Split system air conditioners are known for their efficiency, but simple tips such as using the right temperature settings and cleaning the filter can maximise your energy savings.
Efficient Cleaning and Energy Tips for Your AC
In this guide i’ll break down my favourite tips on efficient ways to run a split system AC and why split systems are so popular among Perth homeowners.
What Is a Split System Air Conditioner?
A split system air conditioner consists of an indoor and outdoor unit. The units are connected by electrical wiring and refrigerant lines.
The indoor AC unit absorbs heat from the room before transferring it to the exterior unit. The outdoor unit uses refrigerant to cool the air and pump cold air through the indoor unit’s vents. The result is a highly efficient system that works to keep rooms cool and comfortable despite sweltering outdoor temps.
Are Split Systems ACs Effective?
Yes, split system air conditioners are considered one of the most effective ways to efficiently cool a home.
In Australia, split systems are extremely popular due to their efficiency and effectiveness. Split systems are an excellent choice for staying cool and comfortable during our hot, dry Perth summers.
How Much Does It Cost to Run a Split System?
“How much does it cost to run a split system?” is one of the questions I hear most. The main factors that affect how costly it is to run a split system include:
- Your home’s floor plan
- The unit’s capacity in kW
- How long you run your split system for
- The energy tariff the split system AC is connected to
- The quality of your home’s insulation and windows
- If it is an inverter unit
- The temperature you set your AC at
- How well you keep up on maintenance
Customers often wonder, “Do split systems use gas?”. No, split system air conditioners are an electric system. They operate using electricity and use a refrigerant for cooling and heating the air, not gas.
So are split systems expensive to run? Fortunately, split systems are an efficient and cost-effective solution for heating and cooling homes.
Many of my customers assume that a wall mounted air conditioner is the cheapest to run. However, results from Finder.com found that a single split system AC unit was the cheapest air conditioner type to use.
Cooling-only split systems cost approximately $152 to run for the duration of summer. Reverse-cycle air conditioning was found to cost around $185.
Learn more about “How much does it cost to run a split system?” in my guide here: Are Split Systems Expensive to Run?
5 Efficient Ways to Run a Split System
1. Use the Most Efficient Split System Temperature Settings
The most efficient way to run a split system is by using the best air conditioner temperature settings.
For summer in Perth, the most efficient air con temperature is 25℃ to 27℃. Some individuals may prefer a cooler setting of 23℃ to 24℃. I recommend testing different temperatures to find the right mix of comfort and cost-efficiency for you. If you have a reverse cycle air conditioning split system, you’ll also want to choose efficient setting temperatures in cooler months.
For Perth’s colder months, the best air con temperature for efficiency is 18 to 20°C. A good rule of thumb I like to tell customers is for every degree you set your reverse cycle air conditioning system above 20°C, expect heating costs to go up by 10%.
Learn more about the most efficient split system temperature settings in my guide here: Best Air Conditioner Temperature in Australia: Tips & Recommendations.
2. Use Doors, Windows, and Blinds to Maximise Efficiency
One of the easiest ways to maximise your split system’s efficiency and save on energy costs is closing the blinds on hot days. It is also important to keep doors and windows closed when running your split system.
In the cooler months, however, I recommend opening the blinds to let in sunshine and take advantage of free heat. Other ways to maximise your split system AC efficiency include:
- Close the doors to any rooms that do not need to be cooled
- Use thermal curtains
- Check doors and windows regularly for new leaks
- Upgrade your home’s insulation
- Make sure doors and windows are closed when the split system is running
- Seal off any gaps with caulk
- Use weather stripping
3. Keep Up With Preventative Maintenance
A split system AC with a dirty filter, clogged coils, or dust build-up will be forced to work harder and use more energy. Regular preventative maintenance is crucial for efficiency and the longevity of your split system.
Here’s a simple split system AC maintenance checklist:
- Clean the FIlter — Dirty filters have a significant impact on a split system’s efficiency. A clogged filter will reduce efficiency and can lead to unhealthy indoor air quality. Check and clean the filter at least once a month with a microfibre cloth slightly dampened with warm water and a mild detergent. Let it dry completely before re-installing the filter.
- Replace the Filter — Along with monthly cleaning, we recommend replacing the filter every three months. It may need to be replaced more often if you live in an area that is at higher elevation or especially windy or dusty.
- Clean the Condenser Coil — A dirty condenser consumes extra energy by causing the unit to work harder. Every 4 to 6 weeks, turn off the power to the split system, let it sit for at least an hour, and clean the condenser coil with a soft, dry cloth.
- Clean the Surface of the units Units — Keep the interior and exterior unit clean to ensure efficiency. Clean the indoor grilles regularly, maintain adequate space around the units, and use a cloth to wipe dust off the surface of the unit.
- Schedule Professional Servicing — We recommend scheduling an annual inspection of your split system. This ensures any problems are caught early before they can turn into expensive issues.
Regular servicing also keeps your split system running as efficiently as possible. A professional technician will clean and replace the filter, flush the drains, clean all ductwork and internal components, and ensure the engine runs efficiently. This can save money in the long run and maximise the lifespan of your split system.
Learn More about split system maintenance in our guide:The Best Tips for Maintaining Your Split System Air Conditioner.
4. Take Advantage of Efficient Settings
Many split systems offer an economy mode that makes the compressor run slower so it uses less energy. Check to see if your aircon system has economy mode or timers to take advantage of. These settings can maximise the unt’s efficiency while still keeping you cool and comfortable.
5. Keep the Space Around the Unit Clear
Ensuring adequate space around the outdoor unit is important for efficient operation. If obstacles are blocking the exterior unit, airflow can be obstructed and lead to decreased efficiency.
Keep energy bills low by keeping the area surrounding the inside and outside units clean and free of any obstacles that could block airflow.
Inside, this means keeping the space around the unit clear of curtains, plants, toys, or blankets. Outside, keep the unit clear of fallen leaves and dirt and trim any overhanging branches, twigs, shrubs, or plants.
Get Ready for Summer with Perth’s Air Con Experts at Air Con Installs WA
Split system air conditioners are popular due to their high efficiency and effective temperature control. Regular maintenance, utilising the right temperatures and settings, clearing away obstacles, and scheduling professional servicing can all maximise your air con’s efficiency.
Whether you would like your split system serviced so it is as efficient as possible for the coming summer months or if you are interested in upgrading your current system to a more efficient unit, we’re here to help. Enquire now to schedule a service visit or for a free on-site quote.
