How much petrol does your car consume in an hour when the AC is on? You will be shocked to know this

Car Fuel Consumption:  If the AC keeps running while driving a car, a lot of petrol gets consumed in an hour, every car owner should be aware of this. 

Car Fuel Consumption:  Using AC increases the car's petrol/diesel consumption, as the air conditioner is connected to the engine and draws its energy from the engine itself. But how much additional consumption will be depends on many factors, such as your car model, engine capacity, AC settings, and driving conditions. However, in general, running AC consumes about 10-20% more fuel.

How much fuel can be consumed by running AC in one hour?

Typically, running AC can consume 0.2 to 0.5 liters of extra fuel per hour. Let's understand this with some examples:

City driving: During slow speeds and frequent braking, the AC puts more strain on the engine, leading to more fuel consumption. This can lead to an additional use of about 0.4-0.5 litres of petrol/diesel per hour.

Highway driving: On highways, where the engine operates at higher speeds, the effect of AC is slightly less, and fuel consumption can increase by about 0.2-0.3 litres per hour.

Dependence on car:

Small cars (like Maruti Suzuki or Tata small cars): These consume about 0.2-0.3 litres more fuel per hour when the AC is on.

Large car/SUV: Larger cars with bigger engines may consume additional fuel of 0.4-0.5 litres per hour or more.

Why is consumption increasing?

Running the AC makes the engine work harder, because the engine has to provide extra energy to run the AC compressor. This increases the load on the engine and increases fuel consumption.

Saving measures:

Use eco mode: Many modern cars have an eco mode, which reduces the energy consumption of AC.

Keep the windows closed: To make the most of AC, keep the car windows closed so that the cool air doesn't escape and the AC has to work less.

If you are driving long distances, AC may consume a little more fuel, but the benefits of comfort and temperature control may balance it out.