As the sweltering heat of summer sets in, air conditioners become a lifeline to beat the heat. However, with the increasing use of air conditioners, electricity bills soar high. That’s why it’s important to learn about how you can save electricity while using your air conditioner. In this article, we’ll discuss some tips and tricks that will help you cut down on your energy consumption without compromising on comfort.
How Air Conditioners Work
To begin with, let’s understand how air conditioners work. Air conditioners work by removing hot air from the room and replacing it with cool air. They do so by passing warm air over a cold coil filled with refrigerant gas, which absorbs the heat from the air and cools it down. The cool air is then circulated back into the room.
Types of Air Conditioners
There are different types of air conditioners available in the market today – window ACs, split ACs, central ACs, portable ACs, etc. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages when it comes to power consumption.
For example, window ACs are less efficient than split or central ACs as they tend to leak more cool air outside.
Window Type AC
Window-type air conditioners are cheaper compared to other types but consume more energy. To save electricity while using window-type ACs, make sure to choose an appropriately sized unit that matches your room size, as mentioned before. It is best practice to use the fan mode instead of the cooling mode when the temperature isn’t too high or when you’re not inside the room.
Inverter AC
Inverter technology has revolutionized energy-efficient air conditioning by offering variable speed compressors that adjust their cooling capacity based on room temperature variations. Inverter air conditioners provide better efficiency than non-inverter ones because they can vary the compressor’s speed according to cooling demand and maintain a set temperature level without turning off and on frequently.
Split-type AC
Split-type air conditioners also come in inverter and non-inverter models; they have an indoor unit (evaporator) and an outdoor unit (condenser). To save electricity while using split-type ACs, it’s important to keep the doors closed when using them so that cool air is contained within the desired area only. This will reduce the workload on your AC unit by limiting heat transfer from outside spaces into cooled areas.
Split-type AC Features
Today’s split-type air conditioners offer a range of smart features that can help you save energy and optimize your cooling experience. Some of these features include:
- Econo Mode: This feature helps you save energy by adjusting the cooling capacity of the air conditioner to match the temperature of the room.
- Sleep Mode: This feature adjusts the temperature of the air conditioner as you sleep, ensuring a comfortable and restful night’s sleep.
- Dry Mode: This mode is ideal for humid environments as it reduces the humidity in the air without affecting the temperature.
- Auto Mode: This feature automatically adjusts the temperature and fan speed based on the current temperature and humidity levels in the room.
- Timer Modes: With timer modes, you can set your air conditioner to turn on or off at specific times, allowing you to save energy and money.
- Soft Startup: This feature helps reduce the power consumption of the air conditioner by gradually increasing the power output.
- Smart Protections: Split-type air conditioners also come with various smart protections that help keep the unit running smoothly and efficiently, such as voltage protection and auto-restart after a power outage.
Power Consumption of Air Conditioners
Now let’s talk about power consumption and its impact on electricity bills. Air conditioners consume a lot of power compared to other home appliances. an air conditioner consumes a lot of electricity in the Philippines. The average air conditioner will consume around 1,500 watts of power. This means that your air conditioner will use up around 1.5 kilowatts of power every hour that it is running.
Energy-Saving Tips for Air Conditioners
Importance of selecting the right size and type of air conditioner
It’s important to select the right size and type of air conditioner for your room. Choosing an air conditioner that is too small for the room will result in the AC having to work harder to cool down the room, leading to higher energy consumption.
Choosing an oversized AC for a small room will lead to unnecessary energy waste. Therefore, make sure to choose an appropriately sized AC that matches your room’s size.
Use of ceiling fans to supplement air conditioning
Another effective way to reduce energy consumption is by supplementing your air conditioning with ceiling fans. Ceiling fans do not consume as much power as air conditioners and can help circulate cool air throughout the room. This way, you can reduce the workload on your AC while staying comfortable.
