What Is an Air Conditioner Cycle Time?

Energy Efficiency

• The energy efficiency of an air conditioner improves as it runs. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, most air conditioners reach the peak of efficiency after about 10 minutes of operation. If the air conditioner cycles on and off in less time, it never reaches peak efficiency and has higher energy costs.

Humidity Control

• The air conditioner's efficiency at removing humidity also improves with longer cycles. The air conditioner will remove more humidity from the air per minute after operating longer. This means longer cycles control humidity better than numerous short cycles. One 10-minute cycle will remove more humidity than two 5-minute cycles.

Comfort Level

• The air conditioner will operate from the time the thermostat calls for cooling until the home has cooled to the desired level. A rapid temperature change occurs if the air conditioner accomplishes this level of change in a matter of minutes. This can be uncomfortable and actually produce cold drafts within the home while the air conditioner is cycling.

Air Conditioner Size

• Short cycles are commonly caused by an air conditioner with too much capacity for the home. This is an area where more is not better. An air conditioner with twice the necessary capacity could have cycles that are half the length of a properly sized unit. Homeowners should work with a heating and cooling professional to determine the correct size of air conditioner based on the size and construction of their home and the local climate conditions.