Yes, it is generally recommended to turn off the air conditioning (AC) when you are out of town for an extended period. Turning off the AC while you're away can have several benefits:
Energy Savings: One of the most significant advantages of turning off the AC is that it helps save energy and reduces your utility bills. Running an AC unit continuously when nobody is at home can lead to unnecessary energy consumption and higher costs.
Extended Equipment Life: Giving your AC unit a break during your absence can help prolong its lifespan. Continuous operation can put stress on the system and its components, leading to potential wear and tear. By turning it off, you reduce the strain on the equipment, helping it last longer.
Reduced Risk of Malfunctions: When you turn off the AC, you lower the risk of any unexpected malfunctions or breakdowns that might occur in your absence. This can help you avoid coming back to a home with a malfunctioning AC unit.
Environmental Impact: By conserving energy, you contribute to a lower environmental impact. Less energy consumption means reduced greenhouse gas emissions and a smaller carbon footprint.
Security Concerns: Running the AC when you're away can sometimes give the appearance that someone is home, as some people associate the noise of an AC with an occupied house. However, this should not be the primary reason to keep the AC running, as it may not be a sufficient deterrent for potential intruders.
While turning off the AC is generally advisable during extended absences, there are some considerations to keep in mind:
Humidity: If you live in a humid climate, turning off the AC for an extended period could lead to increased indoor humidity levels, which might promote mold growth. In such cases, consider setting the thermostat to a higher temperature or using a dehumidifier to maintain a more controlled environment.
Pets and Indoor Plants: If you have pets or indoor plants, extreme temperatures can have adverse effects on them. In such cases, you may want to leave the AC on, but set it to a higher temperature to keep the indoor environment comfortable for them.
Smart Thermostats: If you have a smart thermostat, you can remotely control your AC and adjust the temperature as needed while you're away. Some smart thermostats even have vacation modes specifically designed for such situations.
In conclusion, unless there are specific reasons to keep the AC running, it is generally more cost-effective and beneficial to turn it off when you're out of town for an extended period. If you have concerns about humidity, pets, or plants, consider adjusting the thermostat settings accordingly or using a smart thermostat to manage the temperature remotely.