How Long Can You Leave Your Air Conditioner Running?
Entering your home after a long day of work during the summer to be greeted by a blast of cool air is what we would all like. The question is whether running it all day is worth the hefty electricity bill and repair bill.
Cost of Running an AC
Various factors could influence the cost of running an AC. Some of these factors include the size of the space, whether openings such as doors are closed, the temperature outside, and the cost of electricity. The location of the thermometer can also influence how you choose to run your air conditioner.
When You Should Run Your AC
You typically use your AC when the weather is hot. Therefore, it is advisable to be aware of how to get the most out of your AC. It is crucial to know your air conditioner’s limits to know whether you are overworking the unit. If you don’t feel a change after fifteen to twenty minutes of turning the AC on, there might be an issue with the unit, or it is not a good fit. Consider getting a bigger unit if you notice the AC requires more than 30 minutes to take effect. However, an oversized unit will cool your house down for ten minutes causing it to keep on turning off and on, causing short-cycling, which can lead to unsteady temperature, inefficient electricity usage, and power spikes.
Should You Turn The Unit Off When Not Home?
Coming home to a cool house might seem like a great idea, but if you left the unit running for hours, the energy consumption would be excess. However, there are some things you should consider.
- How long you will be out of the house? If you are out of the house for a couple of minutes, it would be wise for you and your bills to leave it on.
- Consider your pet’s comfort. Your house could get too hot, making it uncomfortable for pets.
- Turn off the AC at night. Our bodies generate less heat during the night and therefore do not require the help of an AC. The nighttime also tends to be much cooler than the daytime.
Feel free to contact Savannah Air Factory at your convenience for more information regarding HVAC units in the Savannah area. In addition to installation, repair and maintenance, we provide ductless and hybrid systems, whole-home air filtration, ventilation and dehumidifiers.