Exploring the benefits and possible drawbacks of keeping an air conditioner at a constant temperature and how this can be done properly with the right thermostat settings.
An air conditioning system allows you to enjoy the pleasures of cooled air in your home and it gets rid of the heat and humidity inside to release cooler air into a space. Running an air conditioner needs strategic cooling planning.
Setting your unit to cycle in a certain way can be a strategic method of using energy more conservatively, which, in turn, can help you save on electricity costs.
Running an AC at a constant temperature
People with air conditioners use their units differently for certain conditions that suit their needs and comfort, the space they are cooling or heating, and their pockets as it pertains to running costs.
Most methods are adopted as a way of saving money on the amount of energy an air conditioner consumes and this helps them do that.
One of these methods includes keeping the air conditioner at a constant temperature, but should this be done and is it beneficial in any way?
Is it better to keep your AC at a constant temperature?
Many people may find themselves wrestling with whether it is a good idea to set your air conditioner at a constant temperature and if there are any benefits to it.
Those who do keep their air conditioner temperature constant either find the temperature comforting or are avoiding constantly changing, which can prove to be inconvenient and less energy-efficient.
One of the benefits of keeping your air conditioner at a constant temperature is the convenience when you are away for long periods.
Ultimately, it is best to adjust your thermostat when your home is empty for extended durations and set the thermostat to a comfortable temperature when you are home.
This is known as a thermostat setback. Investing in a programmable thermostat may be the best option for your air conditioner, especially for when you are out or if you are forgetful about adjusting your temperatures.
Depending on the air conditioner you have, some units actually come with a built-in programmable thermostat that can be set using the remote control.
Your thermostat should be set to a constant 68 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter and at 78 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer. Lowering the thermostat by seven to 10 degrees when you are asleep or out is convenient.
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$19.99 |
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Are there any drawbacks to keeping AC temperatures constant?
Keeping your air conditioner at a constant temperature, in some instances, is not ideal. This is because it accelerates heat-energy loss in the home. To balance itself out, heat travels from where there is a lot of heat to where there is less of it.
Keeping the temperature constant, in most cases, keeps the thermal energy (heat) inside the house constant. With the air conditioner trying to maintain the heat energy inside, it can increase electricity usage.
How to efficiently control your thermostat
One of the best ways to assist your thermostat at a constant temperature is to ensure that your home is well insulated.
This means that doors, windows, and other parts of the home need to be thoroughly insulated to prevent any air from flowing in from the outside, or air escaping from the inside.
This maintains the efficiency of your air conditioner thermostat settings. Following an eight-hour routine can also help you. Set the temperature higher when you leave for up to eight hours, and lower when you return.
The importance of thermostat location
The location of your programmable thermostat is a factor in ensuring optimal performance and efficiency. Reading the manufacturer guidelines on installation prevents the thermostat from getting incorrect readings.
The thermostat needs to be placed on an interior wall, unexposed to direct sunlight, drafts, doorways, skylights, and windows as these can confuse the readings of the thermostat and cause the air conditioner to work according to what it is picking up.
This can result in your air conditioner cooling or heating at the wrong temperatures at the wrong time, making it inefficient.