Staying cool while keeping your energy costs down is a challenge for all of us.

There are a variety of things you can do to reduce your electricity bill – some will have an immediate effect, others may take months or even years, but all will have a positive impact.

AREMA (Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Equipment Manufacturers Association of Australia) – representing Australia’s leading air conditioning and refrigeration manufacturers – has prepared this list of tips which, if followed, will save you money and help protect the environment.

The good news is that today’s equipment is about 60 per cent more energy efficient than it was 20 years ago. This is a direct result of the Federal Government working closely with industry to mandate the improved efficiency of air conditioners.

If your air conditioner is costing you a lot to run, it might be time for an upgrade.

Here’s some useful tips that will keep you cool and save you money – particularly during those stifling summer heatwaves.

 What can you do during a heatwave?

• Only cool rooms that are being used. Installing a ducted system with zone control allows individual areas to be turned on and off as desired.  If you have ore than one air conditioner consider which rooms you will use.
• Use in-built timers to pre-cool the space before sleeping or returning from home. Using timers minimises energy output while keeping the temperature at the desired level.
• Don’t be tempted to set the temperature too low. In summer set the temperature around 23 degrees Celsius to create a comfortable environment while minimising energy consumption.
• Use built in timers to start the air conditioner earlier in the day before the temperature gets too hot. Switching the air conditioner on during the hottest part of the day means it needs to exert more energy and takes longer to cool down the home. 
• Use curtains ­– close blinds or curtains in the morning to keep the heat out and open these in the early evening as temperatures cool.
• Close doors and windows whilst the unit is on – don’t let the wonderfully cool air escape!

How do you prepare for a heatwave?

• Stop drafts – fill small gaps and cracks around windows with sealant, and seal draughts under doors with weather strips or draft stoppers This ensures cool air remains indoors.
• Have the air conditioner serviced periodically by a licensed air conditioning technician – a professional service every one to two years, depending on usage ensures the air conditioner operates as efficiently as possible.
• Clean the filters – clean the filter using a vacuum cleaner or wash with mild detergent and warm water. Let the filter dry completely before replacing. Dust along the indoor unit grilles can also be vacuumed and wiped with a damp cloth. Refer to the manufacturers operating manual on how to access and remove the filter from the indoor unit. Operating an air conditioner that is poorly maintained can also result in poor efficiency, meaning the air conditioner will need to work much harder to cool a home during the hotter months which puts pressure on energy consumption and ultimately the household budget.

How do you ensure your home is energy efficient and able to keep you cooler during a heatwave?

• Choose the correct size air conditioning system depending on the room size. Running a small unit for a large room could make the system work harder and use more energy. Discuss with a licenced air conditioning specialist
• Select a system that includes energy efficient features – using features like human sensor control, economy mode and various program timer settings can minimise energy output.
• Ensure good installation – don’t be tempted by having your brother-in-law install your air conditioner for you.  A poorly installed system can result in 30% or more increased electricity cost and a far shorter lifespan.  Only use licensed tradespeople.
• Plant trees – consider planting deciduous trees so that they shade the house in summer but let the warmth through in winter.
• Ensure your home is well insulated – a home without any insulation can make the air conditioning system work harder, by putting pressure on the unit to keep the room at the desired temperature. A well-insulated home will keep the cool air inside for longer, allowing the air conditioning system to work efficiently
• Choose well insulated windows that enable breezes – the type of windows and glass can greatly contribute to the temperature inside.  Louvres allow a breeze to flow through the home and use the outside air for cooling, particularly at night.