13 air conditioner mistakes that waste energy and money
Air conditioners are not only effective in facilitating cool air but also in removing excess moisture, dehumidifying the room, and removing mold and pollutants from the air. Such functions help manage asthma attacks and other respiratory conditions among those prone to these diseases. Maintaining an air conditioner is important to ensure its optimal functioning over time. With that in mind, here are 13 common mistakes to avoid that can increase energy and money wastage:
Not cleaning the coils and fins of the AC
The coils and fins of an air conditioning system help absorb heat effectively. With time, dust and grime accumulate in the air conditioner’s coils and fins, reducing its efficiency and increasing maintenance costs in the long run. Therefore, it is important to regularly clean the coils and fins of an AC, particularly when the weather is windy or stormy.
Ignoring the drain
Drains redirect accumulated water outside the premises where they are installed and prevent the development of mold and mildew. If the air conditioner’s drain gets clogged with time, it can cause severe damage to the surrounding areas, including walls and floors. One should check the AC’s drain every now and then and promptly treat any drainage issues to prevent such damage.
Lowering the AC temperature too much
Contrary to popular belief, setting the AC temperature very low does not ensure faster cooling. In fact, air conditioners require just as much energy to lower the temperature to one or two degrees as they do to lower it by 10-15 degrees. Therefore, lowering the AC temperature makes no significant difference in terms of cooling. Moreover, lowering the temperature by one unit increases energy consumption by 6 percent. So, it is more cost-effective to maintain AC temperature rather than change it frequently.
Not using ceiling or table fans
Any type of fan can considerably help with ventilation and ensure air cooling in a room.