Cooling your home efficiently with an air conditioner

As a leading Australian e-commerce retailer, Appliances Online understands the importance of having an efficient cooling system in your home, especially during the scorching summer months. Here, we share some expert tips on how to use your air conditioner more effectively, ensuring you stay cool while keeping your energy bills under control.

Just like any other appliance, your air conditioner needs regular maintenance to perform at its best. Dirty filters and coils can reduce your system's efficiency, leading to higher energy consumption. Make sure to clean or replace your filters every 1-2 months during the seasons the unit gets most used, i.e. summer for cooling and winter if you use your air conditioner for efficient home heating.

If your air con doesn't have one built-in, investing in a programmable thermostat can help you manage your cooling needs more efficiently. You can set your air conditioner to operate at higher temperatures when you're not home and cool down just before you return. This way, you're not wasting energy cooling an empty house.

When it's time to replace your old air conditioner, consider opting for an energy-efficient model. Look for units with higher Energy Star ratings. These models may cost more upfront, but they are more likely to be able to save you money in the long run through reduced energy bills.

In terms of temperature, setting the thermostat closer to the outdoor temperature reduces the workload on your air conditioner to maintain a comfortable indoor environment. A recommended energy-efficient temperature range for cooling is typically between 24-26°C. While it might be tempting to set it to a fresh 18 degrees on sweltering hot days, resist the urge! Doing so would be very energy intensive, expensive and, for most people, completely unnecessary.

Pairing your air conditioner with other cooling methods can enhance its efficiency. For instance, using ceiling fans can circulate the cool air more effectively, allowing you to raise the thermostat by a few degrees without compromising comfort. 

Ensure your home is properly sealed and insulated to prevent cool air from escaping. Check for drafts around windows and doors, and use weatherstripping or caulk to seal any gaps.

Try to avoid activities that generate a lot of heat, such as cooking or using the dryer, during the hottest part of the day. This can help keep your home cooler, reducing the workload on your air conditioner.

Remember, an efficient air conditioner not only saves you money but also contributes to a healthier environment by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. At Appliances Online, we offer a wide range of energy-efficient air conditioners to suit different needs and budgets. Need more home cooling ideas? Here are 10 budget-friendly ways to keep cool at home on hot days.

Appliances Online's legendary FREE delivery reaches 95% of Australia's population, and if it’s in stock you’ll usually receive your new cooling system the day after ordering (Mon-Fri). We also offer paid Same Day Delivery in metro NSW, Qld and Vic on weekday orders placed by 12pm. If you have any questions, call us 24/7 on 1300 000 500, or message us via the chat icon at the bottom right of your screen.