Did you know that using the air conditioner daily during the summer month can increase your electricity bills by about 30 euros? And that one of the factors that could contribute to this is your incorrect use of the device?
There are many mistakes we make every day without realizing it, but even as small as it seems, it really affects our energy consumption.
After extensive research, Selectra has compiled a list of those that appear to occur most frequently in Portuguese homes.
10 Most Common Mistakes Using Air Conditioning
1. Choose extremely low temperatures
How many times have you come home in sweltering heat and the first thing you do is turn the air conditioner on to the lowest temperature?
As attractive as this is an idea, it also means more effort by the motor to reach the chosen temperature, thus increasing power consumption. In the case of cooling, the indicated temperature should be between 24°C and 26°C.
2. Not cleaning the filters regularly
If you are one of those people who always put off this task, know that this may be reflected in your bills. This is because a dirty filter impairs the quality of ventilation and therefore the efficiency of the equipment.
3. Lack of annual maintenance for air conditioners
When was the last time you called a technician to check the condition of your air conditioner? If you don’t remember a date already, maybe it’s time to do so.
What is recommended is to choose preventive maintenance of the device, avoid possible malfunctions and check whether it is working efficiently.
4. Underestimating the thermostatموس
Cooling empty or ventilated rooms is a waste of energy, and in that sense a thermostat can be your great ally, working through chambers and thus can control the temperature whatever each one is.
5. Do not use the fan
Even if you just bought an air conditioner now, don’t say goodbye to the fan now! Simultaneous operation of the two units can be very effective, especially in larger areas, as it will help to reach the desired temperature more quickly and thus reduce the energy consumption of the air conditioning.
Credits: freepik/jcomp
“data-title =” fan – Do you use the air conditioner at home? Find out what may affect your electric bill and the most common errors – SAPO Lifestyle”> 
6. Install the air conditioner in places exposed to direct sunlight
When choosing a place to install the air conditioner, the tendency is to choose the most hidden corners in the house, never thinking about whether or not you will be exposed to direct sunlight.
However, this should be a major concern, as if you are exposed in warmer places, more energy will be required to cool the place.
7. Use the oven or dryer on hot days
The logic is the same as in the point above. The use of these devices circulates hot air, which requires more effort on the part of the device to equalize the temperatures.
It may seem like a harmless gesture, but believe me it can make a difference to your bill at the end of the month.
8. Not paying attention to the ventilation holes in the house
To maintain a constant temperature inside the space, it is essential that there is no air inlet or outlet. Ensure that all windows are closed and that there are no vents that restrict the proper power operation of the air conditioner.
9. Skip dehumidification mode
Although it is summer time, there are always days when you feel humid with a certain degree of intensity. Try turning on this mode instead of cooling mode first and see what the discomfort is really feeling.
10. Low energy efficiency model purchase نموذج
Buying and installing air conditioners is a big investment, and therefore, some doubts may arise, if the choice you are making is the right one. There are many factors that influence this decision, but there is one that we consider essential: the choice of a model that is highly energy efficient.
It may not always be the cheapest option, but in the long run it will translate into greater savings in your wallet.
