It’s starting to get warm out there again as Spring is in full-effect and Summer is going to be coming quick. If you’re anything like me, then you know how uncomfortable it can be when you’re hot in your own home. I hate being hot, so I love air conditioning. I consider it one of the greatest inventions around, just due to how much I hate being hot. As someone who is relatively frugal, I’m always torn between blasting the AC on high and enjoying those frosty temperatures or saving money. Typically, I push toward saving money. The good thing is you can save money and use your AC if you just plan a little and use some technology. The majority of homeowners likely wonder whether it is better to turn off the AC while away or keeping it on all day. We certainly want to stretch every dollar, and we want the most efficient way of running things. But you also probably don’t want to die during the blistering heat of summer − which begs the question if turning the system off is worth the agony.

But some people believe that leaving an air conditioner at all times − even while away − is the better path towards smaller energy bills. I was lucky enough to have a HVAC technician help answer this question for me. replace a central air conditioning unitJason is a long-time HVAC tech who understands how air conditioners work and the answer to this constant question: “Should I turn off my AC while I’m away to save money?” gas furnace ac unitJason is going to take it from here! recovery air handling unitBeing an HVAC technician for about 23 years, I’ve learned a good deal of how air conditioners work and how to maximize your indoor climate control efficiency. So, what about the belief that you shouldn’t turn off your air conditioner while away?

The myth: Leaving your air conditioner on all day will help save money in the long run by not having to kick start it each and every time you turn it back on. By keeping your air conditioner on at all times during the day, you’re not using an air conditioner efficiently, because leaving the air on all day (even when you’re not home) results in a higher use of energy. It would seem to be common sense that something that works harder is spending more energy, but this assumption is not an accurate reflection of how air conditioners work.  Fluctuating to accommodate for a constant temperature is far more taxing on an air conditioner than when it’s working at full capacity. Air conditioners work best when they are operating in full gear. Leaving the air conditioner on throughout the day is also more damaging to your system. You’ll see several years added to the life of your system if you use it only when necessary instead of relying on the superstition that constantly running a system is somehow beneficial.

Cut this habit now, and you’ll also notice a difference in your utility bills in no time. Most people don’t realize that by altering the temperature on the thermostat by one degree, your air conditioner is working at a difference of 5% — resulting in you saving or wasting your money in the long run. Pick the temperature that is right for you and your family. The best way to maximize your savings and your comfort level is to purchase a programmable thermostat. It’s one of the first things I purchase when I buy a home (if there isn’t one already present). They pay for themselves quickly and you can enjoy a comfortable house, a well-functioning air conditioner, and a happy family. There are some great ones out there to purchase, but here are a few of the most popular. Check out the Most Popular Programmable Thermostats What is the toll-free number to enroll or to ask questions about Power Manager? The toll-free number to enroll or ask questions is 1-888-463-5022. What are the rewards for participating in Power Manager?

Does the program decrease my electric bill? Typically, the energy usage on your bill remains the same since you are simply shifting your air conditioning usage to a different time of day. However, the amount on your bill will be reduced by the four monthly credits. For tips on how to decrease your summer air conditioning costs and increase your comfort, see our Power Manager Cool Tips. How can I help save the environment and help keep electric costs low? What is peak electric demand? Demand is the amount of electricity needed at any given time. Power usage fluctuates hourly due to weather conditions, business hours of commercial and industrial companies and residential electric usage. When this combined demand is at its highest, it�s called the peak. How does Power Manager work? At what times will my AC be cycled? What happens during a cycling event? How often will my air conditioner be cycled each summer? How long after I sign up will my switch be installed?

Generally, your switch will be installed within 30 to 60 days after you enroll. Do I need to be home for the switch installation? You do not need to be home when your switch is installed. However, if you tell us that you have a locked gate or arrangements are needed for any animals, we will notify you 24 hours in advance of our installation schedule. When will I receive my credits on my Duke Energy bill? You will receive the credits for the months of July, August, September, and October. What months do you install Power Manager devices? We install Power Manager devices all year long. Even though you earn the credits during the summer months, don�t wait until warm weather arrives to have your device installed. Having the device installed in cooler months ensures that your device will be installed and you won�t have to wait to start receiving monthly credits. How do I enroll? To enroll by phone, please call 1-888-463-5022. How do I know if my air conditioner is being cycled?

The temperature in my home is warmer than normal and I am not sure if my air conditioner is working properly. Should I call my air conditioning contractor? If your home seems warmer than you expect, first call 1-800-832-3169 to hear a message on our cycling status. If your air conditioner is being cycled, it is normal for the home to gain a few degrees during the event. After the cycling period ends, your air conditioner may run continuously until your home reaches your thermostat temperature. If you feel your air conditioner is not working properly, please call your local HVAC dealer. What if my heating and air conditioning company's service technician recommends that I have my switch disconnected or removed? Please have the service technician call 1-888-463-5022 before allowing them to proceed. I'm having a new air conditioner or heat pump installed in my house. After the installation is complete, please call 1-888-463-5022 and request to have the Power Manager device reconnected.