Air conditioners can be used continuously and regularly without any damage or error. The built-in feature of the air conditioner allows it to run 24/7 without any damage or issue. But some external factors determine how long you can run a portable air conditioner continuously.
These factors are as follows:
How Long Can You Run A Portable Air Conditioner Continuously?
1. Installation:
The air conditioner should be installed properly in a place where it has no direct contact with sunlight and the humidity and temperature do not overheat the system of the unit. It should be installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Cooling Capacity:
The cooling capacity of an air conditioner can be measured in the British Thermals Unit (BTU).
The cooling capacity increases if the BTU rates get higher.
The air conditioners that have more BTU rates cool down the room more quickly but their operating capacity is less.
3. Energy Efficiency:
Energy efficiency is rated by EER which measures the cooling power which a unit provides according to the used amount of energy. High energy-efficient units run for longer periods.
4. Room Temperature:
The operating capacity of the unit depends on the room temperature of the area where the air conditioner is placed. If the temperature of the room is high and the level of humidity is also high, the air conditioner needs to work hard to vent the hot air and generate cooling in the room. It will decrease the operating capacity of the air conditioner.
5. Room Size:
The size of the room affects the cooling capacity of the air conditioner. If the room size is, there is more space, and the air conditioner needs to work harder to generate cooling and it takes more time.
It affects the operating capacity of the unit. If the size of the room is small, the air conditioner uses its energy efficient feature and generates cooling quickly and it does not harm the operating capacity.
6. Maintenance:
Cleaning the air conditioner properly and maintaining its components by draining water on time, and cleaning the filter will help in increasing the operating capacity of an air conditioner.
Is it Ok to Run a Portable Air Conditioner Continuously?
Air conditioners can be used continuously if the unit is maintained properly and the operating capacity is not affected by any of the external factors such as energy efficiency, wear and tear, and room temperature.
There are some negative impacts of using air conditioners continuously such as an increase in electricity bills as running for long periods consumes more energy.
It can also cause wear and tear on the motors of fans, compressors, thermostats, and other parts.
To prolong the lifespan of an air conditioner, do not keep it turned on without any requirement. Regularly clean and maintain the unit by following the manufacturer’s instructions.
It is not ideal to always use the air conditioner continuously. It will increase your electricity bills.
Due to overwork the system can collapse or face any error. Some air conditioners have built-in capacity to operate all day long so it is normal for many air conditioners to run 24/7.
Only if it is not affected by external factors.
Conclusion
Air conditioners can be used 24/7 but the duration of their usage depends on several factors such as installation, cooling capacity, energy efficiency, and room temperature and maintenance.
Using an air conditioner with a damaged operating unit can cause wear and tear and negatively affect its lifespan.
