Like many other consumers, you might also believe that turning your AC on and off is economically attractive. However, this might not be true. After learning this, you might be compelled to think: is it bad to keep turning AC on and off?
Yes, it is bad to keep turning AC on and off frequently because it runs down the system sooner and increases your electricity costs. While you believe it’s an energy-efficient option, it’s actually not. Because in this way, the system takes longer to bring the temperature down to your comfort and utilizes more power.
Now, you must be thinking if it is better for AC to run constantly. Well, there isn’t a straightforward answer because of the several counter arguments.
Let us provide you with a bird’s eye view of both scenarios to have a broader perspective.
Turning AC On And Off Vs. Leaving It On
You may often turn your AC on and off thinking that it will need a break. However, switching it off frequently doesn’t do any good. While you can save on your electricity bills, this practice isn’t ideal during the hottest summer days when you need to run it time and again.
You may think that it is not necessary to leave your air conditioning unit on when not at home. But the moment you step into the house and feel like boiling inside, you realize you were wrong. On top of that, having pets and plants at home makes the environment terrible for them.
In summary,
You want a comfortable temperature on your way back home without the worries of breaking the bank. So, let’s cut to the chase and learn about the solution to enjoy the best of both worlds.
Invest In A Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat helps manage your AC usage efficiently. It allows you to set up specific temperatures for different times of the day. Hence, your home feels cool when you need it and conserves energy when you don’t. All of this is possible without the need to keep your AC running all day and night.
According to ASHRAE (an acronym for American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-conditioning Engineers), 24°C (76°F) is an ideal thermostat temperature for daytime during summer.
Many thermostats with smart features enable you to do it remotely when away from home, whether for work or vacation. They can even learn your preferences and adjust accordingly to optimize your energy savings up to 10%.
Efficient Ways To Reduce Workload On Your AC
- Use Ceiling Fans: Ceiling fans help circulate air and create a cooling effect. Hence, you can set your AC at a higher temperature, without compromising comfort.
- Proper Insulation: Insulate your home properly to prevent cool air from escaping and warm air from entering, reducing the workload on your AC.
- Natural Ventilation: Use natural ventilation by opening windows and doors during cooler parts of the day to let in fresh air and reduce indoor temperatures.
- Window Treatments: Install blinds, curtains, or shades to block out sunlight and reduce heat gain during the day.
- Reduce Heat Sources: Minimize the use of heat-generating appliances, such as ovens and stoves, during the hottest parts of the day to keep indoor temperatures lower.
Should You Give Your AC A Break?
You should consider giving your AC a break to maintain its efficiency and avoid problems like overheating and frequent repairs. Meanwhile, keep the blinds closed and don’t use appliances that produce heat during the daytime to keep the inside temperature normal.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the impact of frequently turning your AC on and off is important to maintain a balance between comfort and efficient use. Knowing it can cause more harm than good, you are likely to lean towards the more efficient strategies that we discussed in this blog.
