Should You Constantly Switch Your AC On and Off, or Leave It Running All Day?

Is it more advantageous to constantly switch your air conditioning on and off, or should you simply leave it running all day long?
Tl;dr
- Turning the air conditioning on and off may consume more energy.
- Keeping it on, at a minimum power, helps maintain a stable temperature.
- Several ways to reduce energy consumption are suggested.
Understanding Air Conditioning Use And Energy Consumption
As the mercury soars, the importance of air conditioning in our homes is undeniable. But it also represents one of the largest sources of energy consumption. The question arises: should we turn the air conditioner off and on repeatedly, or keep it running?
On or Off: The Air Conditioning Dilemma
At first glance, turning off the air conditioner might seem like the most energy-efficient option. However, when it’s switched back on, the system needs to work at maximum capacity to cool the environment again. This process can result in a higher energy expenditure compared to keeping it at a constant 25° C.
This intensive cooling process occurs because, when switched off, the room’s temperature increases, and the air conditioner must work harder to restore the desired climate. On the other hand, keeping it on at minimum power allows maintaining a stable temperature and avoiding consumption peaks when turning it back on. “This strategy can be more efficient in the long run, depending on specific household conditions and the condition of the equipment,” says an air conditioning technician.
Reducing Air Conditioning Energy Consumption
Here are some recommendations for reducing the energy consumption of your air conditioner:
- Switch it off when the house is empty for several hours or days to avoid unnecessary consumption.
- Adjust the temperature between 24°C and 25°C to avoid excessive energy use.
- Keep doors and windows closed while it’s running to prevent loss of cool air.
- Use curtains, blinds, or awnings to block heat entry and reduce the room’s thermal load.
- Take advantage of natural ventilation during cooler hours to reduce air conditioner use.
Also, regular maintenance of the equipment, cleaning the filters, checking the system to ensure its efficiency, and using fans to better distribute the cold air can help reduce the need to lower the air conditioner temperature. Avoid placing heat sources near the unit, such as lamps or appliances, as they can make the system work more than necessary. Choosing devices with Inverter technology can also help regulate energy consumption more efficiently compared to traditional models.