For homeowners relying on air conditioning in Mundelein, it’s common to question what’s “normal” when it comes to daily runtime—especially when your utility bills start climbing in the summer. The truth is, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. The number of hours your AC runs each day depends on factors like local climate, home insulation, system efficiency, and thermostat settings.
In this blog, Ravinia Plumbing, Sewer, Heating & Electric takes a closer look at what’s typical for air conditioning in Mundelein, how weather and humidity influence runtime, and tips to reduce AC usage and still stay comfortable.
Summer Temperatures in Mundelein, IL
Mundelein, IL, located in Lake County, sees average summer temperatures hover around 70°F. However, it’s common to see days climb into the low to mid-80s, especially in July and August. Compared to nearby Chicago, Mundelein tends to have cooler average temperatures but doesn’t benefit from the cooling effects of breezes coming off Lake Michigan.
On average, an AC unit in Mundelein may run between 8 to 14 hours per day during July and August, depending on the day’s conditions and how well your home retains cool air. That might sound like a lot—but it’s often necessary to maintain indoor comfort during muggy, sun-drenched afternoons.
How Humidity Affects Your AC’s Workload
Humidity is one of the most overlooked contributors to AC runtime. When there’s more moisture in the air, your air conditioner has to work harder—not just to cool your home, but to remove excess humidity. This dehumidification process takes time and energy.
For air conditioning in Mundelein, this means longer daily cycles compared to homes in drier climates. For example, someone in Denver or Salt Lake City might use their AC for shorter durations, even at similar temperatures, because lower humidity makes it easier to stay comfortable.
When the air inside your home is too humid, you’ll likely notice symptoms like:
- Sticky or clammy skin
- Foggy windows
- A persistent feeling of warmth even with the AC running
This often prompts homeowners to lower the thermostat further, causing the AC to run even longer.
What Does All That Runtime Mean for Your Electric Bill?
The more hours you run your air conditioning in Mundelein each day, the more energy it consumes—and that can have a noticeable effect on your monthly utility bill. During peak summer months in Mundelein, when your AC may be running for several hours a day to combat heat and humidity, it’s common to see a spike in electricity usage.
Is Your AC Running Too Much?
While 8 to 14 hours of runtime might be typical during July or August, anything above that—especially if temperatures are moderate—could be a sign of inefficiency. Here are a few warning signs that your air conditioning in Mundelein may be overworked:
- The system runs continuously but never reaches the set temperature
- Certain rooms remain warm even when others are cool
- Your monthly energy bills are unusually high for the season
- The AC turns on and off frequently (short cycling)
If any of these sound familiar, your unit might be due for a tune up, malfunctioning components may need to be fixed with an air conditioning repair, or your home may need efficiency upgrades.
Ways to Reduce AC Runtime Without Sacrificing Comfort
Reducing the number of hours your air conditioning in Mundelein runs each day doesn’t mean suffering through the heat. It’s about making smart upgrades and tweaks to ensure your system runs efficiently. Here’s what you can do:
1. Install a Smart Thermostat
Smart thermostats adjust heating and cooling systems based on your schedule, habits, and even outdoor humidity levels. By preventing your system from running unnecessarily, they can cut runtime by several hours per week and reduce energy consumption by up to 10%.
2. Improve Your Insulation and Sealing
Poor insulation and air leaks allow cool air to escape and warm, humid air to enter, which is especially common in older Mundelein residential dwellings. Sealing gaps in doors, windows, and attic spaces can help your air conditioner work less while maintaining a consistent temperature.
3. Schedule Seasonal Maintenance
Annual AC tune ups ensure your system is running at peak performance. During a maintenance visit, HVAC technicians will clean coils, check refrigerant levels, and test components—making your unit more efficient and reducing the hours it needs to run. Also, don’t forget to schedule heating services to maintain your furnace or boiler in the fall!
4. Use Ceiling Fans Strategically
Ceiling fans don’t lower air temperature, but they circulate cool air and create a wind-chill effect. This allows you to raise your thermostat by a few degrees without feeling warmer—meaning your AC runs less.
5. Upgrade to a High-Efficiency Unit
If your system is over 10-15 years old, it may be using far more electricity than necessary. New ENERGY STAR-certified units use up to 30% less energy than older models. If you’re investing in new air conditioning in Mundelein, make sure it’s properly sized for your home. Bigger isn’t always better.
6. Keep Curtains and Blinds Closed
Solar heat gain from windows can raise your indoor temperature quickly. Blocking sunlight during the hottest part of the day can reduce the load on your AC, allowing it to cycle less frequently.
What’s Normal for You Might Not Be for Your Neighbor
When it comes to how many hours per day your air conditioner should run, every home is different, even among neighbors living on the same street in Mundelein. That’s because cooling needs vary greatly depending on your personal preferences, home design, and daily habits.
Some homeowners prefer to keep their thermostat set at a crisp 68°F all day long, while others are perfectly comfortable at 74°F with ceiling fans running. A family with large south-facing windows and active kids at home all day may need longer cooling cycles than a retired couple who keep blinds drawn and limit heat-producing appliances.
Even small details like how often doors are opened, how many people are in the house, or whether the oven is used regularly can affect how long your AC needs to run to keep you comfortable.
So instead of comparing your AC’s runtime to someone else’s, it’s more helpful to focus on how well your system meets your comfort expectations without constantly running or spiking your energy usage. If it feels like your unit is working harder than it should—or not keeping up—it might be time for a tune-up or energy efficiency evaluation.
Need Help Managing Your Air Conditioning in Mundelein?
The good news? With the right strategies, you can reduce daily runtime and still stay comfortable. Whether it’s installing a smart thermostat, improving insulation, or scheduling professional maintenance, small upgrades make a big difference.
If you’re concerned about your energy bills or think your system is working overtime, reach out to the HVAC experts at Ravinia Plumbing. We’ve been helping Mundelein homeowners optimize their comfort for decades—and we can help you too.