It’s been another scorching summer, and there’s a good chance you’ve been thanking your air conditioning unit for the cool relief it has offered. But if you haven’t paid much attention to HOW you’ve been using your AC, you might fall victim to a sky high energy bill, especially because running an air conditioning system is the single most energy hungry appliance in most homes.

Since there’s nothing worse than a horror hangover from your next power bill, here’s 10 ways to reduce the running costs of your air conditioning proudly brought to you by the air conditioning servicing and installation experts here at Fixzit.

1. Close windows and doors
The bigger the area that needs to be cooled, the harder your air conditioner has to work (and the more energy that it will consume.) For this reason it makes sense to close off the area that you want to cool by shutting windows and doors.

2. Run the air conditioning unit @ 24°C
This is the most energy efficient temperature to operate an AC system, while still offering cool comfort. Setting the thermostat cooler than this will add another 10 per cent to the running costs of your system for each additional degree.

3. Only use the AC when necessary
Its common knowledge but the less you use AC, the more you will keep your AC bill under control. On slightly cooler summer days, using fans instead (especially for smaller rooms) can be an effective alternative to your AC.

4. Shut the blinds/curtains
In addition to closing windows, shutting the blinds or curtains helps act as a thermal barrier and will reduce the amount of heat that is transferred into the home.

5. Invest in a more energy efficient AC system
If you’re air conditioner is rattling, creaking and purchased last millennium, it might be time to invest in a new energy efficient system with the latest energy efficient technology. This can include a higher energy star rating, an inverter system and air conditioners with PeakSmart capabilities.

6. Keep your system maintained and serviced
Poorly maintain systems costs more to run. Therefore cleaning your air conditioning filters along with the outdoor condenser unit will cost less to operate than a unit struggling with no servicing or new refrigerant. Make sure the outdoor unit is not being blocked by debris, leaves or tall grass and kept in the shade

7. Don’t leave the system running when out
It’s a myth that keeping your air con on saves more money than turning it on and off. If your air conditioner is on it is constantly working to keep the home at a steady temperature whereas if it’s turned off when you are out, the home will gradually heat up and stay at whatever the ambient temperature is. It’s important to turn your system off if you go out, or are not in the home if you’re serious about saving on your AC bill.

8. Don’t place appliances near the indoor unit
These can be incandescent light bulbs, other lamps or TV’s. Don’t add extra heat to your home if possible by using appliances like the iron, stove and washers and dryers in the early morning or late evening. Turn off computers and other appliances if they are not being used.

9. Shade areas around the windows
Create shade around the outside of your home as a long term strategy to keep your household cooler. This can be achieved with trees and plants or through overhanging window awnings.

10.Open windows and doors and catch the breeze
If the outside temperature is cooler than the inside temperature. Often people still keep their AC running when they don’t realise the outside temperature has actually dropped.

There’s no doubt that air conditioning is a lifesaver here in Brisbane especially during summer. Being able to rely on your AC system for those stinking hot days can keep you comfortable, and help you get a good night’s sleep.

For all your AC needs, the Fixzit air conditioning team are the ones you can count on to keep you comfortable no matter what the time of year. Call us on 1300 726 806 today.