Below, Mytour shares with you some tips on using air conditioning efficiently to minimize your monthly electricity bill.
Guide to Properly Using Air Conditioning to Cut Down on Electricity Costs
Mastering the Proper Use of Air Conditioning to Save Electricity
1. Set the Optimal Temperature
When it comes to air conditioning and refrigeration, the lower you set the temperature, the more money you'll spend on your monthly bill. Therefore, if possible, set the highest temperature that still maintains a cool atmosphere in the room. Avoid setting the temperature too low, even on the hottest summer days, as the significant temperature difference not only increases electricity consumption but also adversely affects your health and that of your family.
Setting the Temperature Appropriately for Good Health
Health experts recommend the ideal temperature range for air conditioning to be 25-28 degrees Celsius for adults and 28-30 degrees Celsius for children.
2. Avoid Direct Sunlight
While morning sunlight is beneficial for our health, during the hottest days of summer like recently when we feel like we're about to evaporate due to the heat, sunlight becomes extremely harmful. Moreover, the heat from sunlight forces the air conditioner to work harder to cool down, resulting in increased energy consumption. Therefore, close the curtains tightly to avoid sunlight entering your home.
3. Ensure Your Home is Well-Insulated from the Outside
One of the major reasons for high electricity consumption when using air conditioning and refrigerators is poor insulation in the house. Older homes may have cracks and doors that don't fully seal. The more heat leaks, the more money you'll spend on electricity.
4. Clean the Air Conditioner Filter
Guide on how to clean the air conditioner filter for easier air circulation
Over time, the filter in the air conditioner's evaporator coil will accumulate dust, leading to restricted airflow. The air conditioner will then use more electricity to cool as desired. Don't wait for the filter to get clogged before cleaning. Clean and replace it every 1-3 months for better airflow.
5. Avoid placing electronic devices near the thermostat
Thermostats are highly sensitive to temperature. If they detect a higher temperature in their surroundings, they will keep the air conditioner running until the entire space is adequately cooled. Therefore, avoid placing the thermostat near heat-emitting devices such as TVs, computers, or lamps.
6. Use ceiling fans
Using both a fan and an air conditioner simultaneously may seem like it consumes more electricity, but it doesn't. Ceiling fans enhance airflow in the room, meaning the air conditioner doesn't need to work as hard to circulate cool air. Ceiling fans consume less energy and support the air conditioner to operate more efficiently.
7. Regular Maintenance
Air conditioners need to be properly maintained on a regular basis, preferably by professional technicians annually. They ensure that critical components remain clean, drainage pipes are clear, and refrigerant levels are optimal. Maintenance enhances the efficiency of air conditioners, making them use energy more efficiently.
8. Replace Old Air Conditioners
An air conditioner that has been in use for over 10 years may require extensive repairs and become costly. Moreover, frequent repairs make air conditioners less efficient over time. Therefore, you should consider purchasing a new air conditioner if it's too old, consuming excessive electricity, and not cooling as expected.
Additionally, to save electricity, it's recommended to purchase and use Inverter Air Conditioners. If you're unfamiliar with this type of air conditioner, you can refer to the article What is an Inverter Air Conditioner here.
