As summer arrives, many of us face the challenge of soaring electricity bills. With the rising temperatures, there’s a surge in electricity usage due to appliances like refrigerators, ceiling fans, air conditioners, and coolers being in high demand. Among these, the air conditioner (AC) stands out as one of the most frequently used appliances during hot weather, but its inefficient use can significantly impact your finances.
Even though modern AC units are more energy-efficient than older models, they still contribute substantially to your monthly electricity expenses. To alleviate this financial burden, here are seven straightforward tips to help you trim your electricity bill while still enjoying the comfort of your AC.
Tips to reduce your AC bills
1. Ensure to switch off the air conditioner when it is not being used
Many of us desire instant cooling when we activate our AC with the remote control. However, some individuals simply use the remote to turn off the appliance without cutting off power at the source. This leads to electricity wastage known as “idle load,” where the compressor remains idle to facilitate immediate start-up when the AC is activated again.
2. Adjust your AC temperature to the optimal setting
There’s a common misconception that setting the AC temperature lower will result in better cooling. However, according to the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), 24 degrees Celsius is the optimal temperature for human comfort. At this setting, the AC operates more efficiently, requiring less energy to achieve the desired cooling effect. Therefore, setting your AC temperature at the optimum level of 24 degrees Celsius can lead to significant electricity savings.
3. Set timer to prevent unnecessary usage
Most air conditioners on the market today come with timer settings, yet it’s a feature often underused.Setting timers allows you to schedule when the AC should turn off, preventing unnecessary usage and reducing electricity wastage, particularly when the AC is left running inadvertently or during sleeping hours.
4. Allow the accumulated heat to escape from your room
It’s advisable to ventilate your room prior to switching off the AC. Open the doors and windows while the ceiling fan is running to facilitate the release of trapped heat. This action lowers the room temperature, enabling the AC to cool more efficiently and consume less energy during operation.
5. Ensure regular servicing of your AC
Many manufacturers claim that their AC units don’t need frequent servicing, which is partly true. However, it’s advisable to schedule regular servicing for your AC. In India, ACs often remain unused for extended periods, leading to dust accumulation and decreased efficiency. Regular maintenance enhances its performance, leading to lower energy consumption.
6. Make sure that the cool air remains inside the room
Ensure that your room remains tightly sealed while the AC is operational. Close all windows and doors and consider sealing any gaps under doors or around window panels. This will facilitate quicker and longer lasting cooling . Escaping cold air can lead to prolonged AC operation and increased energy consumption.
7. Switch on the ceiling fan at a moderate speed along with the AC
Operating the ceiling fan at a low or moderate speed while the AC is running aids in rapidly cooling the room. After setting the AC temperature to an optimal level, activating the fan helps distribute the cold air more effectively. However, it’s important to avoid running the ceiling fan at high speeds simultaneously with the AC this could prolong the cooling process unnecessarily.
