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How to reduce your AC usage in summer

By Kevin Kelly

With heatwaves a common occurrence in Australia, we're always looking for ways to beat the heat in summer. Here's a handy guide to help you minimise AC usage in your Bunbury property.

1. Keep your air conditioning unit out of the sun

Keeping your AC unit in the shade will mean it won't have to work as hard to cool the air around it. So, placing your AC unit  away from the sun, preferably on the north side of the house, is a great idea. If this isn't possible, planting trees or shrubbery around it is a good alternative. This will also spruce up your property and provide your garden with shade on sunny days.

2. Maintain your air conditioner

Make sure you regularly clean and replace your AC unit's filters. Consider switching to a high-efficiency air conditioner – systems using advanced designs can reduce your AC's energy usage by up to 40 per cent, according to the Australian government. 

3. Use fans

Fans circulate air around a room, creating a great cooling effect at the fraction of the price of AC. On milder days you can turn your air con off completely and just use fans. On warmer days, the Australian government says that using a fan strategically alongside your AC allows you to increase your thermostat setting by 3°Celsius without making you feel any warmer. Remember to turn your fan off when you leave the room though, as they only cool people, not rooms.

4. Turn off appliances that release heat

Lights, ovens, washing machines, computers – they all give off heat. Consider instead using the microwave during the hottest hours of the day, or grill outside (any excuse for a barbie!). Likewise, try to only use your washing machine and dishwasher after 8pm. Switching to energy saving light-bulbs or LEDs will also help to reduce the temperature of your home, as well as helping you save on electricity bills. 

5. Seal your home

Stop cool air escaping and warm air coming in by ensuring your windows and doors are sealed properly. On cooler nights, keep windows open to let as much fresh air in as possible. This will also help your fan work better, as it won't just be circulating stale air.

As you can see, there are loads of ways to reduce your AC usage, so you don't have to worry about big summer bills when you make Bunbury your home.

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