In India, the ownership of air conditioners is rapidly increasing, transforming from a luxury item to a common household appliance. However, with this convenience comes the concern of rising
electricity bills
. While cooling requires substantial energy, there are effective strategies to minimise costs, with one of the key aspects being the maintenance of optimal temperatures for air conditioners.
How to save electricity bill with ideal AC temperature
How does an AC work?
Contrary to popular belief, an air conditioner does not simply blow air at a preset temperature.
Instead, it functions by cooling indoor air through an evaporator coil, recirculating it after achieving the desired temperature. This process differs significantly from traditional air coolers that use outside air. Understanding this operation is crucial for optimal usage.
Understanding the thermostat
Setting a lower temperature, like 18°C (64.5°F), doesn't mean the room cools faster than if set to 25°C (77°F). The thermostat monitors the room's temperature and instructs the compressor accordingly. A lower setting prolongs the compressor's runtime, consuming more electricity. Therefore, a higher setting like 25°C (77°F) can be more energy-efficient.
Impact of compressor cycles
When the room reaches the set temperature, the compressor stops, and only the fan operates, minimising electricity usage. Some AC units also stop the fan to conserve more energy, allowing users to use a ceiling fan instead.
Factors influencing electricity consumption
Different factors that affect an AC's electricity consumption are:
- Indoor and outdoor temperatures: Larger temperature differences increase energy consumption.
- Thermal insulation: Well-insulated rooms require less cooling.
- AC temperature setting: Lower settings lead to longer compressor runtimes and higher energy usage.
A study by ACEEE indicates that increasing the
thermostat setting
by 1°C can save 3-5% on energy bills, a substantial reduction.
The ideal ‘Thermostat Setting’
ASHRAE suggests an optimal comfort temperature between 23.5°C (74.3°F) and 25.5°C (78°F) during summers. Setting the thermostat to 24°C (75.2°F) balances comfort and energy efficiency. Using ceiling fans in conjunction with ACs further enhances comfort while conserving energy.
‘Quick Cool’ option: Is it effective?
The "Quick Cool" feature sets temperatures as low as 18°C (64.5°F), consuming excessive energy to reach this level. A more moderate setting like 24°C (75.2°F) can achieve comfort with reduced electricity usage.
How do old ACs without thermostats operate?
Older air conditioner models lacking thermostats offer high, medium, and low cooling options. These settings adjust fan speeds without controlling air temperature, impacting comfort but not efficiency.
Understanding these aspects empowers users to optimise their AC usage, striking a balance between comfort and energy savings. By adopting these practices, individuals can enjoy a cool environment without inflated electricity bills.
Also read | Living on the top floor of your home without AC? Here's how you can keep your room cool
