Here at Eco Smart we have a few good tips so that you can get your air conditioner operating as efficiently as possible. Saving you money and energy while your air conditioner works even better!  

1. Maximum area of use for efficient air conditioning

Your air conditioner system has been designed to accommodate a maximum are of use at any one time. The general rule of thumb is that you can operate your living areas during the day and the equivalent at night. Contact your installer/consultant to confirm this information if you are unsure. Running your system outside of the original design criteria will prevent your system from achieving its desired operating efficiencies.

2. Install blinds and external shades for windows

Heat travels easily through glass. While we close blinds and windows at night to keep the heat in, 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.

3. Closing off areas not to be airconditioned

While there can be a strong urge to have extremely cool temperatures in Summer and very warm temperatures in Winter, this is not necessary and puts an additional load on your air conditioner. Technically, during summer the humidity indoors 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.

4. With air conditioners that have adjustable vents, position them towards the floor when heating and towards
the ceiling when cooling

As hot air rises and cool air falls this will help to evenly distribute the air throughout the room.

5. Inspect and clean air conditioner filters regularly

The amount of dust and dirt that can build up in your air conditioning filters is quite phenomenal. It 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. For the commonly installed hinged filters we suggest you clean them monthly especially in area's under development where there is plenty of dirt and dust around.

6. On a hot day, try and turn the air conditioner on as early as possible

If 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.

7. On very humid days have the air conditioner fan speed set to slow

During humid weather having your air conditioner 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.

8. Don't set up televisions or lamps near the thermostat for your air conditioner

Lamps, televisions and other appliances can emit a fair amount of heat which will affect the air conditioner's thermostat reading and can lead to it misreading the room's temperature and over-cooling the house.

9. Have your air conditioner regularly serviced

9. Have your air conditioner regularly serviced. 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 to ensure it's running to its full capacity. We suggest that you service your air conditioning system during winter to avoid lengthy delays and to have peace of mind your system is in good working order ready for summer. You will also probably find that it won't be as expensive either.

10. Resetting the air conditioner

Switch the air conditioner off at the main power switch. The main power switch is occasionally located adjacent the outdoor unit. Wait about 15 seconds after the air conditioner has turned off before turning the main power switch back on. You may need to wait up to 5 minutes for the compressor to turn on. If the air conditioner still does not seem to work, it may be faulty. A frequent need for resetting should be investigated.

We hope that with these quick air conditioning tips can have your air conditioner running at its maximum capacity whilst helping you to cut down on running costs and energy usage.