Energy-Saving Tips for Air Conditioner Use During Summer

Summer in Vietnam, particularly in large cities such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang, often records extreme temperatures, sometimes reaching as high as 40°C. In such harsh weather conditions, air conditioning becomes an almost indispensable appliance in every household, office, and store.

However, continuous air conditioner usage also means a surge in electricity bills. Therefore, people often look for tips to save electricity when using air conditioning to reduce living expenses. This also helps conserve energy and protect the environment.

Tips to Save Electricity When Using Air Conditioning

Using air conditioning correctly will help reduce monthly electricity bills and ensure the appliance operates efficiently and lasts longer.

There are several tips to save electricity when using air conditioning in the summer that you can refer to.

Set a Reasonable Temperature

One common mistake when using air conditioning is setting the temperature too low. Many people have a habit of lowering the temperature to 20-22°C to quickly cool the room, but this forces the machine to work at full capacity, consuming a large amount of electricity. In fact, the ideal temperature to stay cool and save electricity is between 26-28°C. Setting the temperature at this range not only helps stabilize the machine’s operation but also ensures your health and prevents heat shock when going outside.

Combine with Electric Fans

Combining air conditioning with electric fans is a simple but effective tip to save electricity. Fans help spread the cold air more evenly in the room, so you don’t need to lower the air conditioner temperature too much. Also, using the fan mode on the air conditioner when the room is already cool enough helps save a significant amount of electricity.

Keep Doors and Windows Closed when Using Air Conditioning

When turning on the air conditioner, make sure all doors and windows are closed. If the doors are left open, the cold air will escape, and the hot air from outside will come in, increasing the load on the air conditioner and consuming more electricity.

If possible, consider installing thermal curtains or applying thermal film on the glass to reduce the impact of direct sunlight.

Regular Maintenance and Cleaning

Over time, air conditioners accumulate dust and dirt in the evaporator, condenser, and air filter. This not only reduces cooling efficiency but also increases electricity consumption. Therefore, regular cleaning of the appliance (about every 3-6 months) is a crucial tip to save electricity when using air conditioning that every family should remember to apply.

In addition, it is necessary to inspect and maintain essential components such as gas, block, and fan blades to ensure the appliance operates efficiently and saves energy.

Use Energy-Saving Mode (Eco/Inverter)

Most modern air conditioners are integrated with an energy-saving mode (Eco mode) or Inverter technology. These features help the machine operate more efficiently and consume less electricity compared to conventional mechanical models.

Although the initial cost of an Inverter air conditioner is higher, the long-term energy savings are significant. If you plan to buy a new air conditioner, consider choosing a model with Inverter technology to optimize usage costs.

Use Timer Functions and Turn Off the Air Conditioner When Not Needed

The habit of keeping the air conditioner on all night or when leaving the room is a major cause of electricity waste. Utilize the timer function to automatically turn off the air conditioner when you are asleep or when the room is cool enough.

Also, turn off the air conditioner when leaving the room for more than 30 minutes to save electricity. You can also invest in smart control devices or timer outlets to automate the air conditioning process.

Choose the Right Capacity for Your Room Size

Another common mistake that leads to inefficient air conditioner usage is selecting a unit with the wrong capacity for the room size. If the capacity is too small, the machine has to work continuously to cool the room, resulting in high electricity consumption and potential breakdowns.

If the capacity is too large, the room will cool down too quickly, causing a sudden drop in humidity, affecting your health. The ideal capacity is usually calculated as 1 HP (horsepower) for every 12-15 square meters of floor area.

Make Use of Natural Light and Wind When Possible

During the early morning or late afternoon, when the weather is milder, you can open the windows to let in the natural breeze instead of turning on the air conditioner. At the same time, turn off heat-emitting appliances such as stoves, incandescent light bulbs, and electronics when not in use to reduce the temperature in the room.

Using air conditioning reasonably will help you save a significant amount on your electricity bills during the hot summer months, protect your health, and reduce pressure on the national power grid. Become a smart consumer by applying the above small but effective tips to save electricity when using air conditioning. Changing daily habits will bring long-term benefits to your family and the community.