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.
By following these recommendations, you can optimise your air conditioner’s performance during cold weather and potentially extend its lifespan.
