Common mistakes when using air conditioners

Not everyone knows how to use air conditioners efficiently and save electricity. Photo: Freepik .

Air conditioners always consume a lot of electricity, especially when run continuously during hot weather. Although many families now have air conditioners, not everyone knows how to use them efficiently.

Some people believe that electricity can be saved by turning on the air conditioner at a very low temperature, such as 17 degrees Celsius, for a short time to cool the room, then turning it off and on again when the room heats up.

However, The Conversation argues that air conditioners require a lot of energy to bring a room to a very cold temperature. In fact, constantly turning the air conditioner on and off isn't the most energy-efficient option.

First, users need to understand how air conditioners work. Newer models often use inverter technology, which can automatically adjust the compressor's power to maintain the room temperature at the set level.

Older air conditioners without inverter technology can still automatically turn the compressor on and off. If you pay attention, you will be able to feel and hear the sound when the compressor turns on and off.

If using air conditioning, The Conversation suggests that an effective way to save energy is to set the temperature to the highest setting that you still feel comfortable with, ranging from around 26 degrees Celsius during the day and 22 degrees Celsius while sleeping. Then, just let the air conditioner run.

Setting the temperature too low will cause the air conditioner to consume more energy. For every 1 degree Celsius decrease, electricity consumption can increase by 5-10%. That's why constantly turning the air conditioner on and off at low temperatures is not an efficient way to use it.

Combining air conditioning with a standing or ceiling fan also provides good cooling. The airflow from the fan helps the body feel 2-3 degrees Celsius cooler thanks to air circulation.

Users are also advised to clean the filter regularly, ensuring that the heat exchanger and ventilation slots of the indoor and outdoor units are not obstructed.

If the outdoor unit components are corroded or warped, the unit may not function properly. Animals also pose a risk of damaging the outdoor unit, but these parts are relatively easy to replace.

If you notice that your air conditioner is not working properly, making unusual noises, or displaying an error message, you should contact the manufacturer for assistance.

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Users can lower the natural room temperature before turning on the air conditioner. Photo: Shutterstock .

To save electricity, users should also consider lowering the room's natural temperature before maintaining it with air conditioning.

According to The Conversation , high temperatures can transfer through walls, windows, and ceilings. Hot air also seeps through gaps under doors, windows, or vents. Electronic devices and people inside the house also generate heat, albeit relatively small amounts.

To reduce heat entering the house, draw curtains and close windows before it gets hot, and install windbreaks.

Planting trees is also an effective and long-term solution. In the summer, the leaves provide natural shade and block out some of the sunlight. In the winter, the trees shed their leaves, allowing sunlight to penetrate.

If you have the time and budget, consider installing exterior sunshades, insulating the ceiling, installing glass, and checking window seals. In extremely hot weather, limit the use of ovens and stovetops, although some energy-efficient models may generate less heat.