AAA reminds drivers of air-conditioning usage amid high temps and high gas prices

PITTSBURGH — Temperatures are expected to be at or above 90 degrees in the next few days.

The first thing drivers will want to do is crank up their car’s air-conditioning, but experts with AAA say not so fast.

“This week will be close to record high temperatures, and while that’s great for hanging out by the pool, what does that mean for our vehicles?” AAA spokesperson Tiffany Stanley said.

She reminds drivers that running their car’s air-conditioning on high can get pricey, with a gallon of regular gas costing more than $5, on average, in Pennsylvania.

“It can reduce your fuel economy by 25%, which equates to you having to fuel up more often than you should,” she said.

Instead, AAA recommends that drivers keep their air-conditioning at a moderate level or roll down the windows.

Trying to keep the car cool even when it’s empty is also key.

That means parking in a garage, shaded area or even using a windshield cover.

“A little mindfulness before you hop out of the car really goes a long way,” said Stanley.

It’s also important to keep your car’s gas tank over a quarter full.

If it gets too low, you could be facing other issues more costly than buying gas.

“That is dangerous and can actually cause more damage if you are running your tank on E,” said Stanley.

Never leave your kids or pets in the car unattended. With temperatures over 90 degrees, that can be deadly in just minutes.

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