Yep, the best solution is to never use the AC. You could even remove it completely, I guess. I believe that there is some parasitic loss of HP even when it's not on, because it is always giving some resistence--friction--to the engine via the belts.

There's a thread somewhere on here started by a guy who did this because his AC broke. He did say he expected MPG to go up. I asked to keep a record, so we'll have to check out what he says.

I'm also doing a study on driving at highway speeds. So far, with AC on and windows up, I got something like 39.8 mpg (it's in another thread). Hopefully I can do the same route on an interstate with the windows down and no AC and get some accurate numbers next week.

 

i wish i could say that myself that ez. today it was 91 degrees where i live!!! i need my ****. lol.

 

Hahah, yeah here in Houston it's either slow car with a/c on or a free steam room ride. I think it's hotter than 91 here and even feels hotter with the humidity

 

96 today here in big ol' iowa.

 

103 here today in Minnesota. I am more of a fan of windows so that isnt a problem for me. Of course i used the air today but im willing to sacrifice a little bit of power for a refreshing ride. Plus the subaru's air kicks ***.