When summer hits and temperatures soar, it’s tempting to turn off your air conditioning entirely while you’re at work, hoping to save on energy bills. However, this seemingly money-saving tactic can lead to higher costs and discomfort in the long run. Here’s why you should reconsider turning off your AC completely during extreme heat and what you can do instead to save energy and stay comfortable.
Avoid the Catch-Up Challenge
Turning off your AC completely during the day might seem like a good idea, but it can backfire when you return home. Here’s what happens when you opt for off.
Intense heat buildup
With the AC off, your home absorbs heat all day. The walls, floors, and furniture soak up the warmth, creating a stifling environment inside. Additionally, the lack of cooling airflow can lead to increased humidity, making the air feel even heavier and more uncomfortable.
Extended run time
When you turn the AC back on after a long, hot day, it has to work overtime to cool down not just the air but all the heated surfaces. This means running nonstop for a longer period, using more energy than if it had been on a lower setting all day.
Uncomfortable homecoming
You’ll face an uncomfortably warm home for a considerable time while waiting for the AC to catch up. Instead of enjoying a cool, welcoming environment, you’ll be left sweating it out until your air conditioning reaches the right temperature.
Hidden Costs of Turning Off Your Air Conditioning
Running your AC nonstop to bring down the temperature from an extreme high can spike your energy bills. The energy consumption during this extended cooling period often outweighs the savings you thought you were making by turning it off. Essentially, you end up paying more because the AC has to run longer and harder to reach a comfortable temperature.
Effective Cooling Strategies for Energy Savings
To strike a balance between comfort and energy savings, consider these two effective strategies:
Adjust the temperature, don’t turn off the AC
Instead of turning your AC off completely, set it to a higher temperature when you’re away, ideally up to 7 degrees higher than your usual setting. This approach keeps your home reasonably cool, preventing extreme heat buildup. When you return and lower the temperature, the AC will have a shorter run time to achieve the desired cooling, saving energy and maintaining comfort.
Utilize a smart thermostat
Smart thermostats offer advanced features to optimize your cooling efforts and save you money:
Remote Control
Smart thermostats allow you to adjust your home’s temperature from anywhere using a smartphone app. Turn the AC on before you leave work, so your home is cool by the time you arrive.
Scheduling
Set schedules to automatically adjust temperatures based on your routine. For example, set it to a higher temperature during work hours and lower it shortly before you return.
Energy Insights
Many smart thermostats provide energy usage reports, helping you understand and optimize your energy consumption patterns.
Conclusion
Turning off your AC during extreme heat may seem like a cost-saving measure, but it can lead to higher energy bills and uncomfortable home conditions. By setting your AC to a slightly higher temperature when you’re away or using a smart thermostat to manage your cooling needs, you can achieve a more energy-efficient and comfortable home environment. Embrace these smarter cooling strategies to beat the heat without breaking the bank.
If you live in the Delaware Valley/Greater Philadelphia area and would like to find comfort within your home, visit our website or give us a call at 215 - 245 - 3200 to learn more.
