8 Energy-Efficient Tips for Running Your Air Conditioner

Keeping cool in summer doesn’t have to mean skyrocketing electricity bills. Air conditioners are one of the biggest energy consumers in Australian homes and businesses, yet there are plenty of ways to run them more efficiently without compromising comfort. By adjusting how you use your system and ensuring it receives proper care, you can save energy, lower costs, and extend the life of your unit.

Below are eight practical strategies for making your AC more energy efficient while keeping your indoor spaces comfortable all year round.

1. Set Your Air Conditioner to the Optimal Temperature for Comfort & Savings

Running your unit too cold drains unnecessary energy. For most households and workplaces, setting the thermostat between 24 °c and 25°C is both comfortable and efficient. Each degree lower can add around 10% to your energy usage, so finding that balance is essential.

Some quick guidelines:

• Stick with 24–25°C on hot days for comfort without overloading the system.
• Use fans alongside your AC to circulate cool air, allowing for slightly higher temperature settings.
• Avoid constantly adjusting the thermostat, as frequent changes make the unit work harder.

Keeping the system at an optimal temperature allows you to stay cool while ensuring your electricity bills remain manageable.

2. Make Use of Zoning to Cool Only the Spaces You Need

Many modern air conditioning systems come with zoning capabilities, which allow you to cool different areas of the property independently. This means you don’t waste energy cooling empty rooms.

How zoning makes a difference:

• Directs cooling to high-use areas such as living rooms or offices while shutting off unused zones.
• Reduces the overall load on your system, extending its service life.
• Provides flexibility for households or workplaces where people occupy different areas at different times.

By only cooling where it’s needed, zoning helps households and businesses cut down on energy waste and maintain greater comfort across different spaces.

3. Schedule Regular Servicing to Keep Your AC Performing Efficiently

Like any appliance, air conditioners lose efficiency if improperly maintained. Dust build-up, clogged filters, and refrigerant leaks force the system to work harder, increasing energy use.

Regular servicing ensures your AC continues to operate efficiently and avoids costly breakdowns. A typical service may include:

• Cleaning or replacing filters.
• Inspecting refrigerant levels to ensure optimal cooling.
• Checking coils, fans, and ductwork for dirt or blockages.
• Testing electrical components and system controls.

A well-maintained system will not only use less energy but will also last longer, saving you money in the long term.

4. Upgrade to an Energy-Efficient Air Conditioner for Long-Term Benefits

Sometimes, the most effective way to cut energy use is to replace an outdated unit. Modern systems are far more efficient and designed with energy-saving technologies that older models lack.

Benefits of an upgrade

• Reduced running costs: Energy-efficient units can use up to 40% less electricity.
• Environmental advantages: Lower energy demand means reduced carbon emissions.
• Improved comfort: Newer systems often provide faster cooling and better airflow.
• Smart features: Many units have timers, zoning, and Wi-Fi controls.

If your system is over 10–12 years old, upgrading can deliver significant savings while keeping your home or workplace more comfortable.

5. Use a Programmable Thermostat or Smart Controls for Better Efficiency

One of the easiest ways to cut energy use is to ensure your air conditioner only runs when needed. A programmable thermostat or smart control system takes the guesswork out of managing cooling.

Here’s how these tools improve efficiency:

Feature

• Programmable settings
• Smartphone apps
• Motion sensors

Benefit

• Automatically adjusts cooling based on time of day.
• Control your AC remotely to avoid wasting energy.
• Detect when rooms are unoccupied and adjust cooling.

With these technologies, you don’t need to remember to switch the unit off—it happens automatically, ensuring comfort when you need it and savings when you don’t.

6. Improve Insulation & Seal Gaps to Support Your Air Conditioner

Even the most advanced system can struggle if your home or building leaks cool air. Poor insulation or gaps around doors and windows force the AC to run longer, increasing energy consumption.

Ways to support your AC through better insulation:

• Seal gaps around windows, doors, and ducts.
• Use weatherstripping or draft stoppers to prevent cool air from escaping.
• Install ceiling insulation to keep the heat out and the cool air in.
• Close curtains or blinds during the hottest part of the day to reduce solar heat gain.

Good insulation works hand in hand with your AC, lowering cooling demands and creating a more comfortable indoor environment.

7. Maximise Natural Ventilation & Shade to Reduce Cooling Load

Your air conditioner doesn’t have to work alone. By using natural ventilation and shading better, you can reduce the need to run your system as often.

Practical strategies:

• Open windows and doors in the evening when outdoor temperatures drop, letting in cooler air.
• Use cross-ventilation by opening opposite sides of the house or building to improve airflow.
• Install window coverings such as blinds, awnings, or reflective films to block out excess heat.
• Position outdoor units in shaded areas to prevent them from overheating and working harder.



Simple changes in how you use natural airflow and shade can ease the load on your AC and provide welcome relief on hot days.

8. Clean or Replace Air Filters Regularly for Healthier, More Efficient Cooling

Filters play a critical role in both efficiency and air quality. When they’re clogged with dust and debris, airflow is restricted, forcing the system to run longer and use more power. Dirty filters can also circulate allergens and pollutants indoors.

Best practices for managing filters:

• Check filters every 1–2 months during heavy use.
• Clean reusable filters with mild detergent and water, ensuring they’re completely dry before reinstalling.
• Replace disposable filters as recommended by the manufacturer.
• Keep surrounding vents clear of dust and obstructions.

Regular filter maintenance ensures cleaner air, a healthier environment, and a more energy-efficient air conditioning system.

Stay Cool with Our Air Conditioning Services in Wollongong

At Airdale Services, we’re dedicated to helping you keep your air conditioning in Wollongong efficient, reliable, and cost-effective. From installations and servicing to upgrades and maintenance, our team ensures your system works at its best while keeping energy use in check.

If you’re ready to improve your cooling efficiency, get in touch via our contact page or give us a call for more information or to book a consultation.