Shreveport Heat Wave: Is Your Car’s AC Guzzling All Your Gas?

As temperatures in Shreveport are expected to approach 100 degrees by the end of the week, everyone's patience might be tested. If your car has a remote start, you're likely already using it minutes before getting in on these hot summer days. But have you ever hesitated to crank up your car's AC, worried it might guzzle too much gas? If you've ever scoffed at someone claiming their AC is draining their gas tank, it turns out they might have a valid point after all.

Does Using AC Affect Gas Mileage?

Plymouth Rock Assurance, citing a Consumer Reports study, confirms that running your car's AC does indeed reduce gas mileage. This means more frequent trips to the pump. The good news? There are several effective strategies you can use to keep your car cool and save on fuel.

How Can You Save on Fuel?

If you can, open the windows a few minutes before you have to drive anywhere. We aren't saying sit in the car until it's cooled down, maybe wait until the temperatures outside are pleasant. The experts also suggested avoiding running your AC on full blast for long periods. They also suggest investing in a sun visor and parking in the shade, and avoiding parking your vehicle in direct sunlight if you can.

Driving a smaller vehicle won't just save you money at the pump; the article went on to share that a four-cylinder vehicle will cool much faster. "A smaller automobile with an average four-cylinder engine can be cooled more efficiently. Consider that when purchasing your next vehicle, especially if you have a long commute."