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Don't Rush to Turn on AC 'Cooling' Mode This Summer: Do This First, Halve Your Electricity Bill

Air Conditioner, Summer, Save Electricity, Energy Saving, Home Maintenance —

Last week temperatures already hit 30°C, and I think many of you have or are about to turn on the AC.

But I’m telling you, there’s one thing you must do before turning on the AC, otherwise your AC might secretly be using twice as much electricity!

That thing is: Clean the Filter and Radiator

I know this sounds boring, but let me speak with data:

My AC is 2 years old and I never cleaned the filter. Last summer I tested with a power meter: AC used 1.2 kWh per hour.

After I took apart and washed the filter (seriously so dirty I gagged the whole time), tested again: 0.8 kWh per hour.

Same AC, same temperature setting, just because the filter was clean, power consumption dropped 33%!

Filter Cleaning Steps:

  1. First turn off power and unplug, safety first
  2. Open the front panel, remove the filter (usually clips on both sides, gently unclip)
  3. Rinse with water, brush the gaps if needed
  4. Air dry the filter (don’t sun-dry, will deform)
  5. Wipe dust off the radiator with a dry cloth
  6. Put back, turn on power and AC

Notes:

  • Clean filters every 2-3 weeks, more frequently if heavily used
  • If your AC is over 5 years old, recommend getting professional deep cleaning
  • Must disconnect power when cleaning, don’t spray water directly on indoor unit

Another Energy-Saving Tip: Use Dehumidify Mode

For the same cooling effect, dehumidify mode uses much less electricity than cooling mode. Simple reason: cooling runs the compressor continuously, dehumidify runs intermittently.

I usually run dehumidify first to reduce humidity, then switch to cooling. Room cools faster this way and feels more comfortable.

Alright, I’m going to buy a new AC filter first. The old one is disgustingly dirty.

Girls, how many years has your AC been used? Ever cleaned the filter?

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