Using an air conditioner is a common practice to keep your home cool and comfortable, especially during hot weather. However, many people unknowingly make mistakes that can lead to unnecessary energy consumption and a significant increase in their electricity bill. One of the most common questions is whether it’s correct to close the door when using the air conditioner. While it seems intuitive to seal the room to keep cool air in, there are several other factors that contribute to high energy usage. Let’s explore the key mistakes that could cause your electricity meter to increase 2-3 times more than usual and how to avoid them.

1. Closing the Door When Using the Air Conditioner

While it might seem like a good idea to close the door to keep the cool air in, this isn’t always the best choice. In a well-insulated room, closing the door can help maintain the temperature. However, if your air conditioner is not functioning optimally or if there is poor air circulation, closing the door completely can cause the system to work harder to cool the air, leading to higher energy consumption.

Why this is a problem:

• Air conditioners work by circulating cool air and removing hot air. If you close the door tightly, the cool air gets trapped and may not circulate effectively, causing the AC to run longer than necessary.

• Additionally, if the room lacks ventilation, the air conditioner will have to work harder to maintain the desired temperature, which increases energy usage.

Solution:
It’s important to have some level of air circulation. If possible, leave a small gap in the door or open a window slightly to allow fresh air to flow into the room. If your air conditioner has a ventilation setting, use that to maintain the balance of air.

2. Setting the Temperature Too Low

One of the most common mistakes people make is setting their air conditioner temperature too low, thinking that it will cool the room faster. However, air conditioners do not work this way. Setting the temperature too low forces the unit to run continuously at maximum power, resulting in higher energy consumption.

Why this is a problem:

• The air conditioner struggles to reach very low temperatures, and it keeps running for longer periods, consuming more energy.

• Additionally, if the temperature is set too low, it may cause the system to overcool the room, leading to discomfort and the need to adjust the temperature repeatedly.

Solution:
Set your air conditioner to a moderate temperature, typically between 24°C and 26°C (75°F and 78°F). This range is ideal for comfort and energy efficiency. Avoid extreme settings and use a timer or programmable thermostat to maintain a consistent temperature.

3. Running the Air Conditioner While No One Is in the Room

Many people leave their air conditioner running even when they are not in the room, thinking that it’s better to keep the space cool at all times. This is a waste of energy.

Why this is a problem:

• If the room is unoccupied, there is no need for the air conditioner to be running. It continues to consume energy without providing any benefit.

• Running the AC unnecessarily when no one is in the room adds to your electricity bill without any real cooling effect.

Solution:
Turn off the air conditioner or set it to an automatic mode when you leave the room. Consider using a programmable timer or smart thermostat that can automatically turn off the AC when you’re not around.

4. Using the Air Conditioner with Dirty Filters

Air conditioners require regular maintenance, and one of the most important maintenance tasks is cleaning or replacing the air filters. Dirty filters reduce the efficiency of your air conditioner and force it to work harder to cool the room.

Why this is a problem:

• Clogged filters limit the airflow, causing the air conditioner to strain and use more energy to achieve the desired temperature.

• Over time, dirty filters can lead to a buildup of dust and grime, which can damage the system and cause it to malfunction.

Solution:
Clean or replace the filters regularly. Most air conditioners recommend cleaning the filters every 1-2 months, depending on usage. Ensure that the filters are free from dust, dirt, and debris to keep the system running efficiently.

5. Not Using Curtains or Blinds to Block the Sun

Another mistake that many people make is not using curtains or blinds to block the sunlight from entering the room. Sunlight can significantly increase the temperature inside, making your air conditioner work harder to maintain the desired cooling effect.

Why this is a problem:

• Direct sunlight heats the room, causing the air conditioner to work harder and longer to counter the added heat.

• The AC unit will use more energy to cool the room, and you may find that the temperature never seems to reach the desired level.

Solution:
Close the curtains or blinds during the hottest parts of the day to block out direct sunlight. You can also use reflective window films or heat-resistant window coverings to minimize heat gain. This will reduce the workload on your air conditioner and help it maintain a more consistent temperature.

Conclusion

To avoid unnecessarily high electricity bills and ensure your air conditioner operates efficiently, it's important to be mindful of the common mistakes listed above. Closing the door, setting the temperature too low, running the air conditioner when the room is empty, using dirty filters, and not blocking the sun with curtains or blinds can all lead to increased energy consumption. By following these simple tips and making a few adjustments, you can significantly reduce the strain on your air conditioner, keep your home comfortable, and save on energy costs.