Is it cheaper to run air conditioner nonstop than letting it cool every night?

Running an air conditioner nonstop can be cheaper in certain situations, especially if it maintains a consistent temperature, as it avoids the energy spikes associated with cooling a warm space from scratch every time. However, continuously running the unit can lead to higher energy bills compared to allowing it to cool down during cooler nights. Additionally, energy efficiency varies by system and local energy rates, so it's essential to consider these factors when making a decision. Overall, it's often more cost-effective to use a programmable thermostat to optimize cooling based on time of day and usage patterns.