{"id":6845,"date":"2026-06-12T12:31:57","date_gmt":"2026-06-12T12:31:57","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sandiegorelocationnews.com\/index.php\/2026\/06\/12\/is-it-better-to-leave-my-ac-on-when-im-not-home-how-to-save-in-california-heat\/"},"modified":"2026-06-12T12:31:57","modified_gmt":"2026-06-12T12:31:57","slug":"is-it-better-to-leave-my-ac-on-when-im-not-home-how-to-save-in-california-heat","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/sandiegorelocationnews.com\/index.php\/2026\/06\/12\/is-it-better-to-leave-my-ac-on-when-im-not-home-how-to-save-in-california-heat\/","title":{"rendered":"Is it better to leave my AC on when I\u2019m not home? How to save in California heat"},"content":{"rendered":"
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As parts of California prepare to swelter under a triple-digit heat wave, statewide forecasts predict a hotter-than-usual summer this year.<\/p>\n

Read more After walk-off slam, Giants\u2019 Eldridge says he wants to be \u2018face of this franchise\u2019<\/a><\/p>\n

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Temperatures are expected to climb well above 100 degrees across portions of Northern California and the Central Valley this week, with Sacramento forecast to reach as high as 102 degrees.<\/p>\n

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\u201cWarmer temperatures could lead to increased electricity usage as customers often increase electricity usage to cool their homes,\u201d Pacific Gas and Electric Co. wrote in a statement to The Sacramento Bee.<\/p>\n

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This \u201ccould increase their electric bills compared to other times of the year,\u201d PG&E said.<\/p>\n

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Is it cheaper to leave your air conditioner running while you\u2019re away from home?<\/p>\n

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Here\u2019s what energy experts said can help you save money during the California heat:<\/p>\n

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BEHIND THE STORY <\/h3>\n

MORE <\/p>\n

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Why we did this story<\/h3>\n
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Our community-driven series \u2014 How to California \u2014 is here to answer your questions about state laws, history, culture, recreation and travel in the Golden State. <\/p>\n

McClatchy\u2019s service journalism team, focused on helping our readers navigate daily life, works in communities across the state, including San Luis Obispo, Fresno, Merced, Modesto and Sacramento. <\/p>\n

Ask us your questions \u2014 big and small \u2014 by emailing howtocalifornia@mcclatchy.com or filling out a form here. <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

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Should I keep AC running while away from home in California?<\/h2>\n

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According to PG&E, it\u2019s better to turn off your AC unit if you’ll be gone for an extended period of time.<\/p>\n

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\u201cPG&E recommends setting your AC higher or off when you\u2019re away, rather than running it all day,\u201d the utility company said on its website.<\/p>\n

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If you have a smart thermostat, you can schedule your AC to switch on about half an hour before you return to pre-cool your home.<\/p>\n

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\u201cConsider using a programmable or smart thermostat, which lets you cool (or heat) your home when energy demand is lower and costs are typically reduced,\u201d PG&E said.<\/p>\n

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According to PG&E, smart thermostats can save the average California customer between $50 and $78 per year.<\/p>\n

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What if I\u2019m only leaving the house for a few hours?<\/h2>\n

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Turning the AC off completely might not be the most efficient option if you need to step out for only a few hours.<\/p>\n

Read more California releases $50M to address transnational Tijuana River sewage crisis<\/a><\/p>\n

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The Sacramento Municipal Utility District recommends raising the thermostat by 5 to 8 degrees when you\u2019ll be away for less than four hours.<\/p>\n

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\u201cYou\u2019ll save around 5% to 10% on cooling costs for every two degrees you raise the temperature,\u201d SMUD said.<\/p>\n

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What is the best thermostat setting to save money, energy?<\/h2>\n

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Setting your thermostat to 78 degrees during hot weather can help reduce cooling costs while keeping your home comfortable.<\/p>\n

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According to the U.S. Department of Energy, homeowners can save up to 10% a year on cooling costs by adjusting their thermostat 7 to 10 degrees from its normal setting for about eight hours a day.<\/p>\n

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When should I limit electricity use?<\/h2>\n

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In addition to adjusting the thermostat, energy experts recommend reducing electricity use during peak-demand hours, when rates are often highest.<\/p>\n

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\u201cElectricity use is highest in the late afternoon and evening,\u201d PG&E said.<\/p>\n

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Both PG&E and SMUD said customers should limit energy use between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. through Sept. 30, when summer rates are in effect.<\/p>\n

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Do shades and curtains actually keep homes cool?<\/h2>\n

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Blocking direct sunlight into your home can also help reduce cooling costs.<\/p>\n

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Closing blinds, shades and curtains during the hottest part of the day can keep indoor temperatures lower and reduce the strain on your air conditioner, according to SMUD.<\/p>\n

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\u201cSunlight passing through windows heats your home and makes your air conditioner work harder,\u201d PG&E said.<\/p>\n

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How can I keep my home cool while saving on costs?<\/h2>\n

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According to the U.S. Department of Energy, other include:<\/p>\n

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