How Many Hours Per Day Should Your AC Run in Bannockburn?

Have you ever looked at your energy bill during the summer and wondered, “Is my air conditioner running too much?” Knowing how long your AC should run can help you save money, improve comfort, and extend the lifespan of your system. This is especially important for air conditioning repair in Bannockburn, because hot and humid summers can put your cooling system to the test.

In this post, Ravinia Plumbing, Sewer, Heating & Electric explains how many hours per day your AC should run in Bannockburn, how local climate and electric rates play a role, and what factors can help (or hurt) your bottom line.

Bannockburn’s Summer Climate: What It Means for Your AC

Summers in Bannockburn, IL, can be hot, humid, and occasionally oppressive. Average high temperatures in July, the hottest month, hover around 84°F, but heatwaves can push temperatures into the 90s. With humidity levels frequently above 70%, the heat index—how hot it feels—can soar even higher.

This type of climate means AC units and heat pumps are working hard to both cool the home’s air and remove moisture from the air for better indoor air quality. On a typical summer day in Bannockburn, a properly sized and well-maintained central AC system might run for 8 to 12 hours per day. During particularly hot stretches, it may run up to 15-16 hours. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, as long as the HVAC system is cycling properly and maintaining your desired indoor temperature.

AC Runtime vs. Electric Rates in Bannockburn

Of course, all that runtime comes with a cost. Residential electricity rates can fluctuate seasonally, but in summer months, usage typically spikes due to air conditioning.

If your system is older, inefficient, or not properly maintained, you could be overpaying by hundreds of dollars per year. That’s why it’s crucial to understand how many hours your system should run and whether that level of usage is normal based on your setup and the age of your equipment.

Energy Efficiency of Air Conditioning in Bannockburn

Not all air conditioners are created equal. A major factor in how many hours your AC needs to run per day and how much electricity it uses is the efficiency of your system. This is usually measured by a unit’s SEER rating (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio).

Old vs. New Units

Older AC units (10+ years) often have SEER ratings between 8 and 13.
New, advanced systems typically have SEER ratings between 14 and 20+, with ENERGY STAR models exceeding 16.

A high-efficiency unit can cool your home faster and with less electricity, reducing how long it needs to run to reach your desired temperature. For example, a newer unit might only run 6–8 hours to maintain 72°F on an 85°F day, while an older one might chug along for 12+ hours and still struggle.

If you’re relying on an older system for air conditioning in Bannockburn, it might be time to consider an upgrade, especially if your current unit runs all day and still can’t keep up.

What’s the Ideal Thermostat Setting?

Your thermostat plays a crucial role in determining how long both heating and AC systems run each day. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78°F when you’re home and awake during the summer. For each degree you lower your thermostat, your AC has to work harder and run longer to cool your living space.

For Bannockburn residents working outside the home, set your thermostat higher when you’re away and use a smart thermostat to lower the temp before you return. This simple strategy can significantly reduce daily runtime and energy costs without sacrificing comfort.

Other Factors Affecting AC Runtime

Several factors influence how much your air conditioning in Bannockburn runs each day:

1. Home Insulation & Sealing

If your home isn’t well-insulated, cooled air escapes quickly, making your system work longer and harder to keep the temperature steady. Poorly sealed windows, attic leaks, and under-insulated walls can all cause excess AC runtime.

2. System Size and Capacity

An oversized system will short-cycle (turn on and off frequently), while an undersized one will run continuously without adequately cooling your space. Either way, it’s inefficient and can lead to premature wear.

3. Ductwork and Airflow

Leaky or unbalanced ductwork can reduce airflow and cooling efficiency, causing the AC to run longer. Professional service from Ravinia Plumbing’s experienced technicians can identify and correct airflow issues.

4. Humidity Levels

Air conditioning doesn’t just lower the temperature—it removes moisture, too. Bannockburn’s high summer humidity means your AC works double duty. If your AC runs constantly but the air still feels sticky, it may not be dehumidifying effectively. Ravinia Plumbing has indoor air quality solutions that can work with your air conditioner to remove excess moisture.

When to Be Concerned

It’s normal for your AC to run longer on the hottest days, especially in the late afternoon when the sun is at its peak. But if you notice any of the following, it may be time to schedule service in Bannockburn, IL:

AC runs constantly, even when temperatures are mild
Your home never reaches the temperature set on the thermostat
Sudden spikes in your electric bill
Inconsistent cooling between rooms

These symptoms may indicate low refrigerant, dirty coils, a failing compressor, or a poorly sized system, all of which can be fixed with professional help. If you’re experiencing consistent warmth instead of cool relief, don’t wait to give us a call!

How Ravinia Plumbing Can Help

Ravinia Plumbing has been a trusted name in Bannockburn, IL, heating and air conditioning for years. Our experienced HVAC technicians can:

Evaluate whether your AC’s runtime is normal for your home and climate
Perform maintenance tune ups to improve efficiency and shorten runtime
Recommend energy-saving thermostat settings and home insulation upgrades
Help you replace an aging or undersized AC unit with a high-efficiency model tailored to your space and budget

Whether you need an emergency repair, a seasonal checkup, or a full system upgrade, our team is ready to help you stay cool without breaking the bank.

Is Your AC Working Overtime This Summer?

There’s no single “magic number” for how many hours per day your air conditioner should run in your Bannockburn home. Factors like weather, home size, insulation, thermostat settings, and system efficiency all play a role. That said, if your unit runs for more than 12–16 hours per day during mild weather, it may be time to investigate.

By improving efficiency, adjusting your thermostat, and partnering with a trusted HVAC expert like Ravinia Plumbing, you can make sure your system runs just the right amount to keep your home comfortable and your utility bills manageable. And, we’re here to help keep you comfortable throughout the year, with home services ranging from furnace installation to air purifiers that help you breathe easier, sump pumps, and hot water heater installation!