Air conditioning systems are a great thing: they provide the perfect room temperature - both in terms of pleasant coolness and cozy warmth - so that air conditioning systems don't cause hot flashes on your electricity bill, here are some tips from the experts.
The advantages are obvious: unlike conventional heaters or fans, air conditioning systems are able to bring a room or home to the desired temperature in a very short time. In summer, the devices provide a refreshing coolness, while on cold days air conditioning systems create pleasant warmth.
Care about electricity costs
However, the many positive features of air conditioning are not entirely carefree. The devices are considered power guzzlers, not very energy-friendly and therefore also harmful to the climate. With the current energy prices and the situation of rising global warming, many people are therefore thinking twice about buying an appliance.
Do something for the climateLet's start with sustainability. Here, everyone has the opportunity to make their own personal contribution, for example by using electricity that is generated in a climate-neutral way and does not produce any CO2. After all, no air conditioning system can do without electricity. However, each individual can help decide which energy source to use. For example, a permanently installed air conditioning system produces 76 kilos of CO2 per year with a normal electricity mix. With fossil fuels, the balance is zero.
Of course, you can also generate your own electricity, for example with a photovoltaic system. This also reduces the consumption of electricity from the grid and the consumer pays less in the medium term. Another advantage here is that solar power is generated when the sun is shining, which can be used for cooling. A natural cycle with plenty of sustainability. What's more, self-generated electricity is cheaper than electricity from the grid.
Photovoltaics as an energy source
A new book from Stiftung Warentest provides information on the options available to homeowners. Photovoltaik & Batteriespeicher" by energy expert and assessor Wolfgang Schröder (test-Verlag, price EUR 39.90) provides all the necessary information about today's technology, current regulations and the cost-effectiveness of a system.
Advantages of modern devices
Not all air conditioning systems are the same. New, modern devices consume much less electricity than old air conditioning systems, explains David Wolf, owner of the specialist company DAWOMA S.C in Palma. This is ensured by so-called inverter compressors. The trick: the air conditioning system draws part of its energy from the ambient temperature. And the air conditioning expert has another tip up his sleeve: "Make sure that the filters in particular are clean to avoid any loss of performance."
Pay attention to the energy class
You should not save at the wrong end. Cheap air conditioners usually belong to a low energy class. This means that if you go for bargains when buying, you will end up paying for it.
An air conditioner with energy efficiency class A+++ saves an impressive 50 percent compared to a class B appliance. It is therefore worth investing a little more money when purchasing an air conditioner in order to save electricity costs in the long term and, last but not least, to do something for the (global) climate.Installation by a professional
Many DIY enthusiasts rely on their own motivation and manual skills from other areas. However, this does not really make sense when purchasing and installing air conditioning systems.
"An air conditioning system must be correctly calculated in terms of performance,says Daniel Wolf. In addition, customers are sometimes unaware of the options available for installation.
The installation location of an air conditioning system is crucial for performance and consumption. "With a trained eye, there is often a better option", the DAWOMA expert continues.
Think about service
Of course, an air conditioning system also needs servicing afterwards. "This can mean that a part becomes defective or simple maintenance is required," says Wolf. But even simple operating errors can be quickly rectified over the phone by contacting a specialist who knows the device and installation situation.
Smart controls
If you do not yet have an air conditioning system with inverter technology, you should think about replacing it at some point. In most cases, it is only possible to replace the units. This keeps the structural measures within limits," says David Wolf. There are also smart controls for air conditioning systems. This is another way to reduce energy costs. Smart devices detect open windows, incorporate weather data into their function and even recognize whether someone is at home. These may sound like fun gadgets, but smart controls ultimately save you money. Here are some tips from the climate expert:
- Air conditioning systems should be serviced regularly.
- Extreme temperature differences should be avoided.
- If an air conditioning system is set to a room temperature of 18 degrees, it is almost always running at its limit.
-If there are large window fronts, it always helps to shade them additionally.
Tips for operation
Plan your air conditioning system according to your needs, the specialist will help you with this. An air conditioning system that is too small in a room that is too large will constantly run at full speed and become a money waster. Devices that are too large, on the other hand, consume more energy than necessary.
Always keep doors and windows closed when operating the air conditioner. With mobile units, you should seal the window slits or openings for the exhaust air hose.
Make sure the room temperature is correct. Doctors recommend keeping the temperature of the air-conditioned room to a maximum of six degrees Celsius below the outside temperature. This prevents colds caused by excessive temperature differences.
If you are not using an air conditioner, switch the device off completely. Do not use the stand-by mode.
