Top 5 Air Conditioner Efficiency Tips for Lower Energy Bills
It's no surprise that energy bills often skyrocket during the summer. When it comes to your air conditioning unit though, there's no need to sacrifice comfort in order to save. Simple air conditioner efficiency tips can make a big difference, so your air con works smarter rather than harder.
No matter what type of air conditioning system you have, improving air conditioning efficiency will certainly help to reduce power bills while keeping your home cool. From setting the right temperature to reducing heat with easy solutions, these tips will have your air con running all summer long.
When it comes to air conditioners, we’re here to help you start saving energy and enjoying maximum comfort – all without the worry of rising electricity costs.
1. Set the Right Temperature for Maximum Efficiency
The first of our air conditioner efficiency tips is all about finding the ideal temperature indoors.
Setting the right temperature for your air conditioner is key to balancing comfort and saving energy. In a perfect world, the ideal room temperature is around 22°C. But if you’re conscious about your energy expenses, experts recommend setting your air con to 24-27°C in summer. This will keep your home cool without overloading the system or blowing out your electricity bill. Every degree lower will increase power consumption by up to 10% so keeping it within this range will save energy.
One way to make this even easier is with a smart thermostat. They can adjust the indoor temperature based either on the outside temperature or your schedule. This simple change will help you to save money on cooling costs; you’ll be able to run your air conditioning efficiently and guilt-free all day!
2. Use Ceiling Fans to Increase Air Flow
Air conditioners work surprisingly well in conjunction with ceiling fans. Even with a cheap air conditioner, ceiling fans can help circulate the cool air they produce, and improve the overall energy-efficient capabilities of the system. For reverse-cycle air conditioners, the same applies in winter when you’re looking to heat the room.
Using ceiling fans enables you to set your air conditioner a few degrees higher without sacrificing comfort. This will help to cut down on your energy use and lower your power bill. The fan’s airflow creates a wind chill effect that makes the room feel cooler, so you can enjoy the benefits of a lower temperature without using more power.
For maximum energy efficiency, set your ceiling fan to rotate anticlockwise in summer. This simple trick will give you the most energy-efficient unit possible; your air conditioner will work more efficiently to keep your home comfortable.
3. Clean The Filters Of Your Air Conditioning Unit
Cleaning the air filters is key to maintaining air conditioner efficiency and reducing power consumption. Clogged filters restrict airflow; they make your air conditioner work harder and use more energy in the process.
The best way to prevent this is by regularly checking and cleaning or replacing filters. It’ll allow cool air to flow freely so your home environment will be comfortable. Check filters every month during peak usage, especially in summer when dust and allergens accumulate fast.
Clean filters don’t just help you to save energy; they also improve indoor air quality, reduce allergens and maintain the performance of your air conditioner. This simple task will save energy and extend your unit’s life.
4. Block the Heat with Window Coverings and Gaps
Blocking out heat with window coverings and sealing gaps will make a big difference in how well your air conditioning system cools your home. To keep it comfortable and save energy try these:
- Close curtains or blinds during the hottest part of the day to keep cool air in and hot air out.
- Put up blackout curtains or thermal blinds for better insulation.
- Use weather-stripping around windows and doors to seal air leaks and prevent warm air from getting in.
- Keep doors and windows closed when your air conditioner is running to maintain temperature.
These simple tips will reduce cooling costs and improve AC efficiency without compromising on comfort.
5. Schedule Regular Maintenance with a Licensed Air Con Technician
Scheduling regular maintenance with a licensed air con technician is essential to enjoying a functional and efficient air conditioning system.
Professional, preventative maintenance goes a long way towards identifying and fixing minor issues before they become big problems. An air con technician will perform several tasks to make sure your system keeps performing at its best, including:
- examining the condenser unit
- replacing refrigerant gases if needed
- monitoring the overall condition of the system
Regular servicing will also prevent overloading the system which will reduce energy usage and your electricity bill. An air conditioning system that enjoys consistent maintenance will give you peace of mind and cool air all summer.
BONUS! Keep the Outdoor Unit Clear of Debris
Clearing the outdoor unit of debris is key to maintaining air conditioner efficiency and having the system running smoothly.
Leaves, dirt and other debris can block the airflow around the condenser unit, which makes your AC system work harder and use more energy. Check the area around the outdoor unit regularly and clear away any leaves, grass or branches that may have accumulated. Trim back nearby plants to allow airflow and avoid blocking the unit.
This simple task will prevent overloading the system and improve energy efficiency. The ultimate result is that it lowers your electricity bill while you still enjoy climate-controlled comfort.
Stay Cool and Save Money All Summer Long
Try these air conditioner efficiency tips and see just how they positively impact your home’s comfort and electricity bills.
Simple tasks like cleaning filters, blocking heat and clearing the outdoor unit of debris will make your air conditioner more energy-efficient in the long run. Using ceiling fans and scheduling regular maintenance with a licensed technician will further improve energy efficiency. Follow these and you’ll save energy, reduce cooling costs and extend your air con’s life.
Please note: Thanks for reading our blog “Top 5 Air Conditioner Efficiency Tips for Lower Energy Bills”. This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See After Hours Air Conditioning’s Terms & Conditions here.