Tesla has always been a step ahead of the game, with its cars already being some of the highest quality on the market. They’re comfortable, safe, and reliable, thanks to their unique technology, like the Autopilot and an amazing air conditioning unit that can run even when the engine is idle.
But how much power does the A/C take, and how does it work? Let’s explore Tesla’s A/C system and see what we can find.
Tesla has a unique, high-tech air conditioning system that can run even while the engine is idle. It’s simply made using a few parts to provide power and control how it works.
Here’s an overview of what happens when you turn a Tesla A/C unit on:
The Tesla electric air conditioning compressor consumes 1-2kW while the system is in use. Generally, the unit’s power consumption increases with the difference between the air temperature outside the car and the air inside the cabin.
For example, assuming the ambient temperature is 110°F (43°C), and you want the cabin temperature to be 70°F (21°C), then the air conditioning compressor will require about 1.5- 2kW of power to cool down the cabin.
We wrote a related article and researched the Tesla Model 3 Have HEPA Filter. We examined all the possibilities and what the filter can do in certain situations. Check it out!
Whereas, if you want the cabin temperature to be 84°F (29°C) with the same outside temperature, it will require about 0.5 kW of power to cool down the cabin.
Here’s a breakdown of the typical power consumption of the Tesla A/C system at different desired cabin temperatures, based on research by the Idaho National Library. In this case, the researchers conducted the experiment when the outside temperature was 110°F (43°C).
| Ambient Temperature | Desired Cabin Temperature | Temperature Difference | Power Consumption |
| 110°F (43°C) | 70°F (21°C) | 40°F (22°C) | 1.5 – 2kW |
| 110°F (43°C) | 77°F (25°C) | 33°F (18°C) | 1 kW |
| 110°F (43°C) | 84°F (29°C) | 26°F (14°C) | 0.5 kW |
As you can see, the energy consumption reduces with the difference.
The Tesla air conditioning system can last up to 100 hours of continuous use. Generally, the higher the battery charge, the longer the A/C will last. However, if the outside temperature is too high or too low, the unit may consume more power and quickly drain the battery, shutting it down sooner.
In general, the Tesla A/C system holds up well against other vehicles on the road. Tesla equipped its Model S and X vehicles with a heating, ventilation, and A/C system that meets the gold standard in energy efficiency. That’s because the system uses positive temperature coefficient (PTC) heaters.
According to ScienceDirect, A PTC heater has a positive temperature coefficient, meaning the hotter it gets, the better its electrical resistance becomes. The heater consumes less power at lower temperatures and offers more efficiency than standard heaters. It only draws as much energy as it needs from the 12-volt battery to heat up or cool down your cabin to your desired temperature.
Using air conditioning will reduce Tesla range when outside temperatures are above 95°F (35 °C) or below 20°F (-6.7 °C). Notably, extreme heat can lower the range by 17%, and frigid temperatures reduce the range by 41%.
Why does that happen?
The reduction in range happens because the air conditioning unit needs to work harder to keep the cabin cool or warm. This reduces the efficiency of the car, which means you’ll need more energy to go the same distance as you would with the A/C turned off.
Pro Tip: Here are a few ways to increase your Tesla’s driving range:
A Tesla’s A/C unit works well, even in extreme temperatures. Once activated, the unit automatically starts up and runs when the outside temperature drops below a specified threshold. It will automatically turn off when the inside temperature gets above the desired setting, heating the car.
Similarly, when the external temperature increases, you can reset the AC to cool you off by setting it to a lower temperature. You’ll need to turn the A/C back on using the center touchscreen system or the mobile app if you want that effect.
To reset your Tesla A/C, follow these steps:
Note: You can choose different temperatures for front and back seats or synchronize them. Here’s a video that provides some helpful climate control tips:
A Tesla doesn’t automatically turn on the A/C unless the Auto feature is on. The Auto mode allows the car’s sensors to detect the external temperature and adjust by heating or cooling the cabin.
To turn the Auto mode on, follow these steps:
1. Touch the temperature icon on the touchscreen.
2. From the popup, tap the power button.
Note: The Auto mode doesn’t work well in extreme temperatures, so set your desired temperature manually if you feel the automatic feature doesn’t produce satisfactory results.
To turn on your A/C manually, follow these steps:
1. Touch the temperature icon on the center console.
2. Select your preferred temperature.
Tesla can run A/C while charging. However, turning on the A/C when charging increases the load on the electrical system. As a result, the charging process slows down.
Therefore, if you’re in a hurry, it’s best to save the A/C for when your car is already fully charged.
Tip: If you need a quick, efficient way to charge your EV, I recommend trying out this Lectron J1772 Adapter from Amazon.com. It charges fast and is durable and portable, making it an excellent addition to your home charging system.
Arguably, the Model S, one of the best EVs on the market, was designed from the ground up as a no-compromise electric car that just happens to be better than traditional ICE engines in almost every measurable category, including speed, luxury, and safety.
Although the model S is a bit pricey, the car is amazing and will be a big step in the right direction towards killing off carbon-based transportation. So, why not buy one today?
