Should You Turn Off Your AC When You’re Away?
One of the most commonly held beliefs about using an air conditioner is that it is more energy efficient to leave it on all day at a comfortable temperature than to turn the AC off when you leave and turn it back on when you arrive home. Turning on the AC when you return home and trying to achieve quick cooling is inefficient and results in a lot of energy waste in your Cookville, Texas, home.
The Facts
Leaving your air conditioner on is actually more efficient than frequently turning it on and off. Having your AC on also allows you to better control humidity in your home throughout the day. The lower the humidity in a home, the more comfortable it feels during hot weather.
You think turning the AC off while you are gone will save electricity. However, trying to cool your home later, means the AC will have to run for longer before cycling off and this can mean significant energy consumption.
When it’s hot outside, you will quickly learn that turning off the AC is not the best way to save energy. You will return to a hot home and it will take much longer to restore comfortable temperatures. This can take a real toll on comfort and even health.
There are effective ways to keep your home comfortable throughout the day, that still allow you to save energy.
Actual Ways to Save Energy
A programmable thermostat is perhaps the most effective way you can manage temperatures in your home.
Install a Programmable Thermostat: you can set the thermostat for higher, energy-saving temperatures when you leave; and program it to reach comfortable temperatures in time for your return home. Using this strategy could save you up to 15 percent on your cooling bills. Observe recommended guidelines for programming your thermostat so that you take advantage of energy-saving methods.
The only time turning off your AC might be advantageous is when you are leaving home for a week or more. Using a smart thermostat with a vacation programming mode can help to make sure your home is at a comfortable temperature when you return.
If you would like to learn about more ways to reduce your cooling bills, contact the HVAC professionals at Wood Air Conditioning & Plumbing today. We can provide energy-saving systems and solutions for your home and business.
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