Quick tips for choosing an energy efficient air conditioner

Energy efficient air conditioning helps you save on energy bills – The Good Guys.

Choosing the most energy efficient air conditioner

Did you know that heating and cooling appliances can use up to 40% of your household energy? It’s important that you do your research before buying one as choosing an energy efficient air conditioner will help you save on energy bills.

Energy Rating
When shopping for an air conditioning for your home, make sure you check the energy star rating before making a purchase. More stars = higher energy efficiency rating = more savings.
Consumption
The air conditioning star rating label normally includes the energy consumption figure, which tells you the expected energy use in kilowatt/hour per year, so you can easily compare different models and choose an air conditioner that uses the least amount of energy.
Suits the Space
  • To avoid buying a model that’s unsuitable for the space, it is recommended that you seek professional advice and calculate the cooling load using an online calculator to work out your cooling requirements before deciding on a model.
  • Buying an air conditioning that’s unsuitable for the space would mean the room won’t cool properly or energy will be wasted.
  • Bigger isn’t always best – a big air conditioner in a small room uses more power turning on and off than a small unit running for longer.
  • For small rooms less than 20sqm, a portable unit works well, but this air conditioning model doesn’t suit larger rooms.
  • For rooms less than 50sqm, a window wall unit is sufficient, but these model is less energy efficient than a fixed split system.
  • For areas larger than 50sqm, a split system air conditioner is the best option.
Controls
  • A thermostat and/ or a timer gives you the ability to control the room temperature for maximum comfort and bill savings.
  • The thermostat should be located in a frequently used room, away from the heating and cooling unit.
  • Some air conditioning models automatically switch off when the desired temperature has been reached to save energy.
  • Each extra degree of air conditioning can increase the running cost by up to 10%, so set the thermostat at the highest comfortable temperature to minimise energy use and maximise your bill savings.
Cycles & Options

Fans

  • Some models can heat and cool to keep you comfortable all year long.
  • Portable desktop, floor, tower, or table models can easily be moved from room to room, whereas the fixed fans are installed in ceilings or walls.
  • Compare the power consumption figure and air flow rate of different fans to help you select the most energy efficient unit.

Air Conditioners

  • A portable air conditioning is the easiest model to install – just plug it in to a power socket, install the venting hose using the window kit and regularly empty the water condenser. Single duct portables work well in most rooms, however the portable split systems are more effective and efficient.
  • A window/ wall unit is normally fitted into an external wall hole or place on a window sill.
  • A split system air conditioning provides the most energy efficient cooling solution and can be floor or wall mounted. It’s very quiet as the compressor is placed outside up to 15 metres away. Multiple split systems give you the ability to run multiple units using one compressor. Reverse cycle split systems have cooling and heating modes for low cost, optimum home comfort all year long.
Did you know?

Curtains should be closed when cooling to stop sunlight heating up the room .

Remember

Air conditioning should be off when nobody’s home to stop energy wastage

Did you know?

Cooling and heating uses the most energy in a home

Remember

Appliances have two costs – the purchase price and ongoing running cost

Did you know?

Cooling and heating use up to 40% of your household energy, so with rising energy costs, energy efficient cooling will save you money

Remember

Energy efficient cooling is eco-friendly and reduces your energy bills

Did you know?

Putting a bowl of water in front of the fan creates an extra cooling effect

Remember

An energy efficient appliance + using it wisely = ultra low utility bills

View The Good Guys Air Conditioning Guide for everything you need to know about choosing the right air conditioner for your home.
View The Good Guys Air Conditioner Buying Guide for helpful tips on selecting the best air conditioning for your needs
View The Good Guys huge air conditioning range to learn more about important features that help you save on power bills