Running Air Conditioner?

Question

I was told by a builder that it is cheaper to set your A/C a couple of degrees lower that normal (like if you normally set it at 75, set it at 73 or 74) Does this make sense, it does not to me..?? It is suppose to stop your unit from turning off and on as much. This is where the higher cost come from.........?????????????

Answer 1

You might save a little money, very little.

Motors are the biggest consumers of power. The A/C has two (compressor and fan) and the refridgerator has two. Shaded pole motors like your can opener and bathroom fan don't pull much current at all so they don't count.

Answer 2

This is contrary to the truth. In fact, setting your thermostat higher than 75° saves about 4 per cent of its operating cost for every degree. You're better off setting it at 78°.

Energy is used in both cooling and dehumidifying. The cycling of the unit does use slightly more energy, but only in the first couple of seconds. Furthermore, turning the thermostat to a lower temperature will actually increase the cycling, since there will be a greater differential between the inside and outside of the home and heat will be entering more quickly.

You can save energy by a number of other methods. Install ceiling fans. Set the temp. higher when you are not at home. Turn off the vents in unused rooms. Close window shades.

Answer 3

Nopain00 is right. An A/C unit works using a difference in temperature, the cooler you set the thermostat the greater amount of energy you'll consume. The best way to make your AC unit more efficient is to isolate the room you are cooling, double plate windows, doors, and so on.

Answer 4

of course it will save money, thats like asking "if i dont drive my car alot, will i save gas?' yes of course you will

Answer 5

Which way is "up" here???

Answer 6

That's a myth......