Summers in India are harsh and with the coming of summers, the dependence on air conditioners is higher. Using air conditioning all the time is a temptation difficult to resist, just that it skyrockets electricity bills and accounts for the wear and tear of machinery. In this article, we learn how to reduce the AC bill this summer.
It is important to note that if air conditioning is used without maintaining the equipment properly, it could result in health concerns. It is then not right to limit the meaning of efficient use of AC to staying cool. Instead, this has a lot to do with optimizing performance, which in turn extends the life of AC and also saves money. Besides, this also keeps the indoor environment healthier, which is one of the most important benefits of using AC.
The best part is that optimizing the performance of AC comes with few associated complexities. This delivers fine outcomes for you, irrespective of whether you need to improve air quality or cut costs. In this article, we take a look at how to derive the maximum value from your air conditioning system and reduce the AC bill.
Tips to reduce the AC bill this summer
Keeping the temperature right
It is best to keep the temperature of your AC set between 24 and 26 degrees. This facilitates optimal cooling that brings comfort but still does not strain the compressor. This will reduce the AC bill.
When you set your AC to a lower temperature, the temperature difference is relatively small. But for the same, the AC consumes a lot more electricity.
Use ceiling fans with AC
When you use a ceiling fan while running the AC; cool air will be evenly distributed throughout the room. You keep comfortable, even if the temperature is set slightly higher.
Besides, fans do not consume much power, even as they do a great job at defining how effective is your cooling system. So, you reduce the AC bill this way.
Insulation and sealing leaks
Cool air has the tendency to escape through the smallest outlets, which could be windows and small gaps in doors. There are even cases wherein cool air leaks from the walls and some insulation is required for them as well. There are many ways to go about it and you may want to use curtains, sealant, and weather stripping as this will keep the air cool inside.
With proper insulation, the strain on your AC will be reduced. It becomes more efficient and significantly reduces energy waste throughout the day.
When not using the AC, turn it off
Keeping your AC on throughout the day is one of the largest energy drains for a home. To turn off the unit when it is not being used, you may want to use smart plugs or timers. While electricity consumption is reduced, this also safeguards the system’s compressor and related components against unnecessary wear.
Regularly clean the filters
If the filters are dirty, they block the airflow. In such cases, when the room needs to be cooled, an AC will use more power. The right way to go about under such circumstances is to replace or clean the filters every 2 to 4 weeks. By maintaining proper airflow, the functionality of the unit optimizes to not just deliver the best outcomes but also reduce power bills.
Increasing your AC’s durability
Monthly cleaning of filters
If a filter is clogged, it is going to consume additional energy. Similarly, the stress on internal components is going to be more. Cleaning the filter every few weeks is one of the best practices for maintaining an AC. This way, the pressure on the system is reduced and its life extends. The cooling performance remains consistent. With regular upkeep, dust buildup in the system is overcome and the risk of long-term damage is minimized.
Schedule professional maintenance
Many advantages come into the picture when certified experts perform annual checkups for your AC. Problems can be identified before they escalate.
Among the top matters the experts look into include electrical conditions, coil efficiency, and refrigerant levels. So, preventive maintenance is one of the best ways to ensure that your AC delivers a reliable service. Its functional lifespan will increase by many years.
Guard against overuse
If you run an AC nonstop, its lifespan will reduce. So, when you use the AC; try and use energy-saving or sleep modes. In all instances possible, combine cooling with natural ventilation or fans.
Short breaks give compressor the time to rest. This alternatively, works towards minimizing wear and tear of critical components such as circuit boards and motors.
Protect outdoor units
It is recommendable to safeguard the outer units against debris, leaves, and dirt. When the airflow around the unit is sufficient, heat exchange is efficient.
While it is possible, the external unit should be housed in a shaded place. If you regularly clean the surrounding surfaces, the AC runs efficiently and lasts longer.
Using voltage stabilizers
If voltage fluctuations are frequent, they can damage AC components. This stands to be particularly true for areas vulnerable to inconsistent power supply. However, when you use a voltage stabilizer, it safeguards your system against sudden drops or spikes. This way, all internal parts are not exposed to stress. So, even while voltage stabilizers are affordable, they prevent costly breakdowns across the long term.
When the AC is efficient, it keeps you healthy
Maintain clean filters
When filters are clean, they prevent allergens such as pollen and dust from circulating in the indoor air. This is an exceedingly important factor for anyone suffering from allergies or respiratory issues.
Filters should be regularly cleaned or replaced to keep the environment healthier. Odds of throat irritation, coughing, and sneezing are minimized.
Prevent mold growth
Cleaning AC units properly is a must. If moisture accumulates in ducts and coils, it creates a breeding ground for mold. Over time, mold spores could lead to health concerns like skin irritation, respiratory issues, and headaches. But, by controlling humidity levels and periodic servicing, you improve air quality by preventing mold growth.
Sudden temperature shifts are to be avoided
It is best to avoid setting your AC to extremely low temperatures at all times. The odds of sore throats, headaches, and colds are minimized tremendously. Instead, the right way to use your AC is to keep the room temperature moderate and consistent, especially when you return from heat. Gradual cooling allows the body to cope better with the shock that drastic thermal change brings.
Ensure ventilation
When operating, the AC circulates the same air over and over again. An indoor space could feel stale in a dearth of fresh air. So, you may want to open a window occasionally or use an exhaust fan. This not only flushes out pollutants but also brings in fresh oxygen, making the indoor space fresher and healthier.
Use dehumidifiers in all instances required
If humidity levels are high, it results in the growth of dust mites, mildew, and mold. This scenario is more likely to occur during rains. So, it is best to invest in an AC unit that features an inbuilt dehumidifier. This makes the air feel cooler by preventing all health issues related to allergies.
