Tip 1: Find the right unit for your lifestyle
There are numerous air conditioning units to choose from, and it is important to consider your lifestyle and the configuration of your home, as ensuring you have the appropriate home heating system type is a vital step in minimising energy wastage this winter season. Low-cost and easy-to-install wall-mounted split systems are a fantastic option for heating commonly used spaces, such as the living room or bedroom, rather than paying to heat the whole home. Split system air conditioners are popular air conditioner types that offer efficiency and targeted heating solutions.
Alternatively, a ducted air conditioning system might be the way to go if you require heating throughout the whole house. Divide the home into zones and use a zone controller to save energy and money by only air conditioning the section of your home you need to. Shut off areas that are not being used and direct the air conditioning to where it is required.
Tip 2: Make the most of being at home
If you’re at home working in one room and the kids are in the other, it is easy to fall into the trap of running your heating all day. Minimise this by switching it to 20 minutes before getting up in the morning. Once you’ve nailed the morning routine of breakfast and getting ready, switch the heating off, as the warm air will remain for a couple of hours as the day progresses. Try getting outdoors at lunchtime; the exercise should keep you warm until mid-afternoon. Remember to keep doors and windows closed, too.
Open blinds, shutters, and curtains during the day to make the most of any available sunlight and help warm the house. Close them again as the sun sets to keep the heat in.
Do you have security or bushfire shutters? Closing them at night can help minimise heating loss as outside temperatures drop.
Tip 3: Buy Smart
Buy smart with air conditioning units that are expandable with optional Wi-Fi control. Connect your air conditioner to your smartphone or tablet and get the freedom to fully control each unit on the go, from almost anywhere, using an internet connection. Ideal if you have popped out for exercise or a trip to the grocery store and then realise that you have forgotten to switch off your heating.
Similarly, on a cold day, you can switch on heating on your way home, so your place is toasty for your arrival. Wi-Fi control also allows for you to program the air conditioner to turn on/off at certain times or when it reaches a specific temperature, ensuring your home is always at a comfortable temperature.
Tip 4: Look at energy efficiency
Energy bills will likely increase if you are at home with your family all day. Ensuring appliances are at their most efficient can help minimise those costs. Take a look at when your air conditioner was installed and compare efficiencies online.
Reverse cycle air conditioning, specifically models with a higher efficiency rating, produces more heat output using less energy input than any other forms of heating. A medium-sized reverse cycle air conditioner has an average hourly running cost of 48 cents, meaning 500 hours costs around $238, whereas a medium gas heater costs approximately $300. So, it truly pays to invest and do your research when it comes to major home appliances.
New systems also offer innovative features, making them much more practical and cost-effective. Selective zone heating, for instance, will direct heat into the rooms where it is most needed. Alternatively, a multi-split air conditioning system (one outdoor unit connected with 2 to 8 indoor units) can heat a whole home. Only use the indoor units in the rooms you want to heat.
Tip 5: Regular system maintenance
Regular maintenance will improve the performance and extend the life of your existing home air conditioning system. To ensure your system is operating with maximum efficiency, clean your unit as instructed by the manufacturer and have it serviced regularly.
If you are looking for a new system, look for easy-clean features that allow hassle-free maintenance between servicing. For example, Mitsubishi Electric Dual Barrier Coating is designed to reduce dust and greasy dirt from collecting in the unit, providing long-lasting protection to the heat exchanger, fan, and air ducts.
Talk to an air conditioning technician to organise a service to keep ducted air conditioning systems running efficiently. The service should include cleaning the return air filter, checking the drain pump and lines, and checking the electrical points. The manufacturer of your air conditioning can refer you to a qualified service technician.
Tip 6: Seek out the right advice
Several factors can affect your unit’s performance and cost-effectiveness, including windows, sunlight, and electronics in the home. For example, split system ACs and ducted air conditioners may perform differently depending on these variables. If you have concerns about your system’s efficiency this winter, consult your local Mitsubishi Electric dealer for specialised advice.
For more insights on finding the perfect heating solution for your home this winter, check out our detailed blogs on whether ducted air conditioning is a good choice for winter heat and everything you need to know about the defrost cycle.
By following these insider tips, you can ensure that your home remains warm and comfortable throughout the winter while keeping energy consumption and costs to a minimum. Selecting the right air conditioner (split systems, ducted air conditioners, and other models) and regular unit maintenance and smart usage practices are key to efficient heating.
FAQs
What features should I look for if I live in a very hot or cold climate?
Select residential air conditioners with high energy efficiency ratings for extreme climates to handle temperature extremes without excessive energy consumption. Opt for models with robust cooling capacities and efficient compressors for hot climates to ensure effective cooling. Look for the Guaranteed Operating Range in the model’s specifications to see what outdoor temperature range the unit can operate in.
How does the placement of my air conditioner affect its efficiency?
Placement significantly impacts the efficiency of your air conditioner. Install the outdoor unit in a shaded area, away from direct sunlight and obstructions, to enhance its cooling and heating efficiency. Position the indoor unit centrally with unobstructed airflow to ensure even cool air distribution and maintain a consistent, comfortable temperature.
If the outdoor unit has to be installed in a narrow space, ask your installer about an “air outlet guide” that directs air away from fences and walls and doesn’t cycle back on itself.
What kind of air conditioners are there?
There are several types of air conditioners available, each catering to different needs and preferences:
- Split-system air Conditioner: Ideal for single rooms or specific areas, these systems consist of a single indoor unit and an outdoor unit. Split system air conditioners are another name for any of the following types of systems.
- Multi-Split System Air Conditioner: Connect multiple indoor units to one outdoor unit, allowing independent temperature control in different rooms.
- Ducted Air Conditioners: Suitable for whole-house heating and cooling, these systems use a network of ducts to distribute air throughout the home.
- Floor Console Air Conditioners: Suitable for renovations and heritage-listed houses, these residential air units have a slimline design that fits neatly into cavities and fireplace areas.
- Ceiling Cassette Air Conditioner: Installed in the ceiling, these are ideal for large spaces with limited wall space.
- Reverse Cycle Air Conditioners: Provide heating and cooling, making them versatile for year-round use.
- Bulkhead Air Conditioner: Designed with flexible connections to meet the most challenging air conditioning needs, bulkhead air conditioners are perfect for areas with low ceiling space.
How does cold weather affect my air conditioner?
Cold temperatures can decrease your air conditioner’s performance, particularly if it’s not engineered for low-temperature operation. Freezing conditions may cause ice buildup on the outdoor unit’s heat exchanger, leading to defrost cycles and reduced heating capacity. To ensure reliable operation during cold weather, consider these tips:
- Maintain your unit according to manufacturer guidelines. Check your user manual for more details.
- Avoid setting the thermostat too high. Lower temperature settings reduce strain on the unit, decreasing the frequency of defrost cycles in cold conditions.
- Implement long-term solutions like installing insulation in ceilings, walls, and floors to minimise heating needs and save on energy costs. For immediate improvements, keep doors closed and curtains drawn to retain heat.
- Ensure the outdoor unit is unobstructed by barriers or structures.
- Elevate the outdoor unit at least 100 mm off the ground to prevent it from sitting in a pool of cold, damp air. Speak to a qualified air conditioning specialist with appropriate refrigerant and electrical licencing about moving the outdoor unit if required.
By following these recommendations, you can optimise your air conditioner’s performance during cold weather and potentially extend its lifespan.
