With an average yearly temperature of 26ºC, it’s no wonder that we Brisbanites rely on our air conditioning all year round, particularly during humid temperatures.

And while your AC might get a weekly workout – no matter the time of the year – it’s no question that summer is when we come to rely on our cooling solution the most.

Not only do we reach our peak average maximum temperature of 29.1ºC, but we also experience the most rainfall, which often creates a sticky, humid, and uncomfortable climate.

Now is the time of the year when we’re cracking up our system, relying on it to provide comfort in our day to day. And with such a reliance comes the question of efficiency.

Is there an optimal way to run your air conditioning, particularly during summer? Is it best to leave it on for an extended period, or switch between running it and giving it a rest?

In this blog post, we’ll answer all your questions and help you understand the most effective way to run your air conditioning during summer – without sacrificing comfort!

Need support for your AC in Brisbane?

Sick of sweltering through summer? If you’re searching for air conditioning in Brisbane, get in touch with Tri-Tech today. We offer on-site consultations to help introduce you to the most effective cooling solutions for your home or business.

What is the best way to run your AC in the summer?

1. Set the temperature (and try to avoid adjusting it)

Keep the temperature at a comfortable level, around 24°C to 26°C, as adjusting it frequently can lead to higher energy consumption.

The “set and forget” technique allows your unit to steadily work at a reasonable pace. Frequently changing the temperature can use up more energy, which drives up your electricity consumption and bills.

2. Use a programmable thermostat

Set the thermostat to turn off when you’re not home or when the temperature outside cools down at night.

That’s when you can make the most of natural ventilation, opening up doors and windows once the temperature drops to enjoy pleasant, cooler evenings.

Zoning is a hugely popular add-on that gives you even greater control over how, when, and where you use your air conditioning. With up to 10 zones of comfort, you can control every zone, individually – even when you’re not at home, through a compatible device.

3. Book regular maintenance

Regular maintenance of your air conditioning unit can improve its efficiency, extend its lifespan, and reduce energy consumption.

You must choose the experience of a qualified professional for all maintenance work.

We’ll provide an unbiased assessment of your unit explaining the service, maintenance, or repairs it needs.

For an older system, we may suggest replacement as a more cost-effective, long-term solution over repairs. If you’re interested in an air conditioning service in Brisbane to assess the condition of your unit, and explore alternatives, get in touch with us today.

4. Keep air filters clean

Dirty air filters can cause your air conditioning unit to work harder and consume more energy, so replace or clean them regularly.

Many split systems are easy to open up and remove the filters. Cleaning is simple, too: usually, a dry brush (like a new toothbrush) can be used to wipe away dust. Alternatively, you can use a damp cloth.

If you use your aircon daily, we suggest cleaning your filters monthly. For those who rely less on your aircon, every 3 months should suffice.

Speak to an air conditioning professional for in-depth cleaning, which you should schedule at least once a year (ideally twice). This will not only keep your system running most effectively, but can also prolong its life span.

Remember that the cleaner the filter, the more effective your air con!

5. Close windows and doors

It sounds obvious, but a few seconds’ lapse can quickly bring discomfort and unwanted heat into the house.

Make sure to keep windows and doors closed while the air conditioner is on, as this will prevent outside air from entering and make the unit work more efficiently.

Cover windows with curtains during hot daylight hours to prevent sunlight from entering your home and heating it.

6. Check the position of your outdoor unit

Where possible, ensure your outdoor unit is out of direct sunlight. This can heat the compressor, which in turn forces your system to work harder to cool down.

While a difficult change to make once your unit is installed, outdoor unit installation is a crucial part of the system design process.

If you’re considering air conditioning installation in Brisbane, ensure you choose a team that prioritises system design.

This in-depth process helps us create a tailored cooling solution that meets not only your needs and budget but also addresses unique problems or potential complications at your property.

How long should my AC run at a time?

A typical air conditioning cycle is around 15 to 20 minutes. Provided you have an adequately sized system for the property you’re cooling, this means your indoor environment should reach your set temperature in less than half an hour.

After that, your cooling system will pause, and then once the temperature rises again, will kick back into action.

If your air conditioner is running for longer cycles, it may not be adequately reaching the desired temperature, which compromises your comfort.

This may be due to an unusually high outdoor temperature, of course.

However, in many cases, it can indicate an issue with your unit. From dirty coils to an ageing AC that is struggling to keep up with your cooling needs, there are a ton of reasons why your air con may be working on extended runs.

This leads to excessive use and drives up your energy bills, so it’s worth getting your unit inspected.

Tri the best and stay cool this summer with Tri-Tech!

No one should have to endure a stuffy and uncomfortable home environment during the summer months.

By following the tips outlined in this blog post, you can ensure that your air conditioner is working at peak performance and keeping your family cool and comfortable all season long.

Of course, if you find that your AC unit is not cooling as it used to or needs repairs, the Tri-Tech team is here to help. We offer a range of services including replacement, maintenance, and air conditioning repairs in Brisbane for both residential and commercial customers.