Tips to Efficiently Run Your Air Conditioner This Summer on the Sunshine Coast
Air conditioning Sunshine Coast is a must-have, especially reverse cycle for the summer and winter extremes! The question I get a lot is how to keep your air conditioner running efficiently during the summer heat and stay cool on the Sunshine Coast. There are some essential tips and tricks to stay comfortable AND save money. The best way I know how to make those energy savings is to combine air con units with solar panel systems so you can use the power of the sun to give you free (or much cheaper) air con and comfort. Here are some practical tips to help you efficiently run your air conditioning system and maintain a cool environment in your home.
Regular Maintenance
There are some things you (or a technician) can do to physically attend to your air conditioning system, and check outside and inside the unit. While you can do these things yourself, you need to do it properly to minimise risk of damage to yourself or your equipment.
- Clean or Replace Air Filters: Check and clean your air filters every 6–12 months. A clogged filter can reduce airflow and efficiency. If you don’t clean your filters, it causes your air conditioner to work harder and increases energy costs.
- Service Your Unit: Schedule regular maintenance to ensure that your air con unit is in top shape. You’ll have to check (or have checked) the evaporator coil, tighten electrical connections, and inspect refrigerant lines.
- Clear the Condensate Drain: Ensure that the drain line is clear to prevent water damage and maintain efficiency. You’ll want your technician to check the compressor and refrigerant of your ac unit.
Optimal Temperature Settings
Now that the unit is looked after, let’s look at the operations!
- Set Your Air Conditioner Temperature: Aim for a comfortable set temperature around 23–24°C. Keeping your air conditioning optimally at this range can help you save on electricity bills while ensuring comfort. Remember, I recommend solar panel and battery systems, or least a solar pv system that is battery-ready. When you can feel confident that you’re getting free energy from the sun (via your solar panels) you can put your air con on for longer, not pay, AND keep your system working more efficiently. It’s a huge Win-Win!
- Maintain Consistency: Keep the temperature consistent throughout the day. Avoid adjusting the thermostat frequently, as this can cause your air conditioning system to work harder. Again, the benefit of having solar means it’s easier to maintain a steady temperature because you can put your air on earlier and leave it on longer. Comfort never felt so good! You can even leave the system on for longer, even when you’re not at home, to maintain that consistency so your system doesn’t work hard to bring down scorching temperatures in the middle of the day. If you put it on BEFORE your house starts to heat, there will be far less strain and your machines will have a longer lifespan.
- Use Programmable Thermostats: Consider using a programmable temperature controller to adjust temperatures based on your schedule, helping you save energy when you’re not home.
Energy Efficiency Tips
- Use Fans: Ceiling fans or portable fans can help circulate cool air more effectively, allowing you to set the thermostat a few degrees higher without sacrificing comfort. Evaporative cooling is when moving air across your skin cools your sweat and creates a cool feeling. That’s how fans work to give the perception of cooling because they don’t literally cool the air. So, fans work exceedingly well with air conditioners.
- Insulate Your Home: Proper insulation helps keep cool air in and hot air out. Make sure your windows and doors are sealed properly.
- Close Off Unused Rooms: When running your air conditioner, close doors to rooms that aren’t in use to reduce the cooling space and improve efficiency.
Other Things You Can Do
- Check for Airflow Issues: Ensure that vents are not blocked by furniture or decor. Proper airflow is crucial if you want an effective cooling system.
- Utilise Dry Mode: Maybe you haven’t heard of this feature to reduce excess moisture. If your unit has a dry mode, use it during humid conditions. It helps reduce moisture in the air and makes it feel cooler without relying solely on the cooling function.
- Monitor Humidity Levels: High humidity can make your home feel warmer. Keep humidity levels between 30% and 50% for optimal comfort.
Keep Your Air Conditioning Sunshine Coast Efficient from Summer into Winter!
I recommend you follow the above tips, and if you do, your air conditioner will more likely operate efficiently and effectively. Honestly, it’s what you have to do if you want to keep your home cool and comfortable throughout the summer months on the Sunshine Coast. And what happens then? Well, then we roll into our version of winter! It’s not freezing by any means on the coast, but you still want your system to switch to keeping you warm. And for that, you’ll need to keep it healthy. For any maintenance needs or expert advice, consider reaching out to local professionals to help you maintain your system and enjoy the benefits of a properly functioning air conditioning unit.
At SWIFT Solar and Electrical, we specialise in installing solar and air conditioning systems. Together, they are the ultimate way to conserve your energy consumption, maintain a desired temperature and comfort in your home. This article was not so much about which is the best air conditioner to buy, but rather how you can make sure how to maintain the desired temperature, keep your cool, reduce energy bills and stay comfortable in the warmer weather. As we move towards winter, the same conditions apply! With the right systems (both rooftop and reverse cycle, wall unit and ducted air con systems) they will reduce your energy costs. It’s crazy that you can use something even more (without overworking it) and save money at the same time. If you want to know more, just call us on 0422 251 734.