Importance of regularly cleaning and maintaining air filters
Regular cleaning and maintenance of air filters also play a significant role in reducing energy consumption. Dirty filters block the airflow in your AC unit, which forces it to work harder and consume more power. It is best practice to clean or replace your filter once every two weeks during peak usage months.
Use of programmable and smart thermostats to control temperature and save energy
The use of programmable thermostats or smart thermostats is another great way to control temperature and save energy while using an air conditioner. These devices allow you to set specific temperatures depending on time of day, occupancy, etc., enabling you to avoid overcooling when no one is at home or when sleeping.
Avoid direct sunlight
Last but not least, shading windows from direct sunlight can significantly decrease heat gain inside the building resulting in less workload on ACs thereby consuming less energy.
Set the right temp
Set your thermostat to 25-27 degrees Celsius: A small adjustment in temperature can result in significant savings on your monthly bill.
Switch off when no one is using it
Turn off your AC when no one is home: This will help you avoid unnecessary power consumption.
Use timer settings efficiently
Schedule start times & duration of use as per occupancy schedule i.e., turn off automatically after certain hours or switch off once the desired temperature has been reached.
Popular 1 HP Window-type Air Conditioners in the Philippines
Panasonic CW-XS108VPH
The Panasonic CW-XS108VPH is considered one of the best 1HP inverter air conditioners in the market. Although it is an older model, it is still a popular choice due to its durability and efficiency. The dual fan machine has an EER (KJ/HW) of 11.8 and uses R410a refrigerant. The air conditioner measures 560 x 375 x 700 in size. It is priced affordably and should be at the top of your list if you’re on a tight budget.
Panasonic CW-XU1021VPH
The Panasonic CW-XU1021VPH is an upgraded version of the CW-XS108VPH. The air conditioner is more compact, efficient, and has a dual DC fan motor. It also comes with the NanoE standard and has an autofan speed setting. The EER (KJ/HW) of the air conditioner is 12.4, and it uses R32 refrigerant. The air conditioner measures 560 x 346 x 655 in size and is priced at 31k.
LG LA100GC
The LG LA100GC is a compact unit with a lot of features. It comes with WiFi, Dry Mode, and even Sleep Mode that are standard in split-type air conditioners. It has an EER (KJ/HW) of 11.1 and uses R32 refrigerant. The air conditioner measures 497 x 317 x 623 in size and has a 0.75HP sibling available for smaller rooms. The efficiency of the air conditioner is lower than other models in the market, but it is still a great value for its price.
LG LA100EL
The LG LA100EL is a full-sized unit that has high-efficiency values. The air conditioner comes with WiFi, Dry Mode, and Sleep Modes. The EER (KJ/HW) of the air conditioner is 12.42, and it uses R32 refrigerant. The air conditioner measures 600 x 380 x 630 in size and has a great value despite not having an auto air swing feature.
Koppel KV09WR-ARF31
The Koppel KV09WR-ARF31 is a homegrown air conditioner that is a rebadged Midea FP-51ARA010HEIV-N4. It has a modified touch panel, IR receiver, and front grille. It is more expensive than the Midea units but is more powerful on paper and should be sized like a conventional unit. The EER (KJ/HW) of the air conditioner is 13.5, and it uses R32 refrigerant. The air conditioner measures 560 x 400 x 670 in size, and it’s essential to note that parts from Koppel can be very expensive.
Tip:
When choosing a 1HP inverter air conditioner, it is essential to consider your needs and preferences. Each model we have discussed has unique features and specifications that make them stand out in the market.
How Can Saving Electricity with an Air Conditioner Help with Budget Management for Filipino Families?
Saving electricity with an air conditioner is crucial for mastering budget management strategies for Filipino families. By using energy-efficient settings and maintaining the AC unit, it can lead to significant cost savings on electricity bills, allowing families to allocate more funds towards other essential expenses.
Basic and Standard 1HP Split-Type Inverters
Let’s take a closer look at the basic and standard 1HP split-type inverters that are worthy of checking out in the market.
