Tips for optimizing how you use your car’s air conditioning system

Frequent heat waves are common in summer. If you’re tempted to run your car’s air conditioning system at full blast when driving to work or home after being in the sun all day, you should know that this can strain the engine. It can even increase your fuel consumption by up to 20 per cent! How can you save money and stay cool at the same time? Here are a few tips:

• Park your car in the shade. A warmer car will take longer to cool down when you start it up. Can’t find a spot in the shade? Get a sunshade to reduce the heat in the cabin.

• Open the windows for the first few minutes of your drive to let out the hot air.

• Use the car’s air recirculation function. This circulates the cooler air in the cabin instead of using hot outside air, which requires more energy.

• Set the air conditioner to the coldest temperature and adjust the fan speed. Choosing a higher temperature will require the motor to heat some of the air it processes, consuming more energy. Switch off the air conditioning a few minutes before arriving at your destination to give the engine a break.

These simple tips can help you save on gas while beating the summer heat. Regularly maintaining your air conditioning system by a professional will keep it running smoothly and prevent energy loss. Make an appointment at your nearest M 360 Mechanic for peace of mind on the road.