As the temperatures start to rise, the question arises: when should you turn on your air conditioning? At Heat Cool Service, we know that people can struggle to get their air conditioning system to cool their homes when they need it most! Deciding when to turn on your AC impacts both your comfort and energy bills. So, we’ve gathered our expert advice and provided the essential tips on when to use your AC. If you’re trying to stay cool whilst minding your energy consumption or want to enjoy an icy cool indoor environment at all costs, these guidelines will help you get the most out of your AC over the Summer.
What to consider before turning on your air conditioning
The indoor and outdoor temperatures significantly influence the effectiveness of your AC. These are key considerations for achieving a consistently cool home throughout the day. Sometimes running your AC all day saves you money in comparison to turning it on when it reaches peak temperatures outside. Which AC system you have also determines when to turn your cooling on and off. Inverter Technology uses the thermostat to adjust power consumption based on room temperature. When you don’t have this technology you’ll need to manually monitor room temperature with a thermometer, or simply guess based on the weather forecast and time of day!
Indoor Temperature
The indoor temperature is the first thing to consider before turning on your AC. It’s crucial to evaluate how warm it is inside your home. Start by finding a thermometer and measuring the temperature in different rooms. This will give you a clear picture of the overall warmth and help you decide if it’s time to cool things down.
If the indoor temperature is already approaching an uncomfortable level, for instance, above 27°C, it’s a sign to turn on the AC. However, if the temperature is still relatively bearable, you might want to hold off a little longer to conserve energy and save on your electricity bill. The goal here is to find the right balance between staying cool and not burning your wallet.
Outdoor Temperature
Along with the indoor temperature, it’s equally important to consider the outdoor conditions. The weather outside can significantly impact the temperature inside your home. If the outdoor temperature is soaring and the sun is blazing, it’s likely that your home will absorb some of that heat. In this scenario, it’s advisable to turn on your AC earlier to prevent your home from becoming too warm. On the other hand, if the weather is mild and there’s a cool breeze, you may be able to delay turning on your AC and rely on natural ventilation to keep your home comfortable.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is a significant concern for many homeowners. Running your AC can consume a considerable amount of energy, leading to higher bills and a larger carbon footprint. Therefore, it’s essential to prioritise energy efficiency when deciding when to turn on your AC. To be energy efficient, consider using other cooling methods before resorting to your AC. Embrace natural ventilation by opening windows in the early morning and late evening to let in cool air. Use fans to circulate air, and close the curtains during the hottest parts of the day.
Natural ventilation contributes to keeping your home comfortable without relying solely on air conditioning. However, if the outdoor temperature is extreme and the indoor temperature becomes unbearable, it’s time to turn on your AC. Just remember to set it to an energy-efficient temperature, such as 25.5°C.
Consider your air conditioning system
Depending on what AC system you have, running your AC all day could save you money in comparison to turning it on when it reaches peak temperatures outside. Ducted air conditioning systems, with Inverter Technology, adjust power consumption based on room temperature measured by a thermostat. The system consumes more power to cool effectively in hotter conditions. So, turning on the air conditioning during peak daytime temperatures may increase power use and extend cooling time.
Comfort for sweltering summer days
Turning on your AC at the right time will ensure your continuous comfort in your home. Deciding when to turn your AC on requires the consideration of the indoor temperature, evaluating outdoor conditions, prioritising energy efficiency and knowing the best strategy for your AC system. Strike a balance between staying cool and conserving energy. Enjoy a cool and comfortable home throughout those sweltering summer days.
The Heat & Cool Service Group are your trusted local cooling specialists in Geelong. Contact us for all your heating and cooling needs.
