Believe it or not there are still many people out there that don’t realise that with a few simple adjustments to how you use your AC system, you can save a good amount of energy (and money). Heating and cooling account for nearly 50% of the average household’s energy use, so it’s definitely worth a look to see how you can cut down on waste and costs. The key to energy efficiency lies in smarter use and maintenance strategies and that goes for if you have a split or a ducted air conditioning system. Let’s have a look at some of the most actionable tips you can use to help you maximise your systems performance and reduce your energy consumption.
1. Thermostat Settings
One of the easiest ways to save on your energy bill is by setting your thermostat to the right temperature. Aim for 24–26°C in summer. Every degree lower can increase energy consumption by 5–10%, so keeping it at a higher but comfortable setting will help you save a substantial amount.
For even bigger savings, have a think about using a programmable or smart thermostat. These will allow you to schedule your cooling cycles based on when you’re home. For example, you can set the system to turn off while you’re at work and cool things down just before you return. Smart thermostats will also provide you with real-time usage data to help you adjust your habits and see when you’re using more energy. Sometimes this visual representation can help you spring into action to reduce your usage.
2. Natural Ventilation
Where possible, give your air conditioner a break by taking advantage of natural ventilation. During cooler evenings or early mornings, open windows to allow fresh, cool air to circulate. Ceiling and standing fans can help improve the airflow in your home, creating a breeze that feels several degrees cooler than the actual temperature. This alone might reduce or eliminate the need for air conditioning during these hours.
To block out heat during the hottest parts of the day, close curtains, blinds, or reflective shades. This prevents rooms from overheating and reduces how hard your AC system has to work. Awnings also help during the summer by blocking direct light from entering certain parts of your home.
3. Energy Efficient Equipment
Air conditioning systems with higher energy-star ratings are designed to consume less power while delivering the same level of cooling. If you’re shopping for a new AC unit, look for models with inverter technology, which adjusts the system’s output to maintain a steady temperature. If you’re unsure, ask some AC companies for a recommendation for the most efficient air conditioning installation. Unlike older units that cycle on and off, inverters reduce energy spikes, saving you money in the long run.
4. Maintain Your Air Conditioner Regularly
Proper maintenance is going to be needed if you want to keep your AC system running efficiently. Cleaning or replacing air filters monthly (or as recommended by the manufacturer) is a absolute must, as clogged filters will force your system to work a lot harder. Dusty or blocked filters can reduce efficiency by up to 15%.
Schedule professional servicing at least once a year. The technicians will then inspect the main components like coils and ducts to ensure the system is operating at peak performance. If your system has leaks or build up in the ducts, it may need to run longer to cool your space (consuming more energy and costing you more money).
5. Seal and Insulate Your Home
Cooling a house that isn’t properly sealed can waste a great deal of energy. Check for gaps in windows, doors, and walls where air might escape, and seal them with weatherstripping or caulking. Insulation is equally important, as it keeps cool air inside and hot air out. If you add insulation to your attic or walls it can improve cooling efficiency by up to 20%.
6. Be Strategic
If you use your air conditioner strategically, you’ll be able to gain noticeable savings. Zone cooling, for example, focuses on cooling only the areas where people spend the most time. Close the doors to unused rooms to avoid wasting energy on spaces that don’t need cooling.
Top Tip – Air conditioning systems are most efficient when running for longer, steadier cycles rather than being frequently turned on and off. Try to avoid the temptation to constantly adjust the temperature, as it places extra strain on the system and uses more energy.
