There is a high price to pay for the creature comforts that an air conditioner brings. As described by a Saving Electricity article on energy conservation, the air conditioner is the appliance that uses the most energy whether it is a window unit or a central setup:
In the typical home, air conditioning uses more electricity than anything else—16% of total electricity used. In warmer regions AC can be 60-70% of your summer electric bill, according to Austin Energy. This is where the savings are folks, not in worrying that you left your cell phone charger plugged in too long.
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AC is simply an energy hog. A window unit AC uses 500 to 1440 watts, while a 2.5-ton central system uses about 3500 watts. That’s a lot of power. A floor fan uses only 100 watts on the highest speed, and ceiling fans use only 15 to 90 watts depending on speed and size.
In addition, companies specializing in AC repair from Toronto will stress that poorly maintained units use up a greater amount of power just like a poorly maintained car engine uses more fuel.
Abstinence is the best policy
The absolute fool-proof and risk-free way to conserve power and preserve your unit is to not use it whenever possible (unless it’s 40 degrees outside). There are alternative methods of cooling and circulating air without breaking the bank. As mentioned earlier, ceiling fans are the next best thing; in fact, there are fans available in the market that can blow air under your bed sheet. After all, why cool the entire home when all you need is a minimal breeze to help you sleep?
Ways to keep your cool
The article recommended everything from cold gel pillows or “chillows” to wet t-shirts; anything to get your temperature down without burning a hole in your pocket. It’s also effective to shower more frequently since the added water costs definitely won’t surpass the amount of energy saved.
Keep it running at peak efficiency
A simple inspection of the unit’s filter can tell you if it’s time to have your AC unit undergo maintenance. If it’s full of dust, this will make your unit work harder because it’s pulling air from the outside through all the grime. Wash or replace the filter. For centralized units, experts in air conditioner repair in Toronto offer periodic maintenance packages which you can avail of; it’s better to spend for cleaning than to splurge for repair or replacement. When your air conditioner remains in top form, it can serve you well for years to come without you going broke in the process.
(Source: 39 super tips for saving money on cooling and air conditioning costs, Saving Electricity)