If you don’t like the weather in Hoffman Estates, just wait five minutes! The weather is constantly changing throughout each season, which means your HVAC system has to be able to pivot quickly based on your needs. Some days, you need the AC, but other days are nice enough to open the windows and let the fresh air in.
So, is it bad to keep turning the AC on and off as needed?
Leith Heating & Cooling offers premier HVAC in Hoffman Estates and answers this question expertly below.
Can I Start and Stop My AC Unit?
It is a common belief that constantly starting and stopping your AC unit is harder on your system, so you might assume AC wear and tear from constant restarts happens regularly. That is simply not true.
While it is important to remember that cooling down a particularly warm house does require more energy, letting your unit run all day every day is harder on your unit than turning it on only when you need to.
However, there are some considerations when it comes to deciding if AC cycling vs. continuous cooling is right for you:
- Extreme heat: If a heatwave overwhelms the Hoffman Estates community, keeping your AC unit running is not a bad idea. If your home temperature starts to rise the moment the system goes off, letting it run uses less energy when it is extremely hot out.
- Extended trips: If you have a trip coming up or a long weekend away somewhere, you may think that turning off your system is a good idea. Don’t simply turn it off! Setting the right AC thermostat temperature before leaving the house will ensure it keeps your home at a reasonable temperature for your return.
Maintaining Comfort With Optimal AC Usage in Hoffman Estates
It’s the job of your AC unit to keep you comfortable, so you should use it! Turn it on when you need it and don’t feel bad about turning it off when you don’t. However, it is possible to maintain your comfort while also adjusting your AC usage along the way.
Increase Thermostat Settings
Does your family like to walk around your house in t-shirts and shorts during summers in Hoffman Estates? Or do you all prefer wearing sweatshirts and cozying up with a blanket while the AC runs at full blast?
Either way, moving your thermostat dial up or down even just a few degrees helps your system run more efficiently, and your comfort won’t suffer either. Doing so also leads to savings over time. So, is it bad to keep turning the AC on and off? No, and it keeps more money in your pocket!
Address Maintenance Quickly
While AC units last for many years, they do experience wear and tear from time to time. This is why routine maintenance is so important! Catching issues early and deep cleaning your system regularly will allow your unit to function more efficiently. Tackle these simple maintenance tasks on your own if possible, or enlist the help of a professional HVAC company to handle them for you.
Daily Tasks to Support Your AC
In addition to ensuring your AC unit is running as efficiently as possible, doing these tasks helps keep your Hoffman Estates home cool at no added cost:
- Close blinds and curtains during the heat of the day.
- Reduce the use of appliances that use heat, like ovens and dryers.
- Turn the ceiling and box fans on to circulate the air.
- Keep windows and doors closed when the AC is running.
Smart Thermostats for Efficient AC Control
Now it’s time to talk about supporting your AC unit by investing in a programmable thermostat. Running back and forth to your thermostat all day to turn it on and off is time-consuming. Let your system do the work for you by adding a smart thermostat to your home! Smart thermostats support the energy efficiency of frequent AC on or off settings.
If you program your smart thermostat based on your family’s preferences and daily routine, it will turn on and off by itself according to the schedule you set. Some models nowadays will also learn your family’s habits and will adjust accordingly.
Some smart thermostats also come with apps that connect to your smartphone. If you are away on a trip or are coming home from work, remotely turn on your AC unit so icy cool air greets you when you walk in the door.
Tips for Supporting Your Entire AC Unit in Hoffman Estates
Taking care of your system will support the longevity of your equipment while also reducing the risk of experiencing a failure somewhere in your AC unit. Prioritizing these tasks is a great way to ensure you stay cool no matter what kind of Indiana weather comes your way:
- Swap out or clean air filters: Changing air filters seasonally is important for optimal performance. Dirt and debris build up along the material, which impacts your AC’s ability to function smoothly. Find the right-sized filter at a local home improvement store and change it out every 90 days. You should also clean and wipe down the exterior vents and screens to remove dust buildup.
- Schedule routine inspections: The best malfunction is the one that never happens! Having your system serviced annually is a great way to catch emerging issues before they become serious. A professional HVAC team will perform a full evaluation of your unit and will tackle minor repairs quickly.
Proper care of your AC unit will result in a longer lifespan for your equipment as well as increased comfort for years to come.
Even though you have determined that the answer to the question, “Is it bad to keep turning the AC on and off?” is no, your AC unit is still vulnerable to malfunctions from time to time.
The team at Leith Heating & Cooling is here to keep your Hoffman Estates home cool and cozy. Contact our talented technicians today at (847)-860-7092 to schedule an AC inspection.