As the temperature rises across Central Western NSW, keeping your home or business cool becomes essential. However, along with comfort, the rising heat also means increased energy usage and potentially higher electricity bills.
One of the most effective ways to ensure your air conditioning system runs smoothly while saving energy is regular maintenance. Whether you’re cooling a commercial space or your family home, following a few simple maintenance steps can improve your air conditioner’s efficiency and reduce long term costs.
Regular Maintenance is Key
Preventative maintenance is needed for the longevity and efficiency of your air conditioning system. Scheduling regular services is essential to keep everything running optimally, particularly in the extreme summer conditions of the Central West.
For residential air conditioners, it is recommended to service your unit at least once a year. Commercial or ducted systems on the other hand, more frequent servicing may be necessary—at least twice a year. By adhering to a preventative maintenance plan, you can catch small issues early before they turn into costly repairs.
Keep It Clean: Filters and Coils Matter
One of the easiest and most effective ways to maintain your air conditioner is to clean or replace filters regularly. Dirty filters can severely impact your air conditioner’s performance, forcing it to work harder and consume more energy. Make it a habit to clean or replace filters every 1–3 months, especially during high-use periods like summer.
Additionally, cleaning the coils of your system is essential. When coils accumulate dirt, they can’t absorb or release heat as effectively, meaning the system has to work harder. Regular servicing will improve performance and efficiency.
Energy Efficiency: Temperature and Timers
One of the simplest yet most impactful ways to save on energy bills is through proper temperature settings. Set your thermostat between 25–27°C for optimal comfort and efficiency. Lowering your thermostat by just 1°C can increase your energy bill by 10%.
For cooling large spaces, you can further control costs by using timers to ensure your system doesn’t run unnecessarily white unoccupied or during cooler parts of the day. Many modern air conditioners come with scheduling features that let you set specific times for operation.
Insulation and Environment: Positioning and Placement
Effective insulation is essential for maintaining a comfortable temperature and reducing strain on your air conditioning unit. Ensure your home or business is well insulated to keep cool air in and heat out. Focus on sealing gaps around windows, doors, and walls where drafts could cause energy loss.
Moreover, the positioning of your air conditioning unit plays a big role in its efficiency. Avoid placing the unit in direct sunlight or near heat sources, which forces the system to work harder. If possible, place your system in a shaded area to enhance its efficiency.
Proper System Sizing
An air conditioner that is too small for your space will have to work overtime to cool the room, leading to increased wear and tear. On the other hand, an oversized system will cycle on and off frequently, which can also decrease efficiency. It’s essential to have the right-sized unit for your specific needs.
This is especially important for both residential and commercial air conditioning systems, where the load varies depending on the number of rooms, floor area, and the building’s insulation.
Keep Your System Running Smoothly with Professional Servicing
Regular professional servicing not only ensures that your system is running smoothly but also extends its lifespan. An air conditioning technician will check all critical components, including refrigerant levels, coils, and ducts, ensuring everything is working as it should. This preventative maintenance prevents breakdowns, saves money on costly repairs, and helps avoid premature system replacement.
Maximise Comfort and Efficiency
Following these maintenance tips, you can ensure your air conditioning system runs efficiently and effectively throughout the hot summer months in Orange, Lithgow, Oberon, Bathurst, and the surrounding Central West. Regular servicing, proper temperature settings, insulation, and correct system sizing all contribute to a comfortable and energy-efficient home or business. With careful maintenance, your air conditioner can provide reliable cooling, lower energy bills, and last for many years to come.
Stay cool, save energy, and enjoy the benefits of a well-maintained system with expert advice and service from Press Power, your trusted partner for air conditioning in the Central West!
