If you’ve ever glanced at your thermostat on a hot summer afternoon and wondered, “Is my air conditioning running too much?” Many homeowners in Libertyville, IL, ask this very question each summer.
Ravinia Plumbing, Sewer, Heating & Electric explains the factors that influence the runtime of your air conditioning in Libertyville, including local weather patterns, electric rates, the age of your system, thermostat settings, and overall system efficiency. Whether you’re concerned about electric bills, AC wear and tear, or indoor comfort, understanding how long your AC should run each day can help you make smarter choices.
Libertyville’s Summer Temperatures and How They Affect Cooling Systems
Libertyville’s summer weather doesn’t stay consistent all season—it fluctuates quite a bit, and those shifts can directly impact how long your AC needs to run each day.
In June, average highs sit around the mid-70s. On these milder days, your air conditioning in Libertyville might only run 4 to 6 hours daily, especially in the mornings and early evenings when temperatures are more comfortable. However, once July and August hit, highs can climb to the mid-80s, and that’s when you may need to run your air conditioning in Libertyville 8 to 12 hours a day, or more on exceptionally hot days.
But it’s not just the temperature that matters—it’s the humidity, too.
Libertyville’s summer humidity can soar, especially after storms or during prolonged heatwaves. High humidity makes the air feel hotter than it is and forces your air conditioner to work overtime. That’s because your system is removing moisture, too. When humidity levels are high, your AC runs longer cycles to maintain comfort, even if the thermostat reading hasn’t changed.
For example:
- On a dry 85°F day, your AC might cool your home in shorter bursts.
- On a humid 78°F day, it could run longer because the air feels sticky and uncomfortable.
Libertyville’s variable temps and sticky air mean your AC runtime can swing widely throughout the season. Tracking both temperature and humidity, and making sure your heating and air conditioning system is well-maintained, will help you stay cool without overworking your unit.
During these warm months, your AC may need to run for several hours a day to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature—especially if your home isn’t well-insulated or your system is outdated.
Libertyville Electric Rates and AC Runtime Costs
Currently, electricity rates in Libertyville average around 14.5 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh), depending on your provider and time-of-use billing. This means that excessive AC runtime can noticeably impact your monthly electric bill.
That’s why it’s so important to balance comfort and efficiency when running your AC. Efficient air conditioning in Libertyville should cool your home steadily and cycle on and off a few times per hour. If it seems like it’s always running, or not running enough, give us a call for air conditioning services and we’ll figure out what’s going on.
New vs. Old Air Conditioners: Efficiency Makes a Difference
One of the biggest factors that affects how long your air conditioning in Libertyville runs each day is the age and condition of your unit.
Older Units:
- May have SEER ratings (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) as low as 8–10.
- Require more energy to do the same job.
- Often struggle to maintain consistent cooling, especially during heat waves.
- Can run longer each day, wasting energy and shortening the lifespan of parts.
Newer Units:
- Today’s units must have a minimum SEER of 14, with high-efficiency systems reaching 18–20+.
- Cool more effectively and shut off sooner after reaching the set temperature.
- Feature variable-speed motors that adjust output based on need rather than running at full blast all the time.
Upgrading to a new unit can significantly reduce daily runtime, lower your electric bills, and improve comfort in Libertyville’s humid summer conditions.
Ideal Thermostat Settings for Libertyville Summers
To get the best balance between comfort and energy savings, the U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78°F when you’re home in the summer.
However, in Libertyville, many residents find this temperature a bit too warm—especially during periods of high humidity. A common compromise is:
- 74°F–76°F when you’re home.
- 78°F–80°F when you’re away.
You can also use a smart thermostat to schedule heating and cooling changes throughout the day. This way, your system isn’t cooling an empty house for hours on end, which reduces daily runtime. Contact us for Libertyville HVAC services and we’ll help you find the right thermostat that will help you save money this summer.
Other Factors That Affect AC Runtime in Libertyville Homes
There’s no one-size-fits-all number when it comes to the right daily AC runtime for homes in Libertyville, IL. Several factors come into play:
1. Home Size and Layout
Larger homes take longer to cool, especially if the ductwork is inefficient or your AC unit is too small for the space.
2. Insulation and Windows
Homes with poor insulation or older single-pane windows lose cool air quickly. As a result, your air conditioning in Libertyville may need to run much longer to maintain desired temperatures.
3. Sun Exposure
Rooms with west-facing windows may heat up quickly in the afternoon sun. Using energy-efficient window coverings can help reduce heat gain.
4. Air Filter Condition
A dirty filter reduces airflow, forcing your AC to work harder and longer. Replacing your air filter every 1–3 months is an easy way to keep your system efficient.
5. System Maintenance
Regular AC tune ups from a Libertyville HVAC professional ensure your system runs at peak performance (and they may be required to uphold your warranty coverage). A neglected system will run longer, cost more, and wear out faster, leading to more AC repair calls and earlier air conditioner replacement.
Signs Your Air Conditioner Is Running Too Much
If your air conditioning in Libertyville seems to be running far more than average, pay attention to these red flags:
- You’re not reaching the set temperature.
- Airflow feels weak or uneven throughout the house.
- Utility bills are climbing every month.
- The system is noisy or frequently turns on and off (short-cycling).
- There’s warm or humid air blowing from vents.
These symptoms often indicate the equipment is straining and may need repairs, maintenance, or replacement service.
How Ravinia Plumbing Can Help
At Ravinia Plumbing, we help Libertyville homeowners get the most from their HVAC systems. Whether you’re trying to reduce your AC runtime, lower energy bills, or improve comfort, we offer:
- AC tune ups and inspections
- System efficiency assessments
- Smart thermostat installation
- Ductwork evaluations
- Energy-efficient system upgrades
Our heating and cooling company knows the unique demands of residential air conditioning in Libertyville, Illinois, and we’re here to help our local customers stay comfortable without overpaying on your electric bill.
And if you’re looking for better comfort from your furnace or boiler come winter, contact our team for heating services—we provide repair service, maintenance, and installations for all types of furnaces and boilers!
Balance Comfort and Efficiency to Stay Cool and Comfortable
There’s no magic number for daily air conditioner runtime, but if your system is running more than 12–15 hours a day when conditions are milder, it’s time to investigate why. With the right settings, maintenance, and possibly an upgrade, you can enjoy a cool home without wasting energy.
Need help evaluating your system’s performance? The allied air conditioning experts at Ravinia Plumbing are ready to assist! Reach out today and find out how to optimize your air conditioning in Libertyville.
