Air conditioning is a lifesaver during those sweltering hot days when the sun feels like it’s out to fry you up. But let’s face it, cranking up the AC can lead to jaw-dropping electricity bills and running costs that can bring tears to even the toughest Aussie’s eyes. So how do we keep our homes cool and our bank accounts happy? That’s where the art of balancing comfort and energy costs comes into play.
In this guide, we’ll dive into the ins and outs of air conditioning systems, discuss the factors that affect energy costs, and provide you with a treasure trove of tips to optimise aircon usage. We’ve got you covered, from setting a new air conditioner to the right temperature to leveraging energy-saving features.
WHAT ARE AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEMS?
Picture this: It’s a scorching summer day, and the heat outside temperature already feels like a relentless wave crashing down on you. Enter air conditioning, your trusty ally against hot, sweaty discomfort. But what exactly is air conditioning?
In a nutshell, air conditioning alters the temperature, humidity, and overall air quality within a space to create a more comfortable environment. It’s like having your personal weather control system in your home or office. The magic of air conditioning lies in its ability to remove heat and moisture from the air and indoor humidity and leave you with cool, crisp, and refreshing air to breathe.
TYPES OF AIR CONDITIONERS COMMONLY USED IN RENTAL PROPERTIES
Regarding air conditioning options commonly used in rental properties, there are several types to choose from. Let’s explore some of the most popular ones:
DUCTED AIR CONDITIONING
Ducted air conditioning systems are often preferred for larger rental properties or those with multiple rooms. These systems consist of a central unit that cools and distributes the air through a series of ducts, delivering cool air to each room through vents. Ducted air conditioning offers whole-house cooling with the ability to control individual room temperatures.
SPLIT SYSTEM AIR CONDITIONING
Split-system air conditioners are popular for residential and rental properties. They consist of two main components: an indoor unit that blows cool air into the room and expels heat. Split systems are versatile and efficient. They are often installed on walls or mounted on the ceiling.
WINDOW/WALL AIR CONDITIONER
Window or wall air conditioners are compact units typically installed in a window or an opening in an external wall. They are a cost-effective option for smaller rental properties or individual rooms. These units cool the air and expel heat through the back or sides. They offer easy installation and can be a convenient solution for localised cooling.
PORTABLE AIR CONDITIONER
Portable air conditioners are versatile units that can be moved around and placed in different rooms. They typically have a ceiling fan and a vent that exhausts hot air from a window or through a wall. Portable air conditioners offer flexibility and suit tenants who cannot permanently modify the property.
Each type of air conditioner has advantages and considerations depending on the property size, layout, and individual preferences.
FACTORS AFFECTING ENERGY COSTS
Now that we’ve acquainted ourselves with the different air conditioning systems, it’s essential to understand the factors influencing energy costs. By being aware of these variables, we can make informed decisions to optimise our aircon usage and keep our energy bill in check.
OUTDOOR AND INDOOR TEMPERATURE
Outside and indoor temperatures significantly impact your air conditioning’s energy consumption. On scorching hot days, when the mercury rises, your aircon works harder to cool the air to your desired temperature. The greater the difference between outdoor and indoor temperatures, the more energy your air conditioner will consume.
Kevin Szabo Jr Plumbing 