode correctly: Keep the recirculation mode off as soon as you start the car. This will let fresh air in from outside and let hot air out. When the car cools down, switch on recirculation mode—it reuses the cool air inside and reduces the pressure on the compressor. Rakesh Mehta suggests, “This increases the life of the AC and saves fuel.”

Regular check of AC and compressor: Servicing of AC and compressor is necessary in summer. If the system is low on refrigerant or the compressor is faulty, it takes more energy to cool. Ajay Das, a car service manager from Kolkata, says, “Get the AC checked before every season. This makes it work faster and you do not have to switch it on and off again and again.” This will also save fuel.

Small changes, big benefits

These tips not only save fuel but also maintain the health of the car. Shalini Gupta, an office employee from Pune, says, “Earlier I used to always run the AC at full speed. But now by parking in the shade and cooling slowly, my car’s mileage has increased by 2 kilometers per liter.”

Experts believe that proper use of AC not only reduces your costs but also benefits the environment. Less fuel consumption means less carbon emissions. Rakesh Mehta says, “These are small steps, but they add up to a big impact in the long run—for both your pocket and the planet.”

Enjoy AC without breaking the bank

Driving without AC in the summer is tough, but that doesn’t mean you have to pay a higher fuel bill every month. With these simple tips, you can enjoy the coolness and keep your car economical. Try these tips the next time you go for a drive. Can your car’s mileage increase? The answer is in your hands—all you need is a little common sense and caution.

This article is based on expert advice and practical experiences.