The consumption of electricity when switching on and off an air conditioner depends on various factors, including the type and efficiency of the air conditioner, the ambient temperature, and how frequently you turn it on and off.
When you first switch on an air conditioner, it draws a higher amount of electricity as it needs to power the compressor and fans to reach the desired temperature. This initial surge in electricity consumption is known as the "starting" or "inrush" current. However, this spike in electricity use typically lasts for a very short duration, often just a few seconds.
Once the air conditioner reaches the set temperature and maintains it, the electricity consumption stabilizes at a lower level to keep the room cool. During this period, the air conditioner's power consumption will be relatively consistent.
If you frequently switch the air conditioner on and off in short intervals, it could lead to a higher overall energy consumption. This is because the air conditioner has to go through the starting process repeatedly, and the frequent starting and stopping can be less efficient than letting it run continuously at a steady state.
In contrast, if you turn off the air conditioner when it's not needed for an extended period (e.g., when leaving the house), you will save more energy than continuously running it when not necessary.
The best approach to minimize electricity consumption while using an air conditioner is to find a comfortable temperature setting and avoid frequent, unnecessary switching on and off. Additionally, using energy-efficient air conditioners and ensuring proper insulation and sealing in your home can help reduce overall energy usage.