Do you ever find yourself adjusting the thermostat several times a day, trying to stay comfortable? You are not alone, especially here in Scottsdale, where temperatures can swing fast from morning to afternoon.
But did you know that constantly changing your thermostat setting can actually hurt your AC system?
Let’s talk about why your air conditioner prefers consistency and what happens when it does not get it.
Short Cycling Puts Stress On Your System
When you change the thermostat up and down throughout the day, your AC may start short-cycling. That means it turns on and off repeatedly instead of running steady cycles. Every time the system starts, the compressor works the hardest. Frequent restarts create extra heat and stress inside the unit.
Over time, this wear can lead to early breakdowns, especially during Scottsdale’s long summer months when systems are already under heavy demand.
Humidity Control Suffers More Than You Think
Many homeowners focus only on temperature, but humidity matters too. Your AC needs time to remove moisture from the air. If the system shuts off too quickly because of constant thermostat changes, it never reaches full moisture removal mode.
The result? A home that feels sticky or clammy even when the temperature looks right. This is common in homes that constantly adjust the thermostat instead of letting the system run naturally.
Energy Bills Can Climb Quietly
Here is a surprise for many homeowners. AC systems use the most energy during startup. If you keep changing the setpoint, your system stays in that high-energy startup phase longer than it should.
That can increase cooling costs by a noticeable amount over the month. In a city like Scottsdale, where cooling costs already make up a big part of summer bills, this adds up fast.
Modern Systems Need Stable Settings
Newer AC systems use advanced controls and variable speeds to run efficiently. Frequent manual changes confuse these systems. Instead of smoothly adjusting output, they may run harder than needed just to catch up.
That means less comfort and more strain on components designed to last for years.
What Is The Best Way To Set Your Thermostat?
Set a comfortable temperature and let your system do its job. Use schedules or smart thermostat features that adjust temperatures gradually. Avoid large temperature swings during the day. Ceiling fans and window coverings can help with comfort without touching the thermostat.
Let A Local Expert Help You Stay Comfortable
Living in Scottsdale means your AC works harder than in most places. Scottsdale Air Heating & Cooling understands the local climate and how to protect your system from unnecessary stress.
If your AC struggles, cycles often, or your home never feels quite right, our team is ready to help. Schedule a service visit today and enjoy smoother comfort all summer long.
