Summer is here! It’s time to pack your bags, get the kids ready, stop the mail, and take the dog to the kennel – it’s vacation time! Whether you’re heading to the beach or the mountains, it’s a great opportunity to spend quality time with your family, rest, relax, and enjoy a break from work.
If you’re a planner like me, you probably have a “To Do” list for your vacation:
- Hire a dog sitter. Check.
- Stop your mail. Check.
- Go to the library and pick out a new book. Check.
- Finish off the leftovers in the refrigerator. Check.
- Turn off the air conditioner. Wait… should you check this off your list?
Many people think turning off the air conditioner is a good idea when going on vacation. It saves energy, so it saves you money, right? While that might sound good, there are better reasons to leave it on but perhaps turn up the temperature a few degrees.
High Humidity in Raleigh
Here in the Triangle, you’re used to hot and humid summers. The air feels thick and sticky every time you walk outside. Humidity enters your home when you open the door, through poorly sealed ductwork, and poorly insulated windows and doors.
Your air conditioner is your best defense against the humid conditions in your home. While some homes employ dehumidifiers, most homes stay cool and comfortable without them, thanks to an efficient air conditioner. With the proper run time, an air conditioner reduces humidity and cools your home.
If you turn off your air conditioner, even for a few days, humidity will build up in your home, making it feel stifling when you return. Excessive humidity contributes to microbial and bacterial growth and can damage your floors and furniture.
Too Much Heat Build-Up Leads to Hard Work for Your A/C
If you turn off your air conditioner during the summer for days at a time, the temperature in your home can soar to the upper eighties or nineties by the time you return. Your air conditioner will have to work harder than usual to reach your desired temperature. Not only will it take longer to cool your home, but it’s also not good for your air conditioner. It will strain to compensate for the built-up heat, making it less energy-efficient.
Did you know your air conditioner uses more energy each time it starts versus running consistently? It takes significantly more energy to cool your home when the A/C hasn’t been running for an extended period. So, turning off the air conditioner won’t actually save energy – it could cost you more in the long run.
So, What Should You Do?
Turn up the temperature in your home a few degrees, ideally by five to eight degrees. If you have a programmable thermostat, set it to start cooling your home before you return. Keep your blinds and curtains closed to block out direct sunlight. These small adjustments can make a big difference.
Enjoy your vacation with peace of mind, knowing your home will be comfortable when you return. If you have more questions, please contact the professionals at Delta Heating & Cooling in Raleigh, NC. We’re here to ensure your home remains cool and comfortable all summer long.