With scorching summer sun battering Bangladesh, air conditioning has become a necessity more than a luxury. Without it, both efficiency and productivity suffer significantly. The high temperatures not only affect physical well-being but also take a toll on mental health.
Even those without access to air conditioning are prioritizing saving up to buy one, desperate to protect themselves from the oppressive heat. However, the hefty bills that come with air conditioning often overshadow the relief it provides, creating a financial burden.
Here are some ways one can save money with smart AC consumption.
Seal any gaps
Closing your door and windows is the first thing you do when you turn the AC on. Apart from that, make sure there are no gaps or leaks in the room. The gap beneath doors may seem tiny but cold air could rapidly escape through it.
To prevent this, a draft stopper or door sweep can be installed along the bottom of the door. These are typically made of foam, rubber, or fabric and effectively block air from entering or exiting the room.
Cover your windows
While we do close our windows, we hardly close the curtains during the daytime. Blinds or curtains should be closed. The sunlight works great for reducing the bill that comes from using tube lights or bulbs, but more heat is being entrapped which causes the air conditioner to work harder to cool the room and consume more electricity.
During summer, approximately 76% of sunlight that reaches windows is converted into heat, as reported by the US Department of Energy.
Keep heating objects away
Air conditioning systems typically rely on a thermostat to regulate the temperature of the room. The thermostat detects the current temperature and signals the air conditioner to turn on or off accordingly to maintain the desired temperature setting.
When heat-generating appliances such as televisions, computers, or refrigerators are placed near the thermostat, it registers a higher temperature than the actual temperature of the room.
Therefore, what happens is the thermostat incorrectly senses that the room is warmer than it actually is, leading it to signal the air conditioner to run for longer or at a higher intensity than necessary.
Servicing
During periods of inactivity like in winter, dust and debris accumulate within the unit, hampering its performance once it is back in use. This buildup forces the air conditioner to exert extra energy to cool the room, resulting in higher electricity bills. Neglected units are likely to break down and the repairs will cost you way more than regular servicing does.
Make sure to take out and clean the filter with a washcloth at least once every two months. This way, proper airflow and indoor air quality will be ensured. This extends the lifespan of the air conditioning system, ultimately saving money in the long run.
Other tips and tricks
Every degree counts. Many experts recommend setting the AC to 25-27°C for optimal comfort and energy savings. There is no reason to set the temperature at 16°C. Allow your AC some time to cool the room. Keep the ceiling fan turned on to create a windchill effect.
You can keep indoor plants to keep your house naturally cool. Remember to set up a timer for the AC when you go to sleep or else the AC might be running the whole night, generating a big electricity bill for the household.
Lastly, if you are purchasing a new AC or upgrading any units, go for energy-efficient models, which can lead to long-term savings on electricity bills.
