Should you turn off the AC when you leave home? Experts weigh in on energy savings

Contrary to common practice, completely shutting off air conditioners when leaving home for brief periods might not be the most energy-efficient strategy, according to HVAC experts. They suggest that the energy consumed by the system to return to a comfortable temperature after a full shutdown can sometimes outweigh the savings.

Instead of turning the unit off, experts recommend setting the thermostat a few degrees higher in the summer or lower in the winter. Another effective method is to switch the air conditioner to fan mode. This approach allows the system to avoid the significant power draw associated with restarting the compressor, which can consume substantial electricity.

Taiwan Power Company (Taipower) also offers similar advice for short absences, suggesting that if you plan to be away for less than 30 minutes, it might be better to leave the air conditioner on. They propose adjusting the temperature setting to between 26-28 degrees Celsius and using a fan to improve air circulation and cooling efficiency. However, for extended periods away from home, Taipower still advises turning off the air conditioner to maximize energy savings.