Car AC tips: 10 things to do to improve cooling and reduce fuel consumption

Ensuring that your car’s AC operates efficiently is crucial for maintaining a comfortable and safe driving experience. Here are 10 practical yet simple tips to improve our car’s AC cooling performance and maximize cooling efficiency.

Ventilate the cabin before turning on the AC

While it is important to keep the cool air trapped inside the cabin for better cooling efficiency, ventilation is equally important to improve the cooling of the AC. Before switching on the air conditioner, open the car’s windows and run the fan for a few minutes. This helps expel the trapped hot air inside the cabin, reducing the overall temperature. Once the initial heat is released, turn on the AC for faster and more efficient cooling.

Try to park in shaded areas

This might not be always possible but try to park your car away from direct sunlight to prevent cabin temperature from reaching uncomfortably high. Not only, does this make it uncomfortable for you, but also for your AC to bring down the temperature in the cabin. A cooler cabin at the start reduces the AC’s workload for your AC and improves efficiency.

Activate recirculation mode

Once the AC is running, switch to recirculation mode. This ensures that the AC does not draw in hot outside air, instead continuously cooling the air inside the car. This leads to faster cooling and better temperature control.

Disable auto start/stop function

Modern cars often come equipped with an auto start/stop feature to save fuel, but this also turns off the AC compressor when the engine stops. This disrupts cooling and forces the AC to work harder when restarted. Disabling this function can maintain consistent cooling, especially in high temperatures.

Use automatic climate control

Many modern cars feature automatic climate control, which regulates temperature efficiently. Instead of manually adjusting the AC, set it to an optimal temperature. This feature automatically turns off the compressor when the set temperature is reached, reducing fuel consumption while maintaining cabin comfort.

Get your car AC serviced
The AC condenser helps dissipate heat from the refrigerant, but dust and debris can accumulate, reducing its efficiency. Cleaning the condenser regularly ensures better heat exchange, improving cooling performance. It is recommended to get the AC system inspected annually before summer.

Schedule regular AC maintenance

Over time, dirt, moisture, and refrigerant leaks can impact AC performance. A professional AC service can detect issues early and ensure all components are functioning optimally. Regular maintenance also prevents unpleasant odours caused by bacteria buildup in the system.

Minimise cool air loss

To maintain effective cooling, ensure all doors and windows are fully closed when the AC is in use. Any air leakage forces the system to work harder, leading to reduced efficiency and higher fuel consumption.

Clean or replace AC filters

Blocked air filters can restrict airflow, causing the AC to work inefficiently. Cleaning or replacing the filters every few months helps maintain smooth operation and better cooling performance.

Set AC to an optimal temperature

Running the AC at its lowest temperature setting increases energy consumption. The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) recommends setting the AC to 24 degrees Celsius for optimal cooling and energy efficiency. A simpler thing applies to your car’s AC as well. Operating ACs at an optimal temperature – around 24 degrees, helps the cabin attain the set temperature easily which shuts down the compressor and reduces fuel consumption as well.