RICHMOND, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – As August kicks off with rising temperatures across our area, many of us are reaching for the car’s air conditioning to stay cool. While blasting the AC feels great, it can also take a toll on your fuel economy, with experts warning that running your air conditioner in extreme heat can lower fuel economy by up to 25%, especially on short trips.

Morgan Dean, spokesperson for AAA Mid-Atlantic, says these strategies can help reduce the load on your vehicle’s A/C, keeping both you and your wallet more comfortable during the hot months ahead.

  1. Shade and Vent: Park in the shade and use a sunshade to block UV rays, keeping your car cooler and reducing the energy needed to cool it down.
  2. Roll Down the Windows First: Before using the air conditioning, let hot air escape by rolling down the windows. Dean says, “When you first get into a hot vehicle, roll down the windows, if it’s safe to do so. Then, while driving, turn the air on the fresh-air mode to help the hot air escape.”
  3. Use A/C at Highway Speeds: Close the windows and use the A/C once you reach highway speeds. Open windows at high speeds increase drag, which can decrease fuel efficiency.
  4. Avoid Recirculation with Passengers in the Back: The recirculation setting cools air more efficiently but can leave rear passengers uncomfortable. Dean advises against using it if there are people in the back seats.
  5. Maintain Your A/C System: Regularly check and maintain your vehicle’s A/C system, including the cabin air filter and coolant levels, to ensure optimal performance.

Dean also warns, “If a car’s air conditioning is not maintaining the interior temperature as well as it did in the past, it may mean the refrigerant level is low or there is another problem.”