Why You Might Want To Reconsider Blasting Your Car’s Air Conditioner In Hot Weather
August 17, 2022
source: Car From Japan/Cannon Auto Repair
On a hot summer day, there are few things more unpleasant than climbing into a hot, muggy car. If you’re like me, you’re probably tempted to blast your vehicle’s air conditioner the second you put the key in the ignition. However, there are a few key reasons why you may want to hold off on doing so – and they can save you some decent money in the long run.
Fuel Efficiency Debate
As explained by Family Handyman, there has been a longstanding debate as to whether driving with your windows down (and thus increasing drag) or running your car’s air conditioner burns more fuel. The Society of Automotive Engineers and General Motors teamed up to conduct a study on which of the two is the better method where fuel efficiency is concerned.
The study found that even after comparing vehicles driving at multiple different speeds, driving with the windows down is more fuel-efficient than running a vehicle’s air conditioner. Plus, there’s nothing quite like driving down an open road with the radio on and the wind in your hair!
That being said, there will always be some days and some circumstances when fuel efficiency is the last thing you’re concerned about, and you just want to be cool. If you have an infant or pet in the car, their comfort is also going to be your top priority. But during those days when you can tolerate a windows down drive home, you can at least feel good knowing you’re saving a buck or two on fuel!