Air conditioning becomes an essential tool in the car during the months of intense heat. in Spain. However, many drivers are unaware that improper use of the device can lead to high energy and fuel consumption, affecting both the pocket and the durability of the system itself.
Having adequate air conditioning not only improves comfort while driving, but also reduces the risks associated with driving in extreme temperature conditionsEnjoying a cool environment is possible even during a heat wave, if you follow some tips recommended by experts and organizations like the General Directorate of Traffic.
Ventilate your car before turning on the air conditioning
Almost all of us have felt that heat stroke when getting into a car parked in the sun. The first recommendation to save energy is to ventilate the passenger compartment well before pressing the air conditioning button.According to industry experts, leaving the windows open for a few minutes, and even using the opposite door as a fan, helps the accumulated hot air escape. This will help the air conditioning system cool down faster and reduce fuel consumption in both combustion and electric vehicles.
This simple gesture reduces the initial effort of the compressor, the time when the air conditioning consumes the most fuel.
Turn off the air before turning off the engine
A lesser-known but key tip for system maintenance is Deactivate the air conditioning manually a few seconds before turning off the car. This avoids voltage spikes and unnecessary efforts for the compressor, auxiliary belt, and condenser fan. This also extends system life and prevents costly breakdowns. It's also recommended to depress the clutch before shutting off the engine to further reduce the load on the mechanical components.
How much fuel is actually used?
The General Directorate of Traffic recommends maintaining the interior of the car between 21 and 22 °C to ensure comfort and safety while driving. However, using air conditioning can increase fuel consumption. 0,2 and 1 liter per 100 kilometers, depending on the intensity and outside temperature. This increase in consumption represents an increase in 5% to 10% in traditional vehicles, significantly reducing the range in electric and hybrid cars.
In electric cars, the operation of the air conditioning It is directly related to the battery, so continued use may reduce range on long journeys. It's recommended to use "eco" modes or gradually adjust the temperature to optimize system use and reduce additional consumption.
Extra tips to save energy in summer
In addition to properly ventilating and disconnecting the system, it is important to take into account Other habits that help optimize the use of air conditioning:
- Drive with the windows open only at the beginning of the journey, so as not to compromise aerodynamics and increase consumption at high speed.
- Use air recirculation mode inside, to achieve a stable temperature more quickly without forcing the system.
- Do not direct the cold air stream directly at the body., but towards the ceiling, allowing the air to be distributed more efficiently.
- Perform periodic maintenance of the system, such as cleaning filters and checking the refrigerant gas level.
Keeping the passenger compartment protected from the sun by using sunshades, curtains or parking the vehicle in the shade also helps maintain a lower temperature initially, preventing the system from overworkingTo learn about the advantages of more efficient consumption at home and in your car, you can visit the section on energy saving at home.
By following these simple tips, You can minimize energy consumption by using your car's air conditioning. without sacrificing comfort and safety, whether traveling in the city or on long road trips. Small steps can add up to significant savings in fuel, maintenance, and driving comfort.
