When purchasing a cooling unit, look for energy rating labels which contain an energy star rating. The more stars shown on the label, the more efficient the unit.
The temperature of a cooled room in summer should be about 23-26oC (remember the humidity indoors will be low, so it will feel cooler). The temperature should be checked after the air conditioner has been operating for 30 minutes.
Reverse cycle air conditioners can provide both efficient heating and cooling.
A thermostat is a major energy saving device and should be a part of your refrigerated air conditioning system " it lets you maintain a particular temperature in the room and can save up to 40% off your running costs.
Both air conditioners and evaporative coolers should be regularly maintained, including cleaning filter pads. For evaporative coolers, remove any blockages and any dust that has built up over the fan and the condenser coils at the back of the unit.
Air conditioning units should not face the sun (i.e. north or west) unless shaded and should have access to outside air (i.e. not in a garage or carport)
For maximum efficiency, set the air conditioning unit to recirculate cool air instead of pulling warmer air in from outside.
For cooling situations where you can increase room temperature by 1C, you could save up to 10 percent of operating costs
Shade 'hot' windows in summer with curtains, low eaves, awnings, shutters or trees, to reduce heat absorption by up to 80%. Heavy, lined curtains with pelmets will also trap heat in winter.
Outdoor shading of windows in summer is also most effective.
Ensure ceiling space above all airconditioned areas is insulated to a recommended 2.5R value (R Value is the standard measure of thermal resistance of any material.)
Install draught seals and weather stripping around doors and windows. This traps cool air in summer. You will need less energy to cool your home.
If the machine has adjustable louvres, adjust them towards the ceiling when cooling, and towards the floor when heating (as cool air falls, hot air rises).
When a hot day is expected, turn on the air conditioner early rather than wait till the building becomes hot (it operates more efficiently when the outside air temperature is cooler).
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