Keeping cool in the summer months is a priority for many. There isn’t much worse than being unable to escape the heat, even indoors.
One solution to your temperature-related problems is to purchase a portable air conditioner that keeps you cool whenever and wherever.
But how long can you keep it running?
Most air conditioners, whether portable or stationary, have a cut-off time. You can’t constantly run them all day without risking damage to the unit. Here, we examine the run times for portable air conditioners and how to optimize your use.
How Long Can a Portable Air Conditioner Run Continuously?
Though this answer may come as a surprise, there isn’t any limit to how long you can keep your portable air conditioner running, as long as it’s connected to a power source.
Some systems will have cut-off mechanisms for when the thermometer senses that the room has reached the ideal temperature or for energy-saving purposes.
It isn’t the continuous use that can prove damaging to your portable AC, but the frequency of turning it off and on. The start-up process requires the most energy from the device, whereas continuous use doesn’t drain the system as much.
You can see the impact of the start-up on the system reflected in how many manufacturers’ warranties are structured. Typically, they emphasize how many times the AC unit has started up rather than the hours of continuous use.
With the proper maintenance, you can expect to get around ten years of use out of your portable AC unit.
EcoFlow WAVE 2 Portable Air Conditioner—Cool Air That Lasts
The EcoFlow WAVE 2 from EcoFlow is a next-generation portable air conditioner that offers longer-lasting cool air. This powerful device can keep you cool for up to eight hours on Eco Mode without recharging.
The EcoFlow WAVE 2 couldn’t be easier to use — it doesn’t require installation, and no drainage is required in cooling mode when the humidity is under 70%!
Is It Better to Run the AC Continuously or in Intervals?
You might feel tempted to give your portable AC unit ‘a rest’ now and again so that it doesn’t wear itself out. However, with the above information in mind, it’s better to keep it running continuously to minimize how much it needs to go through an intensive start-up process.
We understand why this might sound unusual, given that other appliances often require some downtime, but AC units operate differently. Repeatedly turning your AC unit off and on will put significant stress on the compressor, ultimately resulting in wear and tear and shortening its lifespan.
The potential damage from interval use is why portable units like the EcoFlow WAVE 2 come with optional cycles. You can alter your runtimes or blast cold air without damaging the system.
Can I Leave my Portable Air Conditioner Running All Day?
In most cases, yes. Not only is continuous use better for the health of your unit, but it won’t cost you any excess energy. Most AC units will automatically turn themselves off once the room is at the desired temperature, but this isn’t the same as shutting the unit down entirely.
If the temperature rises again, your AC unit will spring back to life to adjust to your preferences.
Ordinarily, leaving electrical appliances on all day is a big no-no, both from an environmental and financial perspective.
Air conditioners consume significant electricity, increasing your carbon footprint and utility bills. But there are ways to make air conditioning less environmentally damaging.
The EcoFlow WAVE 2 is one such solution. With the ability to use a solar generator to operate your portable air conditioner, it lets you stay cool using clean energy. It’s great for your wallet and the environment too!
Factors to Consider Before Leaving Your Portable AC Running All Day
Though leaving most portable AC units running all day is perfectly acceptable, here are some factors you should consider:
Your Energy Consumption
If you’re feeling the pinch with your finances, your energy bill is probably one cause for concern. Continuously running your AC unit may prolong its lifespan, but depending on how your portable AC operates, it could prove costly from a financial perspective.
The amount it costs to keep your portable AC unit running for extended periods will vary between brands. Look for energy-saving or solar-powered units like the EcoFlow WAVE 2.
Maintenance Schedule
While your AC may be surprisingly self-regulating, it’s still an electrical device that requires maintenance now and again to stay in peak condition. One reason for this is the amount of dust and impurities in the air your AC will be exposed to constantly. You must regularly clean the filters — preferably once a month at minimum.
As often as possible, try to dust down your unit with a microfiber cloth or similar cleaning tool to reduce the possibility of clogging. Though this may seem like simple housekeeping, a dust build-up can prove hazardous and could prevent your unit from working entirely. Don’t take the risk; tackle that dust head-on!
Your Room Size
The bigger the room you are trying to cool down, the longer it will take to reach your desired temperature. Most portable AC units go through cycles between fifteen and twenty minutes, with rest times in between.
When looking to keep your large spaces cool, be realistic with your expectations. One portable AC unit may be unable to handle a large room alone. You may have to double up or opt for a more powerful device.
Keep Windows and Doors Closed
Leaving windows and doors open during the warmer months can cause your room to become hotter. It allows the cool air your portable AC unit pumps out to escape through the window, replaced by hot air from outdoors. As a result, the hot air circulation effectively ruins any attempt to cool your room via your AC.
To help your device operate satisfactorily and maintain a consistent temperature, keep all windows and doors closed and let your unit get to work.
Your AC Placement
Where you place your unit can significantly affect its efficiency. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight to prevent the AC from getting too hot. Sun exposure will force it to work much harder and may even lead to technical issues further down the road.
Potential Heat Sources
An AC unit’s entire purpose is to cool your room’s temperature to your desired comfort level. This task is significantly more challenging if multiple heat sources exist within the space, effectively fighting against the AC. It can cause the cooling process to take far longer than it needs to and put excessive, undue pressure on your unit.
Any electrical device can release heat into a room. Turn off anything that you aren’t using, no matter how small or insignificant of a device it may be. It all adds up and makes cooling the room that much more difficult. And you’ll save money on your electricity bill!
How Long You Will Be Out of the House
It’s worth reflecting on whether you need the unit to run “all day.” Are we talking about the working day, typically nine to five? Are we talking twelve hours, from eight until eight? Or do you mean from sunrise to sunset?
The amount of time you plan to be out of the house is vital to consider when leaving your AC on continuously. Although continuously running an AC unit is safe, your money unnecessarily flies out the window if you’re not there to enjoy the cool air.
The good news is, with the EcoFlow WAVE 2 Portable AC, you can control your air conditioner via a smartphone app — even when you’re away from home!
Conclusion
You can leave your AC unit running for as long as you like, and yes, you can leave it continuously running. However, you’ll want to consider numerous factors before doing so, including those outlined above and your unit’s unique specifications. Portable AC units can be game changers in hot weather, but only when used appropriately!
For the ultimate portable air conditioner, shop EcoFlow. Our EcoFlow WAVE 2 Portable AC keeps you cool in an eco-friendly way. It offers powerful cooling capabilities, keeping your utility bills and temperature down.
Now that’s a reason to smile — shop EcoFlow for a better way to stay cool.
