Survive the heat and humidity, simple tips to save money using your air conditioner

Australian summers are harsh, temperatures have never been higher and air conditioners across the nation are working overtime to keep us cool.

If you are a fan of staying cool but always worry about the rising price of electricity there are a few simple tips that will save money on your next power bill.

Change the air conditioner setting from cool to dry instead.

Australian Refrigeration Mechanics Association vice president Ryan Ardill says it could reduce your power use by 30 to 50 per cent.

"The trick to saving power is - if it's a decent temperature in the house but very high humidity around the house - you should run it on dry mode. That's the picture of the little droplet on your remote.

"In dry mode it will run the compressor at a reduced output, and water condenses on the inside coil. It's pretty good at night time when the temperature is comfortable and you don't want to run it in cooling.

"When you're running it in cooling mode it will stop cooling, and the compressor will stop running, as soon as you get it to your set point... and the humidity will jump back up."

Make sure your air conditioner air filters are clean. If your air conditioner’s filter is clogged with dust and grime, it will have to work twice as hard to pump out cool air. 

Over time it will will be less effective and can reduce the lifespan or your air conditioner. Try and give the filter a clean once a month, and this will keep your air con working at optimal performance.

Try putting the temperature up a couple of degrees. Each degree of cooling can increase your energy consumption by as much as 10 per cent.

Chances are if our kids are shivering then your house is too cool!

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