There is always a great debate on what the right air temperature is throughout the year.
It can be difficult to keep comfortable through the shifting seasons without constantly adjusting the settings. The ideal setting varies depending on the orientation of your home, design, available space, and insulation.
Heating and cooling can be one of the biggest energy users and have high purchase and running costs. So how can you keep cool or stay warm without breaking the budget?
Here’s a breakdown on what air temperature is best for comfort, and tips to keep your electricity bills low:
Ideal air temperature all year round
Most Australians make the mistake of setting their air temperature too low in summer and too high in winter. These drastic temperatures can push your electricity bills through the roof, increase pressure on your air conditioning system, and decreasing its lifespan.
However, the environment we surround ourselves in also has a strong impact upon our health, including adding risk of potential breathing difficulties and respiratory issues. So, it is important to find the ideal temperature to maintain comfort and stay healthy.
Studies show that the ideal air temperature is between 21 and 23 degrees Celsius. This may vary depending on the season, climate and your surroundings.
When working out the ideal air conditioner settings for your household, keep in mind that air conditioners should help to provide a relaxed and liveable environment, which is different for each person. However, it’s important to remember the best optimal temperature is one that balances between cost and comfort.
Tips for running your air conditioner economically
1.Maintaining temperature settings
Adjusting your air conditioner settings to the recommended temperature will allow you to enjoy yourself within a comfortable environment with a lower electricity bill, and reduce greenhouse emissions.
2. Regular service and repairs
Ensuring your air conditioner remains in good condition will also reduce costs. Clogged filters, blocked ducts and old parts will lower the air flow efficiency and further strain the condition of your system.
3. Energy efficient air conditioner
Choosing an energy efficient air conditioner with the blue and red star rating is another way to avoid breaking the bank. Always check this label. The blue star rating determines the energy efficiency when cooling and the red star when heating. Choosing an energy efficient machine may be more costly upfront, but the investment will lead to significant savings over time.
4. Use of timers on your air conditioner
The use of a timer can help optimise efficiency and save money. Using a timer means you can set the system to turn on before you wake up/arrive home – meaning there’s no need to crank it up to heat or cool the home in a rush – which can be a huge drain on energy.
Need more advice on how to manage the air temperature for your home?
