Air conditioning is a significant factor contributing to elevated electricity bills during the sweltering summer months in the UAE. While reducing air conditioning usage may seem impractical as temperatures rise, it is indeed possible to maintain a comfortable indoor environment without incurring exorbitant utility costs. By leveraging smart technology and implementing a few straightforward adjustments to your daily routines, you can enjoy a cool and pleasant home while effectively managing your energy expenses.

Here are some effective strategies for minimizing your electric bill while maximizing the efficiency of your air conditioning system.

1. Set your air conditioner to the right temperature

Optimizing the temperature setting of your air conditioner is essential for energy conservation and can significantly lower your electricity expenses. In Dubai, it is advisable to maintain your air conditioning system at a temperature range of 21 to 24°C. This not only enhances comfort but also promotes energy efficiency, contributing to a more sustainable environment.

2. Regularly Maintain Your AC Unit

To make sure your air conditioner is operating correctly, routine maintenance is essential. Your unit’s ability to cool will be impacted as dust, grime, and other debris accumulate in the coils and air filters. Regularly clean or change your filters to prevent this.

Your air conditioning system will remain in top shape if you have dependable maintenance schedules and let a professional inspect it regularly. You can prolong the life of your air conditioner and reduce the likelihood of costly malfunctions by having your system serviced.

3. Use the energy-saving mode (ECO)

You may lower your DEWA bill and save energy by using the energy-saving option found on the majority of air conditioners. This mode lowers the air conditioner’s power usage and sets the temperature to a more energy-efficient level.

4. Adjust the Settings on Your Thermostat

One of the easiest ways to save electricity at home is to adjust the thermostat. The thermostat will have to run longer and consume more energy if it is set too low. Rather, maintain the temperature at a comfortable average of about 24 to 26°C.

Installing a programmable or smart thermostat would be ideal if at all possible. This type of thermostat enables you to program your air conditioner to only operate when it is absolutely essential, such as when you are away from home and want to raise the temperature. Depending on your schedule, change these settings to significantly cut down on energy use and maintain low expenses.

5. Clean or replace your air conditioner’s filter

Maintaining your filters properly is the first step to effective AC cleaning. An unclean or obstructed air conditioner filter can lower your air conditioner’s efficiency and raise your electricity usage. To maintain your air conditioner operating efficiently, clean the filter regularly.

6. Seal and Insulate Your Home

In order to prevent your energy-efficient air conditioner from being overworked, proper insulation is essential. Insufficient insulation permits cold air to escape and hot air to enter, increasing the strain on your air conditioner to use more energy to maintain a cool interior. Fix any leaks close to windows, doors, and ducts. Simple measures like sealing windows and doors or installing weather stripping can help save energy.

7. Install shading devices

By lowering the amount of direct sunlight that enters your house, shading devices like awnings or shade screens can help keep your house cooler and lessen the need for air conditioning. You can lower your electricity bill and conserve energy by doing this. The same would be true with curtains; blackout curtains will keep heat from entering the room through windows.