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.
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 of 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 having your heating running all day. Minimise this by setting it to switch on 20 mins before getting up in the morning. Once you’ve nailed the morning routine of breakfast and getting ready for the day, switch the heating off as the warm air will remain for a couple of hours as the day progresses. Try getting outdoors at lunchtime, and 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 to help warm the house up. Close them again as the sun sets to keep the warm in.
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 specific times or when it reaches a specific temperature, ensuring your home is always at a comfortable temperature.
Tip 4: Look at energy efficiency
If you are at home all day with the family, energy bills are likely to hike. Making sure appliances are at their most efficient is vital to minimise those costs. Did you know that aircon units made as recently as 2002 can run up to 40% less efficiently than newer models? Take a look at when your aircon was installed and compare efficiencies online.
Reverse cycle air conditioning specifically models with a higher efficiency rating, produce 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, where a medium gas heater’s cost will be $300. So, it truly pays to invest and do your research when it comes to major home appliances.
New systems also offer innovative features which make 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 currently in the market for a new system, keep an eye out for easy-clean features that will allow hassle-free maintenance between servicing. The Dual Barrier Coating by Mitsubishi Electric is a feature designed to reduce dust and greasy dirt from collecting in the unit, providing long-lasting protection to the heat exchanger, fan and air ducts.
To keep ducted air conditioning systems running efficiently, talk to an air conditioning technician to organise a service. The service should include cleaning the return air filter, checking the drain pump and lines are clear and electrical points are all good. 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 the performance and cost-effectiveness of your unit, including windows, sunlight and electronics in the home. If you have concerns about your system’s efficiency this winter season, consult a specialist air conditioning dealer. Your local Mitsubishi Electric dealer can be found at https://www.mitsubishielectric.com.au/find-a-stockist/ for specialised advice.
