Summer is here, and I know many of us are already relying on our air conditioners to escape the heat. There’s nothing more frustrating than turning on the AC after coming home and waiting for the room to cool down, only to realise it’s taking too long. In many cases, this happens because the AC isn’t being used or maintained the right way. Well, a few simple steps can help your AC work more efficiently and cool your room faster. From choosing the right AC size to maintaining it regularly, small changes can make a big difference in performance.
Choose right AC for your room size
Not every air conditioner is suitable for every room. The size of your room helps decide the cooling capacity required. AC capacity is measured in tons, and higher tonnage means stronger cooling power.
For example, a room up to about 80 sq. ft can work with around 0.8-ton capacity, while rooms up to 100 sq. ft may need a 1-ton AC. Larger rooms of around 150 sq. ft usually require 1.5-ton units, and spaces close to 200 sq. ft may need a 2-ton AC. If the AC is too small for the room, it will struggle to cool the space.
Also read: 5 ways to improve AC efficiency and reduce electricity bills during summer season
Service your AC regularly
Dust and dirt often build up in the outdoor unit over time, especially as the AC stays unused for several months. Regular servicing helps remove that buildup and keeps the system running smoothly. It’s advised to get the AC checked by a technician before the summer starts and schedule servicing every three to four months.
Clean the air filters frequently
Air filters play an important role in keeping dust and other particles from circulating in your room. However, these filters collect dirt over time.
When the filters become clogged, airflow reduces and cooling performance drops. Cleaning the filters every few weeks can improve cooling efficiency and also help reduce electricity consumption.
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Set the right temperature
Running the AC at extremely low temperatures does not necessarily cool the room faster. Instead, it can increase electricity usage. It is advised to keep the temperature at around 24–25°C.
Protect the outdoor unit with shade
The outdoor unit is built to handle heat, but placing a protective shade above it can still help. A shade can protect the unit from direct sunlight, bird droppings and other things. However, make sure the shade does not block airflow around the unit.