Should You Leave a Central Air Conditioner on All the Time in Summer?

Outdoor Ventilation

• Using air conditioners in an efficient manner begins with not using the air conditioner until it is absolutely necessary. It is tempting to turn on the air conditioner at the onset of warm weather, but instead use ceiling fans, electric room fans and open windows to circulate air and cool the house. Only when outdoor temperatures get so high that circulating outdoor air does not cool the house should you turn on the air conditioner.

Thermostat Settings

• The issue of whether it is more cost-efficient to leave the air conditioner on all the time or to turn it on only when people are home has long been debated. But if saving on energy costs is a chief concern to you, turn up your thermostat when you leave your home so that it will not run continuously while you are out. If you leave for an extended period, such as going on a summer vacation, you can turn the thermostat up even higher.

Whole House Fan

• The whole-house fan setting on central air conditioners simply circulates existing air throughout the home rather than introducing new cold air into the home. This can be used to great effect in lieu of the air conditioner, particularly when used in conjunction with other ventilation methods such as open windows and ceiling fans.

Other Considerations

• Depending on the climate in your area, however, the time might come when it will be necessary to run the air conditioner for extended periods. In these cases, regularly inspecting your air conditioner and repairing any damage greatly improves energy efficiency. Have a professional clean the condensing unit of your air conditioner prior to the onset of the warm season; this will improve the energy efficiency of your air conditioner, thereby saving energy costs.