Is horsepower reduced when driving your car with the AC on?

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jp95zm6 | 3 years, 3 months ago

Horsepower is not reduced, but you 'spend' some of it running the compressor. 5 to 7 horsepower would not be uncommon. Lowering the blower will reduce the load on the compressor, since less air moving through the system results in less heat transferred to the a/c system. Raising the temperature setting typically will not reduce the a/c load, though. It just reheats the air after the a/c chills it. Running recirculation mode or 'Max' is the most effective way to reduce the load from the system, and thus maximize fuel economy with a/c on, especially for longer trips when the cabin has a chance to cool off.

source(s):
Thermal Systems design experience.

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pvera | 3 years, 3 months ago Report

Another thing we did not mention is the size of the engine. A 300 HP V-8 engine with a 7HP penalty due to AC won't feel it at all. The same 7HP drain on a 120HP 4-cylinder car will make it feel sluggish.

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pvera | 3 years, 3 months ago

If it runs off a belt that feeds from the engine power, yes, it is considered parasitic, so it lowers the available power that can be used to move the car.

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cee-jay | 3 years, 3 months ago

My suggestion, is really just use the AC if you need it. You do get a better agility without it on.

source(s):
my daddy's a mechanic

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pvera | 3 years, 3 months ago Report

I agree, if you are going to be putting a heavier than normal load on the engine you should switch to just the fan. Also, if you are going to be driving at a steady speed, say an interstate, then you can probably use just the fan and the car won't get too hot.

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Owls | 6 months, 2 weeks ago

Horsepower to the rear wheels is reduced when you run the A/C.

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