3 Common AC Mistakes That Make Electricity Bills Increase

Common Mistakes in Using AC that Increase Electricity Bills

The use of AC is increasingly becoming a primary necessity amidst the ever-increasing heat wave. Even though it provides convenience, improper use can cause electricity bills to increase without you realizing it. With a few simple adjustments, you can increase your AC’s efficiency and save energy.

Not Using Window Kits Properly

One mistake that is often made is not installing the window kit correctly. This kit is designed to create a seal between the window and the exhaust hose, so hot air can be vented efficiently. If not installed properly or even bypassed altogether, hot air will leak back into the room, forcing the AC to work harder than usual.

“You should always use the window kit correctly and make sure the window is closed tightly so as not to damage the overall performance of the AC unit,” says Katie Lilywhite, air care expert with AO.com. Make sure the kit seals gaps around the hose tightly and creates an effective barrier between indoors and outdoors. Take the time to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when installing the window kit.

Not Cleaning the Air Filter Regularly

The air filter on a portable AC functions to capture dust, pet dander, and other particles. However, if it is not cleaned regularly, the filter will become clogged and air flow will be limited. This forces the AC to work harder to cool the room, which ultimately increases energy consumption.

“The air conditioner has to work twice as hard to draw air, which uses more power, and it doesn’t even work well,” says Katie. Cleaning the filter every two weeks by rinsing it under cold tap water and letting it dry completely is a simple step that is very effective.

Setting the Temperature Too Low

Many people tend to set the AC temperature too low, thinking that this will cool the room faster. However, most air conditioners run at a consistent speed regardless of how low the thermostat is set. What happens is that the AC unit continues to run longer than it should, consuming more electricity than necessary.

Chris Michael, Chairman of Meaco, recommends setting the air conditioner to a temperature between 22 degrees Celsius to 24 degrees Celsius during the summer. This makes the AC work efficiently, turning on and off as needed, rather than constantly being on.

Practical Tips for Reducing Energy Consumption

Apart from setting the right temperature, you can also install the best fan or close the curtains during the hottest weather. These steps can help the room feel cooler without needing to turn on the AC to maximum.

How to Prevent a Room from Getting Too Hot

Chris also provides some tips to prevent a room from getting too hot in the first place:

• Open all the doors and windows in the house after sunset to cool the room again. This can also be done in the morning to remove excess hot air.
• Cool the room first before going to bed if cooling the bedroom, then use the AC in fan mode overnight. This makes the AC much quieter while you sleep.

By avoiding these three common mistakes, you can maintain the comfort of your room while saving on electricity costs.