If you’re trying to save on energy bills, it’s common to wonder, “Should I turn the AC off when I leave the house?” Deciding whether to turn off or adjust your air conditioning when you’re away can make a difference in both comfort and costs. Here’s a closer look at what happens when you turn your AC off versus simply adjusting it and what an air conditioning contractor might recommend for the best balance.
The Case for Turning the AC Off
One reason people think about turning the AC off when they leave is to avoid wasting energy on cooling an empty house. By turning the system off, you can reduce electricity use, which means saving on your energy bill.
However, it’s not always as simple as turning it off and forgetting about it. If it’s extremely hot outside, letting the house heat up might mean your AC has to work even harder to cool things back down when you return, which could make up for any energy saved.
The Alternative: Adjusting Your Thermostat
Instead of completely shutting the AC off, an air conditioning contractor might suggest just adjusting your thermostat to a warmer setting. For example, raising the temperature by 7-10 degrees while you’re gone can save energy but still keep the house from becoming uncomfortably warm. When you get home, you can reset the temperature to your usual setting, and the AC won’t need to work as hard to reach it.
Smart Thermostats Make It Easier
If you want the best of both worlds—saving energy without coming home to a stifling hot house—consider using a smart thermostat. These devices let you control the temperature from your smartphone, so you can adjust it while you’re away and cool things down just before you return. Plus, some smart thermostats “learn” your habits and can automatically adjust the temperature for you.
Pros and Cons of Turning Off the AC
Pros:
- Energy Savings: Turning off the AC completely will save energy.
- Lower Bills: Less energy use generally means lower costs.
Cons:
- Higher Cooling Demand: If the house heats up too much, your AC will need to work harder, which could impact energy savings.
- Humidity Concerns: Turning off the AC entirely could allow indoor humidity to build up, which can lead to moisture issues or mold growth, especially in humid climates.
What an Air Conditioning Contractor Recommends
Most air conditioning contractors advise against turning the AC completely off during hot weather, especially if you’re away for just a few hours. Instead, they suggest setting the thermostat higher. This way, you’re still reducing energy use, but the AC won’t have to work as hard to bring temperatures back down when you return.
Key Takeaways
So, should you turn your AC off when leaving the house? Not necessarily. Adjusting the temperature instead of turning it off can provide a good balance of comfort and energy savings. And with a programmable or smart thermostat, it’s easy to save money without sacrificing comfort.
