When leaving your home for long periods during the day or leaving for vacation, you might wonder: Is turning off your AC bad? In this post, the experts at Gold Star Services discuss what happens when you turn off your A/C, and what you can do instead.

Is Turning Off Your AC Bad?

It seems logical that cooling an empty house is a waste of money that puts unnecessary strain on your system. This might be true during certain months, such as early spring or late fall. During warmer months, however, turning off your A/C can have several adverse effects.

With your unit turned off, higher temperatures in the home mean humidity also rises. A hot and humid home invites insect infestations and encourages the growth of mold and bacteria. Floors and furniture are subject to cracking and warping with extreme temperature shifts, and some appliances may overheat. On that note, your refrigerator will need to work harder to maintain its cooler temperatures, which consumes more energy.

It’s also important to note that while your A/C is off, the air in your home is not circulating through air filters, which can lead to poor indoor air quality. Lastly, leaving your unit off can make your home uncomfortable not only for pets, but for your return. Your unit will need to work extra hard to bring temperatures back down, which can end up using more energy than it would have if it remained on during your absence.

What You Can Do Instead

• Turn your thermostat up when you leave (3-5 degrees when leaving for work, 7-10 when leaving for vacation – but always ensure comfortable temperatures for pets)
• Close windows, doors and curtains to keep exterior heat out
• Invest in a programmable thermostat

Digital thermostats are rapidly rising in popularity. They can be controlled with any internet-enabled device such as your smart phone. This allows you to set multiple temperature changes throughout the day, according to your schedule. It’s a great way to save on cooling costs.

Aside from following these energy-saving tips, it’s always a good idea to have your system inspected, cleaned and tuned up by a professional annually. This ensures your system can run at maximum efficiency, whether you are at home or away.

Gold Star Services operates with a team of highly skilled HVAC technicians to provide the five-star customer care we’re known for. Our services include heating, cooling and water heater repair, replacement and maintenance. Call 1-302-947-8694 to get started with Gold Star Services today!