Several people have inquired about the APU trucking term. An APU, or auxiliary power unit, is a device that helps power a truck. It can provide electrical power to the truck’s cab, keep the truck’s engine warm while it is parked, and run the air conditioning system. Without an APU, a truck driver would have to idle the truck’s engine for hours to stay comfortable and powered up. Thanks to APUs, drivers can save fuel and money while on the road.
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How Does an APU Work on a Truck?
Auxiliary power units (APUs) are small, self-contained devices that provide auxiliary power for truck cabs. APUs typically generate electricity from a truck’s batteries, and they can also be used to heat or cool the cab. While APUs are not required by law, they can save truckers money on fuel and help them comply with idling laws and regulations.
In addition, APUs can improve driver comfort by providing a reliable heat source, air conditioning, and even entertainment. Many truckers choose to install APUs because they offer significant advantages over traditional idling methods.
How Much Is an APU for a Truck?
Auxiliary power units (APUs) are devices that provide electricity and climate control for the cab of a truck while the engine is turned off. Truckers have long used APUs to save on fuel costs, and the Environmental Protection Agency has estimated that they can improve fuel economy by up to 10 percent. Given the high price of diesel fuel, it’s no surprise that APUs have become increasingly popular in recent years. So how much does an APU for a truck cost? The answer depends on several factors, including the size of the unit and the features it offers.
Generally speaking, APUs can cost anywhere from $7,000 to $12,000. That may seem like a lot of money, but it’s important to remember that APUs can quickly pay for themselves through fuel savings alone. In fact, Mike Hasinec, vice president of maintenance support for Penske Truck Leasing, has said that a typical driver can easily recoup the cost of an APU within a year or two. When you consider the long-term benefits of an APU, it’s easy to see why they’re such a valuable investment for any trucker.
Can You Run APU While Driving?
If you’re driving a long haul and you need to take a break, you can definitely run your APU while rolling. Your fridge will stay powered off the truck inverter, so you won’t have to worry about your food going bad. The APU’s own heat and A/C system will keep you comfortable, and the generator will provide all the power you need. Plus, the alternator will ensure your truck batteries don’t die while running the unit. So go ahead and take a break – your APU has got you covered!
How Long Will an APU Last?
All-electric APUs have come a long way in recent years and are now a viable option for many truckers. But how long do they really last? The answer, of course, depends on several factors, including the size and capacity of the unit. However, most all-electric APUs will provide 10-12 hours of air conditioning, and usually longer for heating. This is thanks to advances in battery technology, which have allowed for increasingly larger units. So if you’re looking for an APU that will keep you comfortable all day long, an all-electric unit is definitely worth considering.
How Much Fuel Does an APU Use per Hour?
An APU unit can greatly save you on the cost of fuel. On average, an APU unit uses 1/5 to 1/7 gallon of diesel per hour, running at 750 rpm. With a price of $2.80 per gallon, that would mean that you would spend anywhere from $0.56 to $0.98 per hour on fuel, with the APU running.
This means that, in a year, you would spend $1440 to $2520 on fuel for your truck, with the APU running. This saves $5200 to $4200 per year compared to not having an APU unit installed in your truck. In addition, the APU unit will also save you wear and tear on your truck’s engine, as it will not have to be idling for hours on end. As a result, the APU unit can save you significant money in both the short and long run.
Is an APU Worth It Trucking?
Any trucking company worth its salt knows that maintenance is a necessary evil when it comes to keeping its vehicles on the road. After all, every truck comprises a complex network of components, and each must be regularly inspected and serviced to keep the truck running smoothly. However, many trucking companies don’t realize that investing in a Green APU can save money on maintenance costs in the long run.
That’s because a Green APU helps to take some of the strain off of the truck’s engine, transmission, and other key components, extending their lifespan and reducing the need for frequent repairs. As a result, a Green APU can help any trucking company save money on maintenance costs and keep its trucks on the road longer.
Conclusion
APUs are a vital piece of equipment for any trucker, and there are many types to choose from. However, with so many options on the market, it can be difficult to know which one is right for your needs. You can narrow down the field and find the perfect APU for your truck by considering factors like cost, fuel efficiency, and maintenance requirements. So don’t wait – find the perfect APU for your truck today!
