Should You Turn Off Your AC When You’re Not At Home?
Most homeowners continue to look for ways to save money on electricity and energy consumption. However, turning off your air conditioner when not at home isn’t a great way to save on costs. In fact, this can cause humidity, heat, and moisture levels to rise in your home. This may result in mold spores, uncomfortable temperatures when you return, and a host of other issues.
AC Tips: Is It Cheaper To Leave Air Conditioner On All Day?
In this article, we discuss why you should leave your AC on instead of turning it off when you are away for the day. We also discuss some alternative solutions to help you save money on your energy costs.
Turn Your Thermostat Up When Leaving Home
Instead of turning your air conditioner off, simply turn up the temperature on your thermostat. This will protect your home from mold, bugs, and excessive moisture and humidity. Similarly, it keeps your home’s rooms cool and comfortable for loved ones and pets. Most of all, this is a great way to save money and preserve your system’s performance.
Why Turning Your Air Conditioning System Off Is Bad
Your HVAC system is designed to cool your home’s air. It also dehumidifies the air for optimal comfort and proper airflow. Therefore, turning it completely off causes the humidity levels to rise up to 60 percent. This attracts insect infestations and is ideal for mold growth across your home.
HVAC experts recommend setting your system’s humidity level between 45% – 55%. This will correlate with your unit’s automatic function when it kicks on. The temperatures will remain cool, and all rooms and zones will receive sufficient air.
Keep Your Home Comfortable While Away
Whether planning a family vacation or leaving the house for several hours, turn your thermostat up to 7-10 degrees. This manages the indoor humidity level while keeping your home comfortable when you get back. No homeowner likes a humid, stuffy property to get back to. With a programmable thermostat, you have the freedom of controlling your home’s temperatures at desired settings. It will automatically adjust the temperature, based on the schedule that you set it to. This way, you won’t have to remember to change the thermostat when leaving. You won’t have to cool an empty home. Also, you will be able to come home to a house that is the perfect temperature for you!
Consider Digital Thermostat Solutions
Programmable thermostats continue to soar in global popularity. These units are user-friendly and let you and yours easily set desired temperatures. Similarly, you can control humidity levels while setting cooling schedules for the week or month. Keep your thermostats on automatic since “on” can cause your system to overrun, causing damage vital parts and components.
A digital thermostat enables you to set it and forget it. You can control your home’s temperature from any internet-enabled device. Also, it learns your schedule and automatically adjusts the temperature. These devices have been proven to save energy and reduce home cooling costs. It is a great and better alternative to turning off your AC unit.
Why Programmable Thermostats Are Essential
Programmable thermostats do a lot more than just cool your home at desired settings. In fact, you are able to set a change in temperature at multiple times throughout the day. For example, you can maintain or increase the temperature if you are at work from nine to five daily. This gives you a nice, cool home to come back to at the end of the day.
What About Energy Savings On Cooling Costs?
Turning your air conditioner off offers nothing for energy and cost savings. In fact, it can have reverse effects since your unit will take time to reach peak performance levels again. This will cost you time and money while dealing with a hot, humid, and moisture-filled home.
Again, digital thermostats are the best way to control and maintain desired temperatures. However, there are other ways to save on energy while away from home:
- Close your windows, doors, and curtains to pocket the cool air and prevent exterior heat from getting in.
- Unplug your appliances and electronics if going away on vacation. It will be up to you to unplug or keep your refrigerator/fridge plugged in.
- Change your AC system’s air filters to restore energy-efficiency and performance.
- Make sure you keep registers and air vents clear and free from debris.
These are some of the best ways to save energy and money without turning your AC systems off. However, it is still important to have your HVAC systems serviced and maintained at least twice a year by a reputable HVAC company.
Conclusion
Lawes Company is a trusted HVAC company that offers affordable heating and cooling system services. We have NATE certified technicians on staff who can do an excellent job for you.
At Lawes Company, we offer top-class HVAC repairs, installations, tune-ups, and replacements. Our experts have the skills and expertise to provide you with practical and affordable HVAC solutions. Our services aim to improve your energy efficiency, comfort levels, and indoor air quality. Get in touch with us today, and we will be happy to serve you.
Click here to contact us now or call us at (732) 741-6300 to find out more!