Gas Myths Debunked by Deana…the answer
Experts Answer: “It’s So Insignificant, You Might as Well Be Comfortable.”
One of the most commonly-heard myths touted by consumers is that running the A/C drains your gas tank. Not true, according to Michael Calkins, the manager of approved auto repair at AAA; at least not on the highway.
According to Calkins, on the highway, both air conditioning and open windows affect fuel economy in similar ways: only about half a mile per gallon.
“In highway speeds, open windows do increase your drag,” Calkins said.
New York cab drivers aren’t completely wrong. In stop-and-go traffic, open windows don’t have nearly as much drag, so open windows may rob less fuel than the air conditioner.
“A/C uses slightly more gas, but the savings are not really significant,” Caulkins said. “But when you consider the fatigue factor, it’s better to use the air conditioning though it may cost you half a mile a gallon. If ultimate fuel efficiency is your only goal, then driving with your windows down will save you a tiny bit of fuel around town certainly, but not on the highway.”
