How Many Hours Should Your AC Run Per Day?

Professional Services
February 25, 2022

Your AC unit is a vital household appliance, especially during those hot summer months. But many property owners wonder, “How many hours should your AC run per day?”


The truth is that your AC unit can be "on" for long periods. Cooling a building requires the AC unit to run throughout the day to keep your home or commercial space at a comfortable temperature all day and night. It's normal for an AC to run for multiple hours per day.


However, there is a difference between keeping your AC on throughout the day and the compressor running all day. Once your space reaches your desired temperature, your AC system, or more specifically, the compressor, should stop running automatically. If your air conditioning system is running its cycles too frequently or for unusually long periods, it could mean that it needs repair.


If you're experiencing shortages or issues with your AC unit, call on our team of experts today! Get professional heating and cooling in Sheboygan from Professional Services to ensure your AC runs properly.


Air Conditioner Compressor Issues

The compressor in your air conditioning unit goes on and off as your AC unit goes through cooling cycles to reach your desired temperature. The compressor is the part of your AC system that makes hot air cool. But sometimes, the compressor will develop cycling issues, which can affect how many hours your AC runs per day.


AC Cycling Issues and Run Times

When your AC compressor runs, it means that it is going through a cooling cycle to cool enough air to keep your space at an optimum temperature. If you notice that your AC system is cycling for short periods, one right after another, it could mean the system has a problem. In this case, you should contact a professional HVAC service.


Your AC unit should run its cycles for about 15 to 20 minutes, no more than a couple of times within an hour. If your AC is running for long cycles, it could also indicate a problem. Any AC system failure left unsolved could mean a costly repair and a hefty electricity bill.


Factors That Impact Compressor Performance

Many factors can affect the performance of your AC compressor. Some are common and unremarkable, while others mean more significant issues that you shouldn’t ignore. Whatever the reason, a compressor overworked for an extended period can lead to severe issues.


Higher-Than-Normal Outdoor Temperatures

When the sun is high in the sky and the temperature gauge goes up, your AC unit has to work even harder to cool your space. Your compressor will have to run more frequently to reach your desired temperature on days like this.


It's a simple issue of putting a more significant load on a compressor because of the low indoor temperature versus the high outdoor temperature. This is especially true if the compressor is already in need of cleaning or maintenance.


Air Conditioner Size vs. Room Size

If your air conditioner is too small to cool the size of your room correctly, it could cause issues for the compressor. When you run an undersized AC unit, the compressor has no rest time. It will continue to run without turning off because it's unable to reach your desired room temperature.


It's much easier to assess a sizing issue with a window AC unit versus a central AC system.


Thermostat Setting Issues

The main issue that will cause a compressor to run too much is that it's trying and failing to reach the desired temperature. So, if your compressor is cycling too often or running longer-than-usual cycles, make sure to check the setting of your thermostat.


If the temperature was accidentally set lower than you intended, try changing it and see what happens to the compressor’s performance. Even if it’s at your intended temperature, you could consider experimenting with a slightly higher temperature and see if you still find it comfortable.


Tips for Running Your Air Conditioning System

Like any major appliance, the better care you take of your air conditioner, the longer it will last.


Avoid high electricity bills and quick degradation of your AC system by paying attention to the issues above and calling on a professional when you do encounter issues. But use the following simple tips to keep your air conditioning system in tip-top shape for longer.


Only Run Your AC When Needed

As previously stated, an AC that's switched on doesn't necessarily mean the compressor is running. Your AC is running when you hear and feel it pumping cool air into your space.


To maximize efficiency and longevity, only run your AC system when your home reaches a temperature above your desired comfort level. One effective way to manage this is to turn off the AC when not home, or set it to a higher temperature during periods when you're away. This approach will not only keep your AC functioning better for longer but also help you avoid costly electricity bills. Many modern AC systems allow you to program different temperatures for different times of the day based on your habits, such as times when you’re typically out of the house. This ensures your home remains comfortable when needed while saving energy and reducing wear on your system.


Keep up with AC Services and Maintenance

Don't ignore a faulty air conditioning system. Call on professionals like our team at Professional Services to provide quick and easy maintenance services for your AC system. Our team can identify and remedy minor fixes like a clogged filter or dirty coils that can go unnoticed and cause severe damage over time.


AC compressors are typically placed outside the home, so they accumulate damage from dirt and dust quicker than an indoor appliance. This means they need to be cleaned and maintained more often as well.


You can trust our professional team to keep your heating and cooling systems working. We provide transparent and thorough services to extend the lifespan of your appliances. The experts at Professional Services offer top-quality HVAC inspection and maintenance services from repair to installation.


If you're concerned about how many hours your AC should run per day or are experiencing any of the issues mentioned above, give us a call! Our team of professionals are expert air conditioning and  furnace installation technicians. 

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