It’s the summer season, which for many people that means long hours on the road headed to the beach, countryside, the lake, amusement parks, and of course work. As you set out on your journey, know that the temperature outside has an effect on your car’s fuel economy as does how you maintain the temperature inside your vehicle.
Hot weather in the summer heats up your engine more efficiently and faster. The hot air causes less aerodynamic resistance than cold air, and summer grades of gasoline can have slightly more energy. Unfortunately, keeping yourself and your passengers cool in the summer heat has the opposite effect on your vehicle’s fuel economy.
The number one reason for reduced fuel economy in hot weather is running the air conditioning in your car. With hot temperatures this summer, the air conditioning can reduce your fuel economy up to 25%.
Follow these tips to improve fuel economy in hot weather:
- Replace/ tighten your gas cap; this Increases your fuel efficiency by up to 2% by making sure gas isn’t evaporating through loose or old gas caps.
- Park in the shade so your car doesn’t get as hot.
- Leave the windows open when you first start driving to clear hot air out of the cabin.
- Roll the windows down at lower speeds, use the AC at highway speeds.
- Don’t use the AC more than needed or set the temperature lower than needed.
- Don’t idle with the AC running before driving, turn the AC on after you begin to drive or after airing out the cabin briefly. Most AC systems will cool the vehicle faster while driving.
We know must drivers must requirement during the summer is air conditioning. Start by airing your car out at low speeds. Once the car is finally aired out, turning your air conditioning on at highway speeds will help you be fuel efficient! Having the windows open increase the car’s aerodynamic drag, and that makes the engine work harder, according to U.S. Department of Energy. Being comfortable, allows you to likely safer and focused on the road.
We hope these tips will help you save money and be more fuel efficient on the road this summer!
