Quote:
Originally Posted by klynch
Randy,
Thanks for the info; it makes sense to me. I am confused, however, by the number of posts I think I read earlier in the year about people stating they try to improve FE by limiting A/C use. Are they (like me) misled? If so, maybe there is a case to be made for running in AUTO mode. One reason I don't do it now because I don't like the A/C coming on when I'm running the heater or when I want vent air.
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Old saying here - There ain't no such thing as a free lunch.
Relative to the current discussion - The voltage / current being consumed by the AC Compressor's electric motor must be replenished via the Motor Generator system. This will cause an additional (albeit slight) load on the ICE..
Given the extremely high efficiency of the AC compressor and system in general, I don't think you'll notice much (if any) difference in fuel economy.
Another good reason to run the AC compressor periodically is because the lubricant for the compressor is mixed in with the Freon (or in our cars R-134). If left to sit for long periods of time, the oil will settle out and take longer to circulate once you turn the AC on - this will cause more wear in the system and less overall efficiency.