Every summer, the same debate arises: should you turn off your air conditioner when the house is empty, or let it run?
The people who argue for turning it off have a logical case; the less your A/C runs, the less energy it uses, and the lower your energy bill will be each month. Unfortunately, it’s not that simple. While this sounds like a good idea in theory, it can cause some issues when put into practice.
Here’s what the home cooling experts from Air Treatment Heating & Cooling have to say…
Why you shouldn’t turn off your air conditioner.
When the air conditioner is turned off on a hot summer day, the temperature and humidity levels in your home can rise drastically. The hotter and more humid your home becomes, the harder your A/C will have to work to attain a comfortable temperature.
This not only forces your cooling system to work harder, it impacts your comfort levels, as it will take longer for your home to reach your desired temperature. This increases wear-and-tear on your cooling system, leaving it more susceptible to breaking down. Not to mention, most units operate at peak efficiency when running for long periods of time.
So, what should you do?
If you are leaving your house for an extended period of time, our experts recommend turning the thermostat up five degrees. This will keep your A/C from running at full speed around the clock, while also preventing the temperature and humidity levels from climbing too high. Plus, this strategy will also keep your pets comfortable while you are out and help ward off mold.
Residents of Fairfax County, Virginia can trust Air Treatment Heating & Cooling with all of their home HVAC needs. We offer a variety of heating and cooling services to help keep you comfortable all year long. If you live in Fairfax, Vienna, Arlington, or the surrounding area, contact us online or give us a call at (703) 270-0881 today.