Summer is just around the corner, and it's going to be a hot one. That means the air-conditioner is going to be working overtime, and you're likely to suffer "bill shock" when the electricity bill comes in.
Did you know that heating and cooling make up 40% of the average Australian home's electricity consumption? So, imagine how much power you're consuming during the middle of a hot Aussie summer!
Here are a few tips that you can easily follow to help manage the running costs of your air-conditioner over the summer:
Quick Summary – 10 Smart Ways to Save on Air-Con Costs
- Clean filters monthly for airflow.
- Use dry mode and set thermostat to 24–26 °C.
- Add a fan and seal gaps to stay cooler for less.
- Run timers and avoid heat sources during the day.
- Improve insulation and book a professional clean for long-term savings.
1. Clean the Filters
It sounds like common sense, but you'd be surprised by the number of clogged-up dirty filters we come across with our air-conditioner cleaning services.
A blocked filter restricts airflow, forcing your system to work harder and use more power.
If you have a split system, remove the filter and vacuum it first. Then wash it with warm, soapy water, rinse with clean water, and dry completely before reinstalling.
If you have a ducted system, remove the filter from the intake grate in the ceiling and give it a thorough vacuum.
2. Run the Air-Conditioner on Dry Mode
Dry Mode works like a dehumidifier, removing moisture from the air. Reducing humidity can make a 26°C room feel noticeably cooler, especially in coastal areas.
It also uses less electricity than Cool Mode, so switch to the water drop symbol on your remote instead of the snowflake when the weather’s humid.
3. Set the Thermostat Purposefully
Aim for a temperature of 24-26°C. This range is comfortable for most people and energy-efficient.
Every degree below 24°C can add up to 10% to your power bill - an expensive habit over summer.
4. Use Timers and Smart Controls
Don’t let your air conditioner run longer than needed. Use built-in timers or smart plugs to:
-
Turn off automatically after you’ve gone to bed.
-
Turn on shortly before you arrive home.
You’ll stay comfortable when it matters most, without wasting energy while you’re out or asleep.
5. Pre-Cool Your Home Strategically
Run your air conditioner earlier in the morning before outside temperatures climb.
This helps stabilise the indoor temperature so your system doesn’t have to work as hard during the afternoon heat.
Close curtains and blinds before the sun hits to keep your home naturally cooler.
6. Use a Fan Alongside Your Air Conditioner
Fans use minimal energy and help distribute cool air evenly across the room.
Try setting your air conditioner a few degrees higher and turning on a ceiling or pedestal fan — you’ll stay just as comfortable while using less electricity.
7. Close Doors, Blinds, and Fill Gaps
By keeping the heat out and the cool air in, your air conditioner doesn't need to work as hard. It's easy to underestimate the benefit of door snakes that stop the cool air from escaping under the door. Ensuring your doors and windows are tightly sealed keeps the heat where it belongs – outside.
Don't forget to pull down the blinds or close the drapes. Creating a barrier against the sun's rays will give your air conditioner a chance to keep the room cool without having to overload the compressor.
8. Limit Indoor Heat Sources
Every little bit of heat adds to the load on your aircon. Try to cook outdoors on the BBQ, use the microwave instead of the oven, or run your dishwasher and clothes dryer in the evening. Switching to LED lighting also helps reduce unnecessary heat indoors.
9. Improve Insulation and Shading
Insulation isn’t just for winter, it also keeps your home cooler in summer. A well-insulated roof stops heat from getting in, so your aircon doesn’t have to work as hard.
Shading helps too. Use awnings, a pergola, or even plant trees near sunny windows to block direct heat. The less heat that enters, the less energy (and money) you’ll spend keeping cool.
10. Professional Cleaning
If you've tried these steps and your split system still isn't doing the job, professional air conditioner cleaning might be your best option. Cleaning the condenser fins under high pressure, as well as the barrel fan and the external condenser, can increase cooling performance by up to 4 degrees.
Professional cleaning will also remove bacteria and mould that develop over time in air conditioner units for a cleaner, healthier home.
Final Thoughts
These simple changes can make a big difference to your comfort and your power bill.
A clean, efficient air conditioner doesn’t just cool better — it costs less to run.
Stay cool, save money, and if your unit needs a deeper clean, call Electrodry Air Conditioner Cleaning on 13 27 13 or book online today.
