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How Long Should An Air Conditioner Run To Cool A House?

Though it has many different facets to it, the question of how long an air conditioner should run to cool a house is an important one. You want to ensure you and your family remain comfortable during the humid months, but you also need to run your AC unit efficiently.

Although there are different theories on the best way to cool down a home there are definitely some do’s and don’ts to follow. Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your air conditioner this summer and for years to come.

Should You Run Your AC All Day To Help Cool Down Your Home?

The simple and easy answer is no. There are a number of reasons not to run your AC all day. Economically, even when set to a lower temperature, it costs more to run your unit all day than to shut it on and off. Also, wasting energy means wasting resources and creating a larger carbon footprint.

The amount of time you run your AC is really up to you, but if you want to save energy and money, do not shut off your AC when you leave your home for the day. Raise it to a comfortable temperature to manage indoor humidity. Remember to ensure all windows are shut and curtains are drawn to trap as much cool air in your home as possible (and to keep the warm sun rays out).

A Clean Filter is Key

The filter for your AC is a vital element to the system that should be inspected every one to two months and changed when needed. A clogged filter means less cool air, plus your system will need to work harder and dust and allergens can collect in the system and get blown into your home.

Air conditioner filters

Install a Programmable Thermostat

If your home doesn’t already have one, make sure you install a programmable thermostat. They can save you money and energy by maintaining the right temperature all day long. New smart thermostats can even be adjusted or turned on and off with an app on your phone.

Keep the Cool Air Inside your Home

As stated earlier, you want to trap as much cool air in your home as possible. This means weatherizing your home. A few easy ways to do this include sealing any air leaks with caulking and weather-stripping, adding insulation around AC ducts, and hanging up dark curtains.

Have a Professional Inspect your AC Unit

Having a certified technician inspect your air conditioner is the best way to ensure you get the most out of your unit. They will know what to look at to see if anything is broken or will need to be repaired in the future. This will help you save money on more expensive repairs down the road and can avoid the need to purchase a whole new unit.[1]

To find out more about how long an air conditioner should run to cool a house down, contact the cooling experts at Handy Bros. Home Comfort.

[1] 12 Air Conditioner Tips to Beat the Heat. Angie’s List. Available online https://www.angieslist.com/articles/12-air-conditioner-tips-beat-heat.htm.