5 tips for using your air conditioner more efficiently this summer

By Phong Ngo June 9, 2025 | 11:23 pm PT

Users are encouraged to have their air conditioners serviced regularly to ensure optimal performance and maintain good air quality. Photo by VnExpress/ My Y

To maximize air conditioner efficiency in the summer, Australian refrigeration expert Mark Sharp recommended setting moderate temperatures, turning on the system early, using dehumidifiers, and performing regular maintenance.

Sharp, a refrigeration and air conditioning instructor at Australia’s Technical and Further Education New South Wales, explained that many households misuse air conditioners, leading to higher electricity bills and discomfort, as reported by ABC News.

Avoid setting the temperature too low

One of the most common mistakes, according to Sharp, is expecting "instant cold" by setting the temperature to 18 degrees Celsius when turning on the air conditioner.

"It does the exact same thing as if you set it at 23 degrees," he said. "Once you set it to 18 degrees, it runs constantly and your electricity bill builds up because the motor's running longer."

Turn it on early in the day

Sharp advised turning on the air conditioner early, particularly when temperatures are expected to exceed 35 degrees.

"You're best to turn it on at 8:30am and let it run all day, but don't set it to 18 degrees. Set it to 23 or 24," he said. "If you do that, you get the efficiency out of it and it's not dragging that huge amount of electricity to run the unit."

He also suggested that many modern air conditioners offer wi-fi functionality, enabling users to control them remotely, starting a few hours before returning home.

Use dehumidification mode

When dealing with humid weather, Sharp recommended using the dehumidification mode, often indicated by a water droplet symbol on the unit. "You'll feel most comfortable with humidity around 50%," he said, adding that the mode will lower the temperature to around 24 or 25 degrees.

Schedule regular maintenance

To maintain efficiency and air quality, he stressed the importance of servicing air conditioners regularly.

"A service also maintains the cleanliness of the air because the coils get cleaned and you will get rid of the dust, mould, and grime that builds up and can cause health issues," he noted.

Supplement with fans

For homes without air conditioning in every room, he suggested using ceiling fans, which are quiet, energy-efficient, and effective in circulating cool air.

"If you put your fans in the backward mode, it can draw the cool air from the lounge room into the bedrooms," he said.

He also recommended closing curtains during the day to keep the interior cool. If the air conditioner has already cooled the home, fans can help maintain a comfortable temperature throughout the night.