Is it bad to keep turning the AC on and off?

Author: Maureen Murray  |  Last update: Friday, July 4, 2025

Yes, frequently turning your AC on and off can be bad for the unit. It causes wear and tear on the system, reduces efficiency, and leads to higher energy bills. Here's a closer look at why this happens.

Is it bad to turn AC on and off frequently?

Constantly turning your AC on and off can increase energy usage and wear out the system faster, while proper balance can optimize efficiency. Smart thermostats and correct AC usage timing can save energy and costs, with settings like 78°F recommended for comfort and efficiency.

Is it more expensive to keep turning AC on and off?

Turning the AC on and off frequently can lead to higher energy costs for a few reasons: Start-Up Energy Surge: When an air conditioning unit starts up, it requires more energy than it does during regular operation.

Is it bad for AC to cycle on and off?

Because it can take much longer to cool your space with a short cycling HVAC system, you'll suffer from higher energy bills. The continuous powering on and off negatively affects your heating or AC unit's moving parts. Your system may need repairs prematurely.

Is it bad for my AC to run constantly?

An undersized air conditioning system most commonly manifests as an air conditioner that never stops running. When this occurs, cooling coil pressure will start to drop before freezing over, which could damage your AC's compressor.

9 Reasons Why Your Air Conditioner Starts Then Stops Quickly

Is it good to give your AC a break?

This will reduce the strain placed on your AC unit, allowing it to run more efficiently, and lowering your energy bills. Bottom line, while it's not necessary to give your AC unit rest breaks during summer, its maintenance is essential.

How long is too long for AC to run?

If you're like many people, you might be wondering how long your air conditioner can run without getting damaged. The answer is simple. Your AC could theoretically run for 24 hours a day all summer long without issue. Of course, the longer it runs, the more wear and tear it will experience.

Is it better to run AC continuously or in intervals?

The short answer is yes, it is cheaper to leave your air conditioner on all day. But this does not mean that you should leave it on full blast, keeping your home so cold that you need a sweater or jacket to be comfortable.

Is it bad to keep changing AC temperature?

Avoid constantly changing your thermostat settings, and instead, aim for a steady temperature that keeps your home comfortable without causing your HVAC system to run inefficiently. Don't wait.

What is considered AC short cycling?

Short cycling is the term used when the cooling cycle on an air conditioning unit is shorter than it should be. On a hot day, this will typically last 10 minutes and then stop for 10 minutes, and so on. On cooler days, the breaks will be longer. However, AC short cycling disturbs this pattern.

Does turning AC on and off increase bill?

Although many people believe that it is more costly to turn your AC on and off vs. leaving it on, this is entirely false.

Is it better to keep AC running or turn on and off?

As it turns out, the most efficient way to keep your home cool and the bills low is to leave the AC running—ideally, with the temperature turned up toward the upper 70s.

Is it okay to run an air conditioner 24/7?

There are a few reasons you don't want to run your AC system all the time: System stress: Your air conditioner unit needs time to take a break. If it's running all the time, it can be damaging to the system and lead to the need for a costly replacement. Energy bills: The cost to run your AC 24/7 can be high.

Does it cost more to keep AC running or turn it on and off?

Well, it depends. After all, turning the AC on and off costs more initially. However, leaving your AC on all day consumes more energy and adds wear and tear to your system, which may cost you more money for repairs in the long run.

Is it bad to turn AC off in summer?

If temperatures will remain mild, it's okay to turn the AC off. However, if scorching temperatures are forecasted, HVAC companies recommend keeping the AC on at a setting of 80 or lower to prevent excess heat and humidity from taking a toll on your home's structure, cooling appliances, and contents.

Is it OK to turn on AC all day?

Experts tell us that it is safe to have your window air conditioner running 24/7. No part inside the air conditioner will get too hot and melt if you keep it running all day. The performance of the air conditioner, too, won't suffer if you forget to turn it off.

Is 72 too cold for AC?

While the standard room temperature of 72 degrees Fahrenheit is commonly favored by many, others argue for higher settings, particularly when it's hotter outside.

Is it bad to turn your thermostat on and off?

Though you should beware that manipulating your thermostat too often can lead to inefficient use of energy, raising your energy bill. Therefore, be sure to set your Wi-Fi thermostat to adjust it as few times a day as possible to increase efficiency.

Is it bad to turn AC up and down?

No, it is in fact not bad to keep turning your AC unit on and off. It might seem like a waste of energy to keep tampering with the AC settings throughout the day, but it can actually save you money on your energy bill. Air conditioners work best at cooling and dehumidifying when they run at full speed.

Does AC need to rest?

Allowing your air conditioner to rest is an excellent way to extend its life and ensure it operates efficiently throughout the years. Air conditioners, like homeowners, require rest in order to recover and perform optimally.

How often should AC kick on and off?

Typical AC Cooling Cycles

An AC that works will typically perform two or three cycles an hour. On moderately hot days, your AC should typically only run for 10-15 minutes to cool your house thoroughly. This means it will often run for around 10 minutes before shutting off and then stay off for about 10 minutes.

Does keeping the AC at 72 save money?

Best AC Temperature Settings While You Are Home

As you consider the most comfortable room temperature for your lifestyle and family, keep in mind that for each degree that you set your thermostat above 72 degrees, you can save up to 3% on your energy bill.

How do I know if my AC is running too much?

7 Signs You're Overworking Your Air Conditioner
  • Shocking Increases in Your Energy Bills. ...
  • Your Air Conditioner Struggles to Cool Your Home. ...
  • Your Home is Uncomfortably Humid. ...
  • You Are Wearing Out Your Thermostat Buttons. ...
  • Your House has Warm and Cool Spots. ...
  • You Hear Strange Noises. ...
  • Your HVAC System Leaks.

How long should it take to cool a house from 90 to 72?

Cooling a house from 90 degrees to 72 degrees typically takes about 2 to 4 hours, depending on various factors.

Can you overuse an AC?

The short answer is, yes, HVAC overuse is possible and can occur. Running your AC around the clock is going to quickly increase your energy costs and your unit may also experience plenty of damage. Although it may be hot where you live all day long, you need to give your unit a rest so you can avoid it overheating.

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