Free Air Con

[topcat]

This is my first post, I have learnt a lot from this forum, so now it is time to give something back, even if it is bleeding obvious to some of you!
My scangauge shows me that it is possible to get free air con during in-gear deceleration, as an alternative to (_horror_) braking. I call it air con braking.
The ECU adds in no fuel during in-gear deceleration, and a swift press of the AC button can convert some of your Kinetic energy in free AC. But beware if the revs get too low it will add fuel to avoid stalling.
This works on my 2005 Toyota Celica. Useful to know, because it is actually hot today here in England...

[euromodder]

Welcome to ecomodder.

Originally Posted by topcat

My scangauge shows me that it is possible to get free air con during in-gear deceleration, as an alternative to (_horror_) braking. I call it air con braking.

As the wheels are driving the engine and its accessories.
You won't notice it, but it'll brake a tiny bit harder.

Engine braking (or DFCO as it's called on here, for Deceleration Fuel Cut-Off) is still braking.
Slightly less of a horror, but it still reduces your fuel economy.

Start coasting in neutral as much as you can , in preference to engine braking.

Find the transition points on your regular trips : the speed you need to carry at a certain spot to make it to the next point (a cross-road, traffic light, ...) When you get there, repeat the process to the next point.

[gascort]

Originally Posted by euromodder

Welcome to ecomodder.
(+2)
As the wheels are driving the engine and its accessories.
You won't notice it, but it'll brake a tiny bit harder.

I use AC braking in my car on huge hills - even when I have the windows open. I have a manual transmission, and have the car off and engine braking trying to keep from flying downhill; AC on max does add noticeable resistance. And it's a nice cool breeze.
Welcome.