This summer, knowing how to improve air conditioner efficiency will help you beat the heat without breaking the bank.
Whether you have split systems, ducted air conditioners or evaporative coolers, if you boost energy efficiency, you can lower your power consumption, save money and generally be more comfortable.
Many homeowners don’t realise how simple changes can make a big difference to an air conditioning unit’s performance. You don’t need a full system overhaul or an expensive upgrade to enjoy optimal efficiency.
Just a few tweaks can make your existing system far more energy efficient. Here are 5 simple ways to manage your energy usage this cooling season.
1. Schedule Regular Maintenance
Like any major household appliance, your air conditioner needs maintenance to run efficiently on hot days.
Blocked filters and dirty coils restrict airflow and make the unit work harder, which increases electricity usage. Clean filters help the system to maintain a steady flow of cool air and reduce stress on internal components.
With reverse cycle air conditioners, it’s important that you check both heating and cooling modes are working. Clean your air conditioning return filters every 1 to 2 months during peak usage periods like summer. Schedule a yearly professional service from an ARC-licensed technician to check refrigerant levels, thermostat settings and system controls.
Air conditioning maintenance prevents breakdowns, helps lower power bills, and improves overall energy efficiency.
2. Seal and Insulate Your Home
Even the most energy-efficient cooling/heating system will struggle if your home leaks air.
Gaps around windows, doors and external wall sections let hot air in and cool air out. This causes your AC system to run longer and increases your air conditioner running costs. Sealing gaps and insulating the roof, walls and floors keeps the internal temperature stable. It also reduces heat energy loss in winter and cooling energy loss in summer.
Good insulation reduces your reliance on cooling appliances and gas heaters, so you use less energy overall. It’s a truly cost-effective option for your home.
3. Use a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat helps you use your air conditioning unit more efficiently.
You can set your system to match your daily schedule so it cools when you need it and conserves energy when you’re not home. This helps you save energy and avoid wastage without sacrificing comfort.
During the summer, set your thermostat to around 25–27°C to find the most energy-efficient way to stay cool. Don’t set it too low, as this doesn’t speed up cooling but does use more energy. Smart thermostats also learn your habits, so you have better control over energy use and indoor temperature.
4. Use Fans To Assist Cooling
Using ceiling fans to assist cooling is one of the easiest ways to support your air conditioning system. Though they don’t necessarily cool the room and neutralise any excess heat, they aid in circulating the air and create a breeze that makes you feel cooler. Here’s how to get the most from your
- Use ceiling fans only when you are in the room, as they help to cool people rather than spaces.
- Set fan blades to rotate anti-clockwise or summer mode to create a downdraft during summer.
- Turn fans off when you leave the room
- Pair fans with reverse-cycle air conditioners or split system units
- Keep doors and windows shut if you’re using refrigerated air conditioning to cool your home. If you have an evaporative cooler, Sustainability Victoria recommends you open windows and doors slightly.
Fans distribute air more evenly, so you can set your thermostat higher without losing comfort. They use much less power than air conditioners and can save you money when used wisely.
5. Choose the Right AC for Your Home
We see a vast range of new air conditioner models appear on the market, year after year. Choosing the right one makes a big difference in energy efficiency.
Always check the Zoned Energy Rating Label (this is the update to the older Energy Efficiency Rating label for air conditioners) to find and compare models for your climate zone. A unit that’s too small won’t cool your home properly, while an oversized system wastes energy by turning on and off.
Ducted systems are good for blowing air throughout the entire home, while a split system is best suited to individual rooms. Reverse cycle air conditioners provide 3 to 6 times the heating and cooling per unit of electricity. It means you don’t need gas heaters or wood heaters and can save on overall energy bills.
Always Use a Licensed AC Technician
Using a licensed air conditioning technician ensures your system runs at its best and delivers the ideal temperature inside your home.
Poor installation or incorrect repairs can increase energy consumption, damage components, and create safety risks. An ARC-licensed technician follows Australian standards and is the only person who can legally handle refrigerants. For any electrical connections, get on the phone with a licensed electrician.
Whether you’re installing an evaporative unit, servicing a ducted system or upgrading to an energy-efficient wall unit, you’ll need professional help from a licensed technician. It also protects your warranty and ensures your cooling and heating work as intended.
Stay Cool This Summer with Energy Efficiency
Knowing how to improve air conditioner efficiency pays off in the long run. Small changes like cleaning filters, sealing leaks, using fans and upgrading thermostats can save you dollars off your electricity bill. Over time, those savings add up. You’ll be comfortable and avoid higher energy bills and unnecessary repairs.
Investing in a high-efficiency air conditioner, maintaining your current system and using it wisely are all part of reducing your home’s carbon footprint. Don’t forget to book a licensed professional when installing or servicing your unit.
With the right energy-efficient model and smart habits, you can have cool air at home without wasting energy or money.
Please note: Thanks for reading our blog “How to Improve Air Conditioner Efficiency in 5 Easy Ways”. This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.