Summer is approaching fast, and many of us will be turning on our air conditioning units to combat the heat. A common question that arises around this time of year is whether you should turn off your AC when you leave your home. Some believe that leaving the AC on will keep their home cool, while others think it’s a waste of energy and cash.
The fact of the matter is that it depends! AC usage will always depend on the environment and on your own comfort. Because of this, it’s better to look at the pros and cons of leaving your AC on while you’re gone and to figure out where you and your AC fit into the spectrum.
Pros of leaving your AC on when you’re not at home
You’ll return to a cool home. One of the main benefits of leaving your AC on when you leave your home is that you will return to a cool and comfortable environment, with no waiting period required! This is especially important if you have pets, young children, or even plants that may be more sensitive to high temperatures.
Prevents humidity buildup. Leaving your AC on can also help prevent humidity buildup in your home. One of the main functions of an air conditioner is that it wicks humidity from the air in order to condition it. High levels of humidity can cause mold and mildew to grow, which can be harmful to your health. If you have issues with humidity, this could be a good reason to leave your AC on.
Energy efficiency. Contrary to popular belief, turning your AC off and then back on again actually uses more energy than simply leaving it on. When you turn your AC off, the temperature in your home rises, and the AC has to work harder to cool it back down when you turn it on again. This uses more energy than leaving it on at a consistent temperature.
Cons of leaving your AC on when you’re not at home
Uses energy. If you are concerned about energy use, the importance of the usage of energy when you’re not physically at home may outweigh the benefits that we laid out earlier. If you’re looking to purely reduce costs, it may be the better route to forgo leaving your AC on.
May shorten the lifespan of your AC unit. Running your AC unit all day puts more strain on the system, which can lead to more breakdowns and repairs. This can shorten the lifespan of your AC unit and result in costly repairs.
Potential safety hazards. Leaving your AC on all day when you’re not at home can also pose a safety risk. If there’s a serious malfunction with the AC unit you could be putting your home and belongings at risk.
So, what’s the verdict? Should you turn off your AC when you leave your home?
The answer to this question ultimately depends on your personal preferences and circumstances. If you have pets or young children who need to stay cool, it may be best to leave your AC on when you leave your home. If you’re concerned about energy efficiency and your carbon footprint, it may be best to turn your AC off when you’re not at home.
Here are some tips to help you decide what’s best for you
Consider investing in a programmable thermostat. A programmable thermostat allows you to set the temperature in your home to a certain level, so your AC doesn’t have to run all day when you’re not at home. This can help you save energy and money on your energy bills.
Use ceiling fans. Ceiling fans can help circulate the cool air in your home, making it feel cooler and more comfortable. This can help reduce your reliance on your AC unit and save energy.
Get regular maintenance. Regular maintenance on your AC unit can help prolong its lifespan and prevent breakdowns. Make sure to get your AC unit serviced at least once a year to ensure it’s running efficiently.
The bottom line
In the end, the decision of whether to turn off your AC when you leave your home is a matter of personal preference and circumstances. If you prefer to come home to a cool and comfortable environment, leaving your AC on might be the best option. On the other hand, if you're concerned about energy efficiency and the environment, turning it off might be the way to go. Just remember, whatever you choose, keep your cool and stay comfortable!
Call us
Have questions about air conditioning? Experiencing any issues with your air conditioner? Please do not hesitate to call us here at Tri-Point Refrigeration. We are committed to providing our clients with the utmost quality of service while giving your AC the TLC it deserves.
We’re excited to help you along the way, and with regular servicing, we can keep your equipment running smoothly and healthily, while also extending the reach of your dollar.
For a direct line to any of our employees ready on the line to help you, please call…(512) 651-4565 for our Austin, Texas community (806) 686-0050 for our Lubbock, Texas community. Or check out our website at https://www.tripointrefrigeration.com
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