Cool down cheaper | Air conditioning trick that saves fuel

Does your car have this button? Many ignore it, and it can greatly reduce consumption.

Gasoline and diesel prices have skyrocketed and any little thing that can help a tank last longer is a lifesaver right now. Well, it seems there is an air conditioning trick that will reduce your fuel consumption somewhat.

Considering that most people will try to save money the next time they are at a gas station, we bring you a handy trick. Motorists have been told of a secret air conditioning button that can cut fuel consumption, especially on short journeys as petrol and diesel prices hit new highs. The button will not only save fuel, but will make the journey more comfortable for drivers and passengers.

Drivers who turn on the AC will use the power of the engine in diesel and gasoline cars as well as the battery in electric vehicles. The system usually works by bringing in outside air and then heating or cooling it.

Drivers have been told that this uses more fuel compared to the option that allows the car’s AC system to use the air inside the car. For internal combustion engines, this can lead to much higher fuel consumption.

There is a button specially designed for drivers to choose which option they want. If activated, the air recirculation button allows the air conditioner to use air from inside the car by pulling it through the vents while at the same time preventing outside air from entering the car.

A button is usually located around the air conditioning dial that allows the driver to adjust the interior temperature. It has a picture of a car with an arrow in it, and using the buttons can help with fuel consumption because it puts less strain on the car’s engine.

Bradley Jando of Kwik Fit said:

“The compressor needs energy to drive your vehicle’s air conditioning system and will therefore use a small amount of fuel each time the system is running. This can increase fuel consumption by as much as 10% and the effects are particularly noticeable on short journeys. When you first set off, the air conditioner has to work hard to bring the interior temperature down to a comfortable level.”

Despite the reduction in fuel consumption, the RAC added:

“Don’t use your air conditioning unless you really need to because it uses engine power and therefore increases fuel consumption. This goes for both heating and cooling, so try to dress appropriately for the weather, even in the car if fuel economy is a big concern.”