Australian families using these simple airconditioning hacks could be reducing their electricity bills by as much as 37 per cent, new research reveals.
As it starts to heat up and Aussies get ready to enter the summer months, there’s nothing worse than avoiding using the air conditioner in fear of a sky-high bill.
But Aussies can keep their homes cool without the fear of blowing their bill out with these energy efficient changes, an expert reveals.
In New South Wales, the average power bill is about $434 per quarter, according to Finder.
That jumped to $463 in South Australia, $422 in Queensland and dipped to $367 in Victoria, with the cheapest in Western Australia at $301.
Colin Jones, category expert at Appliances Online, said setting airconditioning at the perfect temperature and choosing the best unit could save you thousands of dollars in energy bills in the long run.
Switching to a more energy efficient air conditioner could be saving an average Australian between $800-$900 a year on energy bills.
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“When comparing a 5 star to a 2.5 star split system, by upgrading to a more efficient split system, you could reduce your energy bills by around 37 per cent,” he said.
“These newer (airconditioning units) use inverter technology and are achieving 6 or higher Star Energy Ratings, which are able to save the consumer 30 to 50 per cent in energy use compared to the older compressors.”
Setting the right temperature can also make a world of difference to how much your bill comes to by the end of the quarter.
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Even one degree of extra cooling or heating could increase your electricity usage by up to 10 per cent, according to Mr Jones.
“In summer, don’t set the air conditioner at the lowest temperature, making it feel like you have walked directly into a freezer,” he said.
The most efficient and ideal temperature is to set between 24-26 degrees, Mr Jones said.
In winter, it is best set between 18-21 degrees, depending on how cold your climate is.
There are also little-known rebates you can claim in each state if you buy an energy efficient air conditioner, Mr Jones added.
In NSW, you can get a discount of up to $560 if you replace and old air conditioner with a new 6kW split system.
If you’re building or renovating your home, Mr Jones suggested not only insulating the ceiling, but the wall cavities too.
“This not only prevents heat and cool escaping, but will retain a better living environment inside, saving you a huge amount of energy loss throughout the winter and summer months.”
Choosing the right size system was also important.
“Buying a split system that is too small just to save money won’t work. For example, if the area is 50 metres square and you buy a 4.5kW unit because it was on sale, it won’t reach the desired temperature,” he said.
“The air conditioner will only cool part of the area and will keep running non-stop, which increases your energy costs.”
The right airconditioning unit and temperature can make all the difference.
Mr Jones said by multiplying the total area by 0.15, this will provide you with a kilowatt size to suit the area.
Other energy efficient ways to keep your house cool including closing blinds in both summer and winter, will assist in maintaining a constant temperature.
“Close off areas that are not being used, as there is no use heating or cooling rooms that are not being used as well as using fans to assist moving the cool air around the house.
“Most fans today use little power with huge added benefits.”
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