We’re sure most of you would be itching to put on the Air conditioner in the next few days as temperatures are about to soar into mid-thirties. Some of the office premises may have already switched them on during afternoon hours. But we urge you to read this advice before turning to Air conditioning. Home or office, these valuable point would not only save on electricity bills in coming months but also protect us from diseases like cough and cold, body pain, headaches and dehydration that are caused due to temperatures differences.
Find a shade for the air-conditioner – Air-conditioner functions better while the outside air temperature is cooler. You can cool down the surrounding air temperature of an air-conditioner by providing it a shade from direct sunlight.
Apply external shades to windows - While we close blinds and windows at night to contain the heat in winters, the same should be done during days in summer to keep the heat out. Close the blinds early in the morning before the sun can warm up the house and wait until it cools down outside in the evening to open them again. This will help reduce the load on the air conditioner.
Know the standard air-conditioner temperature during summers - The standard air-conditioner temperature for summers is 18 to 21 degrees. During summer the humidity indoor will be lower, making it feel cooler even with a slightly warmer temperature set. For each degree you step outside of these temperatures you will consume approximately 8% more energy, adding up to a lot of money when your next bill comes.
Adjusting or positioning air slots – The unit with this facility could be used to save energy. Air slots should be aimed downwards when heating is on and upward when cooling is on. As hot air rises up and cool air falls, this will help to evenly distribute the air throughout the room.
Keep filters clear and fit - The amount of dust and dirt that build up in your filters can lead to blocking the air and forcing your air conditioner into working harder. Cleaning the filters is usually a simple, easy procedure that can be done in a few minutes with a vacuum cleaner. We suggest you look to your unit’s manual for guidance.
Switch on Air-conditioner when temperature is low outside - you can turn your air conditioner on while the temperature outside is still relatively cool this will increase the efficiency of the air conditioner as there is less difference between the internal and external temperatures, making it easier for the air conditioner to reach the desired temperature and then maintain it when it becomes hotter outside.
Keep the air-conditioner fan slow when humidity is high - During humid weather having your fan set to a slower speed will actually cool more effectively as the slower the air moves through the cooling equipment, the more moisture can be removed from it. You can also consider using an interior fan at the same time to help circulate the cooler air throughout the room.
Keep home appliances away from Air-conditioner – Home appliances heat could affect the thermostat’s reading and can lead to it misreading the room’s temperature and over-cooling the house.
Maintain air-conditioner regularly - Various parts of the air conditioner can become blocked or break down, leading to less efficiency. It’s important to try and have your air conditioner serviced each year as you come into summer to ensure it’s running to its full potential. You can check yourself to see that it is sitting level; that the seal between the air conditioner and the house is not damaged; and through passing a stiff wire through the air conditioner’s drainage pipes you can ensure that they haven’t become clogged.
Photograph by Greencolander
