In summer, air conditioning sure is one of the most important (and favourite) appliances in the home. On hot days, there’s nothing better than coming home to a cool, relaxing space after a long day outdoors. However, running your air conditioner constantly can also increase your energy consumption.
The good news is that you don't necessarily need to sacrifice comfort to improve efficiency. A few changes to how you use and maintain your air conditioning can help your system work more effectively, reduce unnecessary energy use and keep your home comfortable throughout summer.
Here are our 10 practical tips to get the most out of your air conditioner this summer.
1. Set a comfortable temperature
One of the easiest ways to improve air conditioning efficiency is to avoid setting the temperature really low. Aim for a comfortable temperature around 24–26°C.
Every degree lower can require your air conditioner to work harder, particularly during periods of extreme heat. Setting a reasonable temperature can help reduce energy consumption while still keeping your home comfortable and cool.
2. Keep doors and windows closed
Once your air conditioner is running, keep external doors and windows closed. Warm outdoor air entering the room makes your air conditioner work harder to maintain the desired temperature.
If you have a split system operating in one room, closing internal doors can also help contain the cool air and prevent you from unnecessarily cooling areas of the house that aren't being used.
3. Use your air conditioner at the right time
Don't wait until your home is extremely hot before switching on the air conditioner. On particularly warm days, running your system earlier can help maintain a consistent indoor temperature instead of requiring your unit to work extra hard to cool a hot room.
If your system has a timer function, you can also schedule it to operate around the times your household needs it most.
4. Clean your filters regularly
Dirty filters can restrict airflow and make your air conditioner work harder to deliver the same results. Over time, dust and debris can build up on filters, reducing airflow and potentially affecting indoor air quality.
Clean your filters regularly, particularly during periods of frequent use. Homes with pets, dust or higher levels of occupancy may require more frequent cleaning.
5. Make use of fans
Ceiling fans and portable fans can work alongside your air conditioner to improve your comfort. Fans won’t lower the temperature of a room, but they can circulate air and create a cooling effect on your skin.
Using a fan in combination with your air conditioner may allow you to set the thermostat slightly higher while still feeling comfortable.
6. Keep the outdoor unit clear
For split system air conditioners, the outdoor unit needs adequate airflow to operate efficiently. Make sure plants, leaves, grass and other objects aren't blocking the unit.
Allowing sufficient clearance around the outdoor unit helps it release the heat removed from your home. If you notice debris or vegetation building up around the unit, it may be time to have it checked.
7. Reduce heat coming into your home
Your air conditioner shouldn't have to fight against unnecessary heat from outside. During the hottest part of the day, close blinds, curtains and shutters on windows exposed to direct sunlight.
Good insulation can also make a significant difference to how well your home retains cool air. Reducing the amount of heat entering your home means your air conditioner has less work to do.
8. Avoid leaving the air conditioner running in empty rooms
If you're heading out for a few hours, there's generally little benefit in continuously cooling an empty room. Consider switching the system off or using a timer, depending on the conditions and your home's thermal characteristics. With Mitsubishi Electric’s Wi-Fi Control you can also turn your air conditioner on before you arrive home from the touch of a button on your smartphone.
For homes with multiple air conditioning systems, only cooling occupied areas can also help avoid unnecessary energy use.
9. Don't ignore unusual performance
If your air conditioner isn't cooling as effectively as it normally does, it’s best to not compensate by lowering the thermostat. Poor cooling, unusual noises, unpleasant smells, weak airflow or water leaks can all indicate that the system needs attention.
Addressing problems early can help prevent a small issue from becoming a larger and potentially more expensive repair. Make sure you get in touch with your Northern Beaches air conditioning technician to come and have a look at your system.
10. Book regular air conditioning maintenance
Regular professional maintenance is one of the best ways to keep your air conditioning system operating efficiently. A technician can inspect the system, check its operation, clean components and identify potential issues before they affect performance.
This is particularly important before summer, when your air conditioner is likely to be working harder and more frequently. Regular servicing can help maintain performance, extend the life of your system and ensure it's ready for the warmer months.
Stay cool and efficient this summer
Simple habits such as keeping filters clean, managing sunlight, maintaining good airflow and choosing a sensible temperature can all make a difference when it comes to efficient air conditioning.
If your air conditioner is struggling to keep up with the summer heat or you're unsure when it was last serviced, the team at Alpine Air & Electrical can help. Regular maintenance and professional advice can ensure your system is ready to keep your home comfortable when you need it most.
Book an appointment
Reach out to our friendly team.