Your air conditioner is reliable equipment that helps you get through the scorching heat of summer. But with all its cooling and air cleaning benefits, your air conditioner can make up a huge percentage of your overall electricity bills. It can even increase during the summer when the heat becomes more uncomfortable.
Luckily, there are some things that you can do to increase the efficiency of your air conditioner while saving on electricity bills.
Take good advantage of your air conditioner now with these helpful tips.
Signs that Your AC Is Not Working Efficiently
Before diving into the tips to improve the efficiency of your air conditioner, let’s first look at some signs that its efficiency is starting to drop.
If you're sweating and feeling rather uncomfy even when your air conditioner is operating, it’s a sign that there is a problem with your appliance. However, there are other factors that can easily be overlooked but can still affect the performance of your air conditioner.
- Weak AC air flow due to an air compressor problem or refrigerant issue
- Strange air conditioner noise
- Water puddles near your AC unit
- Pungent smell coming from your air conditioner
- Increased electricity bills
While the air conditioner is bound to make some noise during its operation, a noisy air compressor can mean various things. To detect and prevent issues with your AC unit, make sure to have it serviced and maintained at least once a year.
Proper use of your air conditioner can also help you make the most of its lifespan.
How to Improve the Efficiency of Your Air Conditioner
Clean the Outdoor Area Around Your AC Condenser
Like the indoor unit, your outdoor unit is also prone to clogging, which can significantly affect the efficiency of your HVAC system. When cleaning your indoor unit, take some time to check your outside condenser. Remove some debris or blockage to make sure that it functions properly. If it’s possible, hide your outdoor unit from direct sunlight without fully enclosing it.
As much as possible, install your air conditioner away from direct sunlight.
Clean the Vents
Dust and other debris can build up in your vents and clog them, preventing cool air from properly circulating in your room. When cleaning your air conditioner, check your air vents and make sure that there are no blockages.
You can also maximise the airflow within your room by installing your air conditioner away from possible blockages, like tall furniture pieces.
Clean and Replace Your Filters
Sometimes, the solution to your "AC not working properly" problem is a bit of cleaning.
Improve the airflow and air cleaning efficiency of your AC unit by cleaning the permanent air filters regularly. If your air filters are disposable, always replace them when needed. You can do this every month to prevent dust from building up. If you have pets at home, clean your air conditioner more frequently.
Consider Adding a Fan
Your air conditioner is a reliable appliance that helps you maintain a cool, fresh, and clean home. But sometimes, even this hardworking HVAC system needs some help.
Investing in a ceiling fan can help improve the air circulation within your home while your AC is operating. This can also help you save on electricity, especially during hotter days when your air conditioner is usually working harder.
Keep Heat-Producing Appliances Away From Your AC
Heat from your gadgets and appliances can confuse your air conditioner’s thermostat, prompting your appliance to work harder than it should.
If you’re not using your television or other appliances, make sure to turn them off and unplug them so they won’t release unnecessary heat. Lamps should also be turned off at night if you’re comfortable sleeping with the lights off. This can help you make the most of your air conditioner’s efficiency without forcing it to work harder.
Cover Your Windows
Sometimes, doing something as simple as closing your windows during peak hours or when the sun is especially hot is the answer to reducing the demands on your air conditioner.
The sunlight that enters your window can easily affect your indoor temperature. It’s good to let sunlight enter your home in the morning, but make sure to regulate it in the afternoon.
You can simply pull your curtains down during the hottest part of the day or use UV-blocking blinds to protect your air conditioner’s efficiency.
Have Your Air Conditioner Serviced Before Summer
Like your car, your reliable air conditioner also needs annual servicing to operate at its best. Before summer hits and your air conditioner works harder than usual, have it checked by HVAC professionals. This is to detect and fix issues before they cause a bigger problem. Deep cleaning procedures should also be done regularly to prevent clogs and leakage.
When Should You Replace Your Air Conditioner?
An air conditioner is an expensive investment and can also be expensive to operate, especially when not used efficiently. Many air conditioners can last for a decade or more. Since air conditioners are exposed to different temperatures and outdoor conditions, they go through more wear and tear compared to other appliances.
If your air conditioner is already 10 years old, you should be prepared to replace your appliance or go through frequent repairs. Especially if it hasn’t gone through annual servicing.
If your air conditioner is no longer under warranty and requires an expensive repair, it's time to replace it. Furthermore, if you're paying for higher electricity bills and repairs without receiving the full value of your AC unit's efficiency, it's time to look for a replacement.
We recommend trying the tips above to make the most of your air conditioner investment. Practicing regular cleaning and maintenance can also help you make the most of your HVAC system.
If you are looking for a new air conditioner with innovative functions and better energy efficiency, browse through our collection of energy-efficient air conditioners from your trusted brands in Singapore. Our dedicated professionals are also here to help you throughout your journey, from shopping to installation.