With spring in full swing, many people are starting to plan their summer vacations. As you prepare and plan for your trip, don't forget to consider how to prepare your home, particularly your air conditioning unit, for while you're gone. When deciding whether or not to switch off your air conditioner when on vacation and away from home, there are various considerations to consider.
Should I turn my air conditioner on or off?
If your primary goal is to save money while on vacation, shutting off your air conditioning for any amount of time can help you achieve your objectives. While on vacation, though, it may be more efficient to turn up your air conditioning rather than turn it off. If you are only going away for one to three days, it is recommended that you simply set the air conditioner to a higher temperature for the duration of your trip. Allowing it to run normally to cool a house with no one in it wastes electricity, while forcing your air conditioner to work harder to cool a house that has been without air conditioning for a few days might strain it.
Setting the air conditioner thermostat to 7 to 10 degrees higher than your regular setting can allow it to run while saving energy. Closing the curtains while you're gone can also assist to keep the rooms cooler by blocking the sun. If you're going on a trip for a week or more, however, you'll save the most money by shutting off the air conditioning completely. If you have a programmable thermostat, set it to turn on a day or two before you plan to return home so it can start cooling the house in preparation for your arrival. Please keep any animals who will be remaining in the house while you are gone in mind when deciding whether or not to turn off the air conditioning while you are gone.
What effect will the weather have on your air conditioning?
The weather might also influence whether you keep your air conditioner on or switch it off. If the weather is going to be moderate while you're gone, it's probably safe to turn off the air conditioner for a few days. However, if you're going on vacation during the summer, it's advisable to set the air conditioner to a higher setting while you're away. When you decide to turn it back on after a hot day, leaving it on will prevent the unit from having to overcompensate in order to chill the house.
What effect does a well-designed home have on my air conditioning?
If your home is built for efficiency, such as with an insulated attic, modern and energy-efficient windows, or low air infiltration, you can probably switch off the air conditioning and not worry because the house will keep cooler for longer. If you have an older home without these elements, your home may heat up quickly if you switch off the air conditioning. When deciding whether to keep the air conditioner on or off, consider the age and efficiency of the house.
Our GREE Direct repair team is available to assist you at any moment during the summer or after you return from your vacation. Please contact us right away.
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