If you want to know, “Is it bad to turn AC off in summer?” you’re not alone. It’s a common question because it seems like turning off the air would save on utility bills, decrease your carbon footprint, or both. The answer?
It’s probably not a good idea.
The company offering the most dependable AC repair in Tulsa, OK, put together some guidelines explaining why you shouldn’t turn off the AC in the Tulsa summer and what to do instead.
Heat Destroys ACs
Some people think they’re keeping their AC in prime condition by shutting it down for a few hours each day.
You wouldn’t leave a laptop in the sun. Don’t degrade your other appliances with heat, either. If you turn off the AC in the summer, the heat negatively affects it.
Even though an AC cools your home, it’s not meant to survive lava-like temps. The heat will mess up its wiring and do the same to other big-ticket items.
Another issue: It will take a while to cool down the house if you keep it off for long periods. When you return home after a day away, your AC has to cool the whole house anew.
Your house might develop mold because nothing but musty, stagnant air fills the house for hours at a time. Blasting the air when you’re home won’t clear the mold. Unfortunately, mold costs a lot of money to clean.
Vacation Guidelines for AC Usage in the Tulsa Summer
You may wonder “Is it bad to turn AC off in summer?” if you’re planning a vacation. Here’s what you need to know.
A Quick Trip
It’s usually okay to leave the AC running while you’re on a quick trip. You can have a friend check in if you’re concerned about mishaps. But a few days without air can cause your wallpaper to peel. Also, roaches prefer warmth.
Think about returning home to all that.
A Longer Trip
If you plan on a longer trip, set your temperature at least seven degrees higher than normal, but don’t raise it over ten degrees. You could also do this on a short trip instead of coming home to an unbearably hot space.
This temperature is not severe, so it will protect the belongings in your house because the humidity remains normal. You’ll save energy while away without turning your home into a heat box. Other ways to keep your home cool while away include closing your blinds or curtains.
A Serious Consideration About Cooling Your Home in Tulsa
Your pets and anyone with health issues should not go without air conditioning. And if someone elderly lives with you, remember that older people are not always aware of the heat. If they’re left in a hot home alone, they might continue to use blankets and sweaters. This increases their risk of serious health complications, including heat stroke.
You have to consider many factors when wondering, “Is it bad to turn AC off in summer?”, especially in Tulsa.
AC Strategies for More Efficient Summer Cooling
Modern AC units offer efficient ways to cool a home. If your system needs constant repairs or is over fifteen years old, replace it with a system that has an energy-efficient design. This can save money on your electric bill, yet it will cool the house more efficiently.
A programmable thermostat can offer fantastic savings and reduce your carbon footprint. These thermometers allow you to control your temperature settings throughout the day. This means your house doesn’t operate at one high temperature all day.
A mini ductless system can allow you to manage the airflow in your home by cutting it off in certain rooms that aren’t in use. For example, if you have a guest room that is mostly empty or an office that you only use during certain times of the day, a ductless mini split allows you to cool those rooms when they’re in use.
Contact Quality Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electric for Efficient Tulsa Summer AC Solutions
Quality Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electric is ready to help if you’re wondering when it’s okay to turn off the AC in the summer, why the AC is turning off by itself, or any other AC efficiency questions.
There’s no need to waste money on poor cooling strategies. There’s no reason to endanger the people and pets you love. Our reviews show we provide a five-start service for the Tulsa area and we’re ready to help you.
Contact us at 918-212-0122 for a personalized answer to “Is it bad to turn AC off in summer?” and more.
