Aircons are among the most costly home appliances to utilize. With split unit aircons costing as much as R5.50 to run per hour causing electrical bills to skyrocket during the summer months However, there are methods to minimize the quantity of energy you utilize.
Comparing A/C Running Costs to Other Household Appliances
Understanding the running costs of an air conditioning unit compared to other household appliances can help you manage your energy expenses more effectively. Here’s a look at the hourly costs of common appliances in a typical home:
- Refrigerator: R0.30 per hour
- Oven: R5.00 per hour
- Dishwasher: R1.70 per hour
- Air Conditioning (24000btu unit): R5.50 per hour
While a refrigerator operates continuously and might seem more expensive over the course of a year, during the summer months, an air conditioner can significantly add to your bills. For instance, if an air conditioner runs for 8 hours a day, it would cost about R44.00 daily. Over a month in summer, this adds up to approximately R1320. In contrast, a refrigerator costs about R7.20 daily, or R230 over a 30-day month, making the air conditioner nearly three times as costly during the hotter months.
Other appliances like washing machines and dishwashers are used less frequently, which keeps their costs lower in comparison. A washing machine might be used for about 3 hours a week, and a dishwasher typically runs for an hour a day. Even over an entire year, these appliances are unlikely to cost as much as an air conditioner used extensively over the summer.
The Impact of Energy Efficiency on Air Conditioning Costs
Air conditioners come with energy efficiency ratings ranging from 1 to 10 stars. A higher star rating generally means lower running costs. Here’s an example based on a ducted reverse-cycle air conditioning system used for heating a home for 6 hours a day over 4 months and cooling for 3 months a year:
- 5.0 Star Rating: Approximately R28576 per year
- 5.5 Star Rating: About R26376 per year
- 6.0 Star Rating: Around R24735 per year
- 7.0 Star Rating: Approximately R24135 per year
These costs are based on one brand and model of air conditioner; prices can vary with different brands and models. Installing a higher-rated air conditioner can lead to significant savings on energy bills, making it a crucial consideration for both budget-conscious and environmentally aware consumers.
How to Save on Energy Costs
Reducing energy costs doesn’t always mean sacrificing comfort. Here are some effective strategies to help you save on cooling expenses:
- Adjust Your Thermostat: Try increasing the thermostat setting by one degree at a time until it reaches a point that feels slightly too warm. Even a small adjustment can significantly reduce your energy consumption.
- Opt for Inverter Technology: If you’re in the market for a new air conditioner, consider choosing an inverter model. Inverter air conditioners are designed to be much more energy-efficient, potentially saving up to 40% on energy costs compared to traditional models. Need advice on choosing the right aircon? Speak to an Aircon Pro!
- Use Fans Instead of Air Conditioning: Think about whether you need to use the air conditioner every day. Fans, especially ceiling fans, are an excellent alternative for cooling a room. They consume far less electricity because they only need power to operate the fan itself, not to chill the air. Operating a ceiling fan costs just about 10 cents per hour, which is significantly lower than running an air conditioner.
Reducing Air Conditioning Costs: Why It Matters
While air conditioning can sometimes feel like a necessary indulgence, especially during hot weather, it’s important to consider the long-term costs associated with its use. For example, operating a 7.0-star reverse cycle air conditioner might cost around R24,135 annually. Over a decade, this expense accumulates to approximately R241,350.
Here are a few effective ways to reduce your air conditioning costs:
- Adjust the Thermostat: Simply increasing the thermostat setting by two degrees can reduce your cooling costs by about 20%. Over ten years, this 20% saving could add up to R48,270. This small change can make a big difference without sacrificing comfort.
- Use Fans: On cooler days, or when the heat is bearable, opt for fans instead of air conditioning. Fans use significantly less electricity and can provide sufficient cooling for many situations, further reducing your energy bills.
- Choose Inverter Technology: If you’re in the market for a new air conditioner, consider an inverter model. These units are more efficient than traditional air conditioners and can save up to 40% on energy costs.
- Check the Energy Star Label: Always look at the Energy Star label when purchasing an air conditioner. This label not only shows the star rating but also details the amount of energy the unit consumes. Choosing a model with a high star rating and low energy consumption can lead to substantial savings.
By implementing these tips, you can enjoy the benefits of air conditioning without the hefty price tag, allowing you to use those savings for other important expenses.
Want to install a high-efficiency aircon? Contact Local Pros today and we will connect you to a trusted Airconditioning Expert near you!