Daikin FTKP25TV 1.0HP Split-Type Inverter Air Conditioner
Daikin’s FTKP25TV 1.0HP Split-Type Inverter Air Conditioner is a basic and standard unit that comes with a range of features to ensure optimal cooling and energy efficiency. This unit is equipped with Daikin’s patented streamer technology, which removes allergens and other harmful particles from the air. It also comes with an Econo Mode, Sleep Mode, and Auto Mode, making it a great choice for those looking for a reliable and energy-efficient air conditioner.
Panasonic CS-S10VKH-1 1.0HP Split-Type Inverter Air Conditioner
The Panasonic CS-S10VKH-1 1.0HP Split-Type Inverter Air Conditioner is another basic and standard unit that comes with a range of features to ensure optimal cooling and energy efficiency. This unit is equipped with Panasonic’s nanoe-G technology, which removes harmful particles from the air and keeps the air clean and fresh. It also comes with a Sleep Mode, Dry Mode, and Auto Mode, making it a great choice for those looking for a reliable and energy-efficient air conditioner.
LG HSN09ISM 1.0HP Split-Type Inverter Air Conditioner
The LG HSN09ISM 1.0HP Split-Type Inverter Air Conditioner is a basic and standard unit that comes with a range of features to ensure optimal cooling and energy efficiency. This unit is equipped with LG’s Dual Inverter Compressor, which provides faster and more efficient cooling. It also comes with a Sleep Mode, Dry Mode, and Auto Mode, making it a great choice for those looking for a reliable and energy-efficient air conditioner.
Split-type air conditioners have come a long way from their chunky cooling box predecessors. Today’s units offer a range of smart features that can help you save energy and optimize your cooling experience.
FAQs:
How does an air conditioner consume electricity?
Air conditioners consume electricity by first compressing the refrigerant gas, which requires a lot of energy. The refrigerant gas then gets cooled down using a heat exchanger, and the cooled gas passes through an expansion valve. This process repeats itself until the desired temperature is achieved. The size, age, and type of air conditioning unit also affect the electricity consumption of the unit. By understanding how air conditioners consume electricity, you can take steps to reduce your energy consumption and save money on your electricity bill.
What is the best aircon mode to save electricity?
High electricity bills from air conditioning can be a significant financial burden. The best aircon mode to save electricity is the energy-saving mode. This mode reduces the compressor speed, which lowers the amount of energy needed to cool the room. Another effective mode to save electricity is the sleep mode, which gradually adjusts the temperature while you sleep, so you don’t use too much energy while you sleep. Both modes are effective in reducing electricity consumption and can save you money on your electricity bill. For example, using the energy-saving mode can reduce your electricity consumption by up to 20%, while using the sleep mode can save you up to 30% on your electricity bill.
How many hours to use inverter aircon to save electricity?
Inverter air conditioners are an excellent choice for saving electricity, as they adjust their cooling capacity according to the room’s temperature. Compared to regular air conditioners, inverter air conditioners can save up to 30% on your electricity bill. It is recommended to use an inverter air conditioner for at least 8 hours a day to save electricity. This ensures that the room is kept at a constant temperature without consuming too much energy. For example, using an inverter air conditioner for 8 hours a day can save you up to 40% on your electricity bill compared to using a regular air conditioner for the same amount of time.
Do note that it doesn’t mean the longer you use the AC, the more savings. Your savings being the moment your inverter air conditioner reaches the target temperature and the compressor slows down.
Final Thoughts
By implementing these tips and tricks, you can reduce your electricity bills significantly while enjoying optimal comfort levels. It is also important to remember that reducing energy consumption helps preserve our natural resources and protects the environment from the negative impacts of excessive energy usage.
So don’t wait any longer! Start implementing these tips today to save on your monthly electricity bill without sacrificing comfort. With a little bit of effort and consideration towards energy-saving practices not only will you save money but also contribute towards preserving nature for future generations.