Skip to main content
See every side of every news story
Published loading...Updated

Should the air conditioning be turned off when you're out, or left on? It depends, experts say

  • Experts including Elizabeth Hewitt and Patrick Phelan discussed whether to turn off air conditioning when away, focusing on energy savings and comfort.
  • They explained that short absences under 15 minutes do not save energy by turning off AC, but longer periods like a typical eight-hour workday do save energy by shutting it off.
  • Experts recommend raising the thermostat several degrees during absences to balance efficiency and humidity, using smart thermostats for consistent savings around 10 percent, and employing techniques like closing blinds or opening windows at night.
  • Phelan noted that increasing the thermostat by 1°F saves about 3% on cooling costs, and smart thermostats can provide about 10% savings over manual ones.
  • The guidance suggests that saving energy depends on home insulation, climate, and appliance type, with window units less efficient and foam insulation a low-cost way to retain indoor temperature.
Insights by Ground AI
Does this summary seem wrong?

25 Articles

Winnipeg Free PressWinnipeg Free Press
+2 Reposted by 2 other sources
Center

Should the air conditioning be turned off when you're out, or left on? It depends, experts say

Breaking News, Sports, Manitoba, Canada

·Winnipeg, Canada
Read Full Article
Associated Press NewsAssociated Press News
+17 Reposted by 17 other sources
Lean Left

This air conditioning strategy is the sweet spot for saving energy and money, experts say

Some of us have been told it's more energy-efficient and cost-effective to turn off our air conditioning when we leave home for work.

·United States
Read Full Article
Think freely.Subscribe and get full access to Ground NewsSubscriptions start at $9.99/yearSubscribe

Bias Distribution

  • 64% of the sources are Center
64% Center

Factuality 

To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium

Ownership

To view ownership data please Upgrade to Vantage

Associated Press News broke the news in United States on Tuesday, August 26, 2025.
Sources are mostly out of (0)
News
For You
Search
BlindspotLocal