The summer is just around the corner and with it comes soaring electricity bills. This year, heatwaves in Australia are predicted to be more intense than ever before, meaning that air conditioner use will probably spike. If you want to reduce your AC bill this summer, read on below.
Here, we’ve put together ways that will help you cut down on your energy use and lower your bills, all without compromising the coolness of your home.
1. Install a ceiling fan or two in your home to circulate air
Summer has finally arrived in Australia. The days are longer and the nights are warmer, so it’s time to turn up your air conditioning system for a few months. But if you’re looking to cut down on your energy bill this summer, then one of the best ways is to install a ceiling fan or two in your home.
Ceiling fans can help circulate air around the room, which can make rooms feel 3-5 degrees cooler, without having to use as much electricity from your cooling unit. This means that you’ll save money on not only your cooling bill; but also by using less power from other appliances like televisions and lamps throughout the house.
2. Open up the windows on opposite sides of the house to get cross-ventilation
It’s the height of summer and it’s time to get your air conditioning bill under control. It might seem counterintuitive, but one of the most effective ways to do this is by opening up windows on opposite sides of your house. This will create a cross-ventilation and help balance out the temperature in your home.
Opening your windows on the opposite side can increase airflow throughout the home, which can reduce humidity levels which can lead to lower power consumption for cooling. You’ll also be able to enjoy more natural light, decrease noise pollution from outside traffic, and you’ll also cut down on pollen entering your home. What a win right?
3. Purchase an air conditioner with a high SEER rating for energy efficiency
Before you buy an air conditioner to help you combat the summer heat, ask yourself if this energy-efficient option will save you money. If you want to purchase a new air conditioner for your home but don’t know which one to get, there are two things to consider: price and efficiency.
For starters, make sure that you purchase an air conditioner with a high SEER rating for energy efficiencies such as Daikin, Panasonic, or Fujitsu.
An AC unit’s SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) tells us how much of its rated cooling capacity will be saved in comparison to an older model or standard unit. The higher the number on the SEER scale, the more efficient it is.
4. Close curtains or blinds to keep out sunlight and heat during the day
Close your curtains or blinds to keep out sunlight and heat during the day. This can reduce your air conditioning bill this summer. Whatever you decide, make sure it’s heavy enough to block light from seeping in through the cracks.
The sun is hot and bright outside, but if there are gaps between your curtains then all that heat will flow into your home. If it’s too flimsy, use tape or sticky putty to hold them together for extra insulation. You’ll be happy when you get your next energy bill.
5. Use natural light whenever possible
This summer, try to use natural light whenever possible instead of turning on the lights. Although it may be difficult during peak sun hours, there are plenty of times throughout the day when you can take advantage of the cool breeze, and let Mother Nature do some work for you.
By using natural light in place of lights, which can contribute to the heat in your home, you can save money on their ac bill this summer.
6. Switch off electrical appliances you’re not using
To help you stay cool and save on your air conditioning bill this summer, switch off electrical appliances like TVs, computers, and lights when they’re not in use. These electrical appliances can add up to the heat in your home, which can make cooling your home hard for your air conditioning unit.
So, switching them off, especially when not in use, is a great way to cut down your air conditioning bill this summer. Not only will you save on the electricity bill but also have a more comfortable living space.
If you want to reduce your electric usage, even more, turn down the thermostat at night, or during times of day when nobody is home to avoid unnecessary heating or cooling.
7. Keep your thermostat set at 22-24 degrees celsius
Another big help in saving your air conditioning bill this summer is, by keeping your thermostat set at 22-24 degrees celsius to maintain a comfortable temperature in the house. Often, most homeowners tend to crank up their AC’s thermostat to cool their home.
What most homeowners don’t realise is that doing it means your cooling unit will work double-time, which requires more energy to operate. This will lead your energy consumption to blow up, as well as your electrical bill.
Keeping your thermostat set at 22-24 degrees celsius in summer can save you up to 20% on your ac bill. Whether you’re a tenant or homeowner, this simple change could make a huge difference in your air conditioning bills this summer.
Conclusion
With just a few simple changes like closing curtains blinds during the day, keeping windows shut in rooms without airflow, using fans along with air conditioning units, and keeping your thermostat at the ideal degree during summer, you can save hundreds on electricity bills over time.
Keep your air conditioning system maintained by a qualified technician in Clontarf, Balmoral, Bribie Island, Bulimba, Green Slopes, Hawthorne, Morningside, Noosa, North Brisbane, North Lakes, Redcliffe, South Brisbane, and North Lakes today.
Talk to us. We can help you.