As the weather heats up, it’s important to have a reliable air conditioning unit to keep you cool and comfortable. Portable air conditioners are a great option for those who don’t have central air or want to cool specific rooms. Whether you own a portable AC unit or you opted for a portable AC hire, its important to make sure that everything works efficiently to save energy and money. However, to make the most of your portable AC unit, you’ll need to know how to maximise its efficiency. Here are eight easy tricks to help you do just that.
1. Choose the Right Size
Before purchasing a portable AC unit, it’s important to consider the size of the room you want to cool. A unit that’s too small won’t be able to effectively cool the room, while a unit that’s too large will waste energy and money. To determine the right size, measure the room’s square footage and use a sizing chart or online calculator to find the appropriate BTU (British Thermal Unit) rating.
2. Keep the Unit Clean
A dirty or clogged air filter can significantly reduce the efficiency of your portable AC unit. Be sure to clean or replace the filter every two weeks or as recommended by the manufacturer. Additionally, dust or debris on the unit’s coils can also reduce efficiency. Use a soft brush or vacuum to clean the coils regularly.
3. Seal Any Air Leaks
To maximise the efficiency of your portable AC unit, it’s important to keep cool air inside and warm air outside. Seal any air leaks in windows, doors, or other openings using weatherstripping or caulking. This will help keep the cool air inside and prevent warm, humid air from entering the room.
4. Use the Right Settings
Most portable AC units have multiple settings and modes, including fan speed, temperature, and timer options. To maximise efficiency, set the unit to the highest temperature that’s still comfortable. Additionally, use the “fan only” mode to circulate air without cooling it, which can save energy and money.
5. Use Curtains or Blinds
Direct sunlight can significantly increase the temperature of a room, making it harder for your portable AC unit to cool the space. Use curtains or blinds to block out the sun, especially during the hottest parts of the day. This will help keep the room cooler and reduce the workload on your AC unit.
6. Position the Unit Properly
The location of your portable AC unit can also affect its efficiency. Place the unit in a central location in the room, away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Additionally, make sure the unit is positioned so that the warm air exhaust hose can vent outside. This will help prevent warm air from circulating back into the room and reduce the workload on your AC unit.
7. Use a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat can help you save energy and money by automatically adjusting the temperature based on your schedule. Set the thermostat to a higher temperature when you’re away from home or sleeping, and lower it when you’re in the room. This will help keep you comfortable while reducing energy consumption.
8. Keep the Room Cool
Finally, there are a few simple things you can do to keep the room cool without relying solely on your portable AC unit. Use fans or ceiling fans to circulate air, and avoid using heat-generating appliances or electronics during the hottest parts of the day. Additionally, wearing lightweight, breathable clothing and drinking plenty of water can help you stay cool and comfortable.
Conclusion
Portable air conditioners are a great option for keeping cool during hot summer days. To maximise their efficiency, it’s essential to choose the right size, keep the unit clean, seal any air leaks, use the right settings, use curtains or blinds, position the unit properly, use a programmable thermostat, and keep the room cool. By following these easy tricks, you can stay comfortable while saving energy and money.
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