subject: Save Money On Your Air Conditioning: Drop Your Bills This Summer And Still Remain Comfortable [print this page] Electricity bills have risen markedly, which could have you worried about your air-conditioning bill. However there are a few things you can do to your air-conditioning unit to lower the cost of your cooling and heating bill, while still maintaining optimum comfort in your home or workplace. Plus these great energy saving tips are good for the environment too.
Turn It Up
Adjusting the temperature on your air conditioner can save you hundreds of dollars. Turning your air conditioner up by one or two degrees will make little difference to how you feel, especially if your moving round the home with things like cooking and cleaning to help keep you warm. The trick is to use your air conditioner according to the heat of the day and based on your activity level, not to just set it at a certain temperature and leave it that way.
Maintenance
No matter what air conditioner you have, keeping the air filter clean is essential. A clean filter provides maximum efficiency - meaning that it uses less energy and consequently less money to cool your home. To get the most out of your air conditioner you should have it serviced regularly. Annual checkups can ensure that you aren't wasting extra money on heating or cooling bills, and a professional can ensure everything is clean and well maintained.
Consider A 'Zoned' System
Ducted air conditioners are 'zoned', which means that they can be programmed to heat or cool only one or a few rooms, rather than all of them. This saves money by only using energy where it is needed, also impacting less upon the environment. Just make sure your house is appropriate for this system. If it's too small, you might be better off looking at a split system wall unit for the main room.
Cool Your Home In Other Ways
Your reverse cycle air-conditioning system is a quick and efficient way to cool or heat your home, however using it in conjunction with other measures can save you money and maintain your comfort. Using thick curtains or blinds increases your ability to maintain your home or workplace at a desirable temperature, because they act as insulators. Keeping them closed will not only block the warm rays of sun out, but trap the cool air in, which means your system doesn't need to run all day.
Buy An Energy Efficient System
If you are looking to invest in a new air conditioner and you're worried about your bills, look for a brand or model with the highest energy star rating possible. Or consider an evaporative cooling system - these use far less energy than a regular air-conditioning unit and are the green option in home and business cooling. Again, just check with a professional that this is the best model for your size home.
