What To Know
- In hot and humid areas, it may be more beneficial to keep the air conditioner running at a higher temperature to prevent the house from overheating and becoming uncomfortable upon returning home.
- If you’re only going to be away for a short period of time (less than a few hours), it’s generally not necessary to turn off the air conditioner.
- The decision of whether or not to turn off the air conditioner when not home is a complex one that depends on a variety of factors.
As energy costs continue to rise, homeowners are looking for ways to save money on their utility bills. One common question is whether or not to turn off the air conditioner when leaving the house. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the factors to consider, the potential benefits, and the potential drawbacks of turning off the air conditioner when not home.
Factors to Consider
Before making a decision, it’s important to consider the following factors:
- Local climate: In hot and humid areas, it may be more beneficial to keep the air conditioner running at a higher temperature to prevent the house from overheating and becoming uncomfortable upon returning home.
- Length of absence: If you’re only going to be away for a short period of time (less than a few hours), it’s generally not necessary to turn off the air conditioner.
- Energy efficiency of the air conditioner: Newer, more energy-efficient air conditioners may be more cost-effective to keep running at a reduced setting than to turn off and restart.
- Insulation of the house: A well-insulated house will retain cool air better, making it less necessary to turn off the air conditioner when not home.
Potential Benefits
- Energy savings: Turning off the air conditioner when not home can potentially save energy and reduce your utility bills.
- Reduced wear and tear: Cycling the air conditioner on and off can put stress on the unit, potentially shortening its lifespan.
Potential Drawbacks
- Uncomfortable return: If you turn off the air conditioner for an extended period of time, the house may become too warm and uncomfortable upon returning home.
- Increased humidity: Turning off the air conditioner can allow humidity to build up in the house, which can be uncomfortable and potentially lead to mold growth.
- Higher startup costs: Restarting the air conditioner after it has been turned off can require more energy than running it at a reduced setting.
Best Practices
Based on the factors and potential benefits and drawbacks, here are some best practices to consider:
- Set the thermostat to a higher temperature (78-80°F) when not home. This will allow the house to remain cool without using as much energy.
- Use a programmable thermostat. This allows you to set the air conditioner to turn off automatically when you leave and turn back on before you return.
- Close blinds and curtains during the day. This will help block out sunlight and keep the house cooler.
- Use fans to circulate air. This can help keep the house comfortable without using the air conditioner.
- Consider a smart thermostat. These devices can learn your habits and adjust the temperature accordingly, potentially saving you even more energy.
When to Turn Off the Air Conditioner
While it’s generally not recommended to turn off the air conditioner in hot and humid climates, there are certain situations where it may be beneficial:
- If you’re going to be away for an extended period of time (more than a few days).
- If you have a very energy-efficient air conditioner.
- If your house is well-insulated.
When to Keep the Air Conditioner On
If any of the following apply, it’s generally recommended to keep the air conditioner running:
- You live in a hot and humid climate.
- You’re only going to be away for a short period of time (less than a few hours).
- Your air conditioner is not very energy-efficient.
- Your house is not well-insulated.
The Bottom Line: Striking the Right Balance
The decision of whether or not to turn off the air conditioner when not home is a complex one that depends on a variety of factors. By considering the factors discussed in this guide, you can make an informed decision that balances energy savings with comfort and the longevity of your air conditioning unit.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
1. How long can I leave my air conditioner off when I’m not home?
It depends on the factors discussed in the guide. In general, it’s not recommended to turn it off for more than a few hours in hot and humid climates.
2. Is it better to turn off my air conditioner or set it to a higher temperature when I’m not home?
Setting it to a higher temperature is generally more energy-efficient.
3. Can turning off my air conditioner damage it?
Cycling it on and off can put stress on the unit, but it’s unlikely to cause damage if done infrequently.
