Saving Energy when using air conditioners

There are some simple things you can do to save energy when using an air conditioner:

Install the air conditioner (or outdoor unit of a split system) on the shady side of the building (or shade the air conditioner itself); make sure the air flow around it isn't obstructed.
The temperature of a heated room in winter should be between 18-21°C while the temperature of a cooled room in summer should be about 23-26°C (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.
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).
Keep windows and doors closed when using a refrigerative air conditioners (evaporative air conditioners require some air flow). Close curtains on hot summer and days and cold winter nights. Outdoor shading of windows in summer is most effective.
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).
Follow the manufacturer's instructions for filter cleaning.

This page last modified 27 June 2007