Tips to Reducing your Air Conditioning Bill
Mij Gibson Nov 16, 2020
The beautiful summer months also brings challenges with increased temperatures that increase our energy bill, as we turn on the air conditioning and watch our hard-earned dollars fly out the window! Covid-19 has exacerbated the problem many of us forced to work from home adding five extra days each week of cooling cost during the peak mid-day sun.
So here are some energy saving tips to help cut air conditioning costs while keeping our homes comfortably cooled without boosting the energy company’s profit margins further!.
Origin says that an older air con unit could cost you more than investing in a newer model, with the difference between a “15-year-old split system and one bought today can range between $57 to $166 per year”. But this means you have to come up with the dough to get the new system! And they aren’t exactly cheap!
So consult your local air conditioning specialist to help identify the right system for you and to help avoid any unnecessary financial costs. It’s better to shop around. Contact a minimum of three different suppliers to compare price and advice. Remember, if you don’t understand anything get them to explain it until you do!
21celsius suggests that, as a guideline, you “set your unit to 24°C during summer and 19°C in winter”. They also suggest that as a general rule that you try not to set your temperature any lower than 8°C below outdoor temperature during the summer. Remember this rule is a guideline so if you choose instead to run your air-conditioner on full-blast then your energy bill will most likely skyrocket. So experiment with your temperature settings to find the highest possible temperature that still allows you to remain comfortable.
Air-conditioning lowers humidity as it cools the air so you shouldn't need to run a separate dehumidifier.
Use ceiling fans on days with maximum temperatures between 28°C and 30°C to cut air conditioning costs without sacrificing your comfort. It also improves airflow, humidity and ventilation, providing you with cleaner, healthier air.
Ensure you have ceiling insulation to absorb or reflect between 30-45% of heat entering your home.
Double glaze windows and doors to reduce up to 40% of heat entering your home compared to standard glass.
Shade your home to keep it out of direct sunlight in summer – think covered verandahs, pergolas, adjustable shades, louvres and tall plants. Also opt for light-colored window treatments that reflect the sun's rays, and draw the curtains or blinds to block the light. If outdoor temperatures are cool at night, cross-ventilate rooms by opening windows. Close them again in the morning to seal in the cool air.
Dry your clothes on a washing line or clothes rack
Use your aircon for an hour less on hot days
Plug up air leaks around your doors and windows. You can use an incense stick to help detect air leaks by simply holding it up to suspected air leaks and watch the smoke to see if the air is flowing in or out.
Keep your air-conditioner in tip-top working order with regular maintenance.
Remember to consult your local air conditioning specialist for help.