(Newswire.net — July 17, 2019) — There are several factors that will affect how long it will take for your house to cool down. Many homeowners ask themselves the question, how long should air conditioner run to cool house? The simple answer is that it depends on several factors. Some people worry that their AC runs too much while others are worried that it’s not enough. With so many AC’s on the market, and so many different homes, it helps to know what’s normal for an air conditioner cycle.
How Long Should Air Conditioner Run to Cool House – Stay Cool This Summer
In an ideal situation, your AC should run for 15-20 minutes at a time in mild temperatures. If your unit runs for less than that, then it’s likely too large for your home. Nonetheless, there are plenty of factors that impact how long your AC runs, including:
The Temperature Outside
The hotter it is outside, the longer your AC has to run to reach your desired temperature. This is especially true in high humidity conditions. It’s quite normal when your AC runs more on extra hot days. There’s no need to be alarmed, as long as cool air is coming out of your vents and you feel comfortable.
The Setting on Your Thermostat
Setting your thermostat lower in the summer forces your unit to run for longer to reach that lower temperature. While most people want their homes to be very cool, adjusting your thermostat by just a few degrees can decrease your AC’s run time and save you on electricity.
The Size of Your Air Conditioner
The size of your AC is the biggest factor in determining your AC’s run time. An AC that’s too big will short-cycle, decreasing your AC’s run time to about 10 minutes or less and cooling your home too quickly.
Short cycling also impacts the percentage of humidity in your home. A big AC would cool the air but leave humidity levels still high. An AC that is too small won’t have the ability to cool your home adequately, so it will keep running. If your unit runs for over 20 minutes with little to no change in temperature, the chances are that it might be too small for your home.
The State of Your AC
AC’s are like most gadgets and equipment. When you maintain your AC, it will operate efficiently and even have a longer useful life. Neglecting your AC does the opposite. It won’t cool your home as well because it will have to run for longer to reach your desired temperature. This means higher electricity bills.
The Size of Your Home
A larger home will take a bit longer to cool, especially if you have a smaller AC. One of the easiest ways to decrease your unit’s run time is to strategically cool only the rooms you’re using. Instead, close off the doors and dampers, and redirect the air into your family room.
Bottom Line
There are several other factors to consider when determining how long should air conditioner run to cool house. For instance, the quality of your insulation will also determine how long your AC will run. If you are unsure, it doesn’t hurt to talk with a professional to help determine the right size AC for your home.