Is It Bad to Run Your AC All Day? 4 Summertime Tips
When the mercury goes up in the summer, it’s common to leave the air conditioning running all day. Your family probably did it when you were young, and your neighbors probably do it, too. Unfortunately, keeping the cold air on all day long can do more harm than good.
Why It’s Bad to Keep Your AC Running All Day
Your AC works by circulating cooled air through your home until the desired temperature is reached. This means that your AC works harder during the hot summer months to keep your home at a consistent temperature, using more energy and resulting in a higher utility bill. Putting a higher demand on your AC during the hottest months of the year also causes more wear on your unit’s mechanical parts, which increases the likelihood of malfunction.
AC Maintenance Tips for Summer
Luckily, you don’t have to sacrifice cool air in the summer to preserve your AC. This season, give your hardworking unit a little extra support with the following maintenance tips.
1. Install a Smart Thermostat
If you don’t have one already, a smart thermostat can be a game-changer in your AC’s energy requirements. To save energy and money on your monthly bill, program the thermostat to turn on when the home is occupied and AC demands are highest. Most smart thermostats can also be controlled via mobile app, so you can adjust your temperature settings even when you’re not at home.
2. Change Air Filters More Often
Air filters are necessary to trap and prevent airborne contaminants from clogging up your unit. They tend to accumulate these contaminants faster during periods of increased AC usage, so it’s recommended to change the filters more frequently during the summer. For example, if you normally change your AC filters ever three moths, switch to monthly changes in the summer. Not only does this keep your interior air clean and contaminant-free, but it also helps your air conditioner work more efficiently.
3. Close Blinds and Turn On Fans
Before blasting your AC, consider closing your blinds and turning on ceiling fans during the afternoon, the hottest part of the day. Doing this can bring down the interior temperature of your home, removing some of the burden from your cooling system. For even more benefits, consider investing in smart ceiling fans or insulating blinds.
4. Schedule a Routine Inspection
There are few things worse than experiencing an AC malfunction in the middle of the summer. You can avoid this entirely by scheduling a routine inspection from a licensed technician. During the inspection, the technician will identify potential issues, provide needed repairs, and suggest ways to optimize your appliance for the summer.
Get Expert Help
As long as you plan ahead, you can support your AC and enjoy a cool breezy summer inside your own home. For more information about summertime AC services in Santa Barbara, CA, contact the industry experts at Crocker Refrigeration Heating & Air.
