Smarter Heating: Finding the Sweet Spot for Your Reverse Cycle Air Con This Winter
While reverse cycle air conditioners are a popular and often cost-effective way to keep homes warm during the Australian winter, simply cranking up the thermostat isn’t the most efficient approach. Experts are highlighting a specific temperature sweet spot that can significantly reduce electricity consumption while maintaining a comfortable living environment.
The key takeaway is that every degree you push your air conditioner above the ambient outside temperature translates to a substantial increase in energy costs, typically ranging from five to 10 per cent. This means that a seemingly small adjustment on your thermostat can have a noticeable impact on your energy bills.
The Ideal Winter Thermostat Setting
The recommended temperature range for your reverse cycle air conditioner during the cooler months is between 18 and 20 degrees Celsius. This range is considered a balance between comfort and economic efficiency.
Dani Alexander, CEO of the UNSW Energy Institute, emphasises the importance of this approach. “As much as you can dress for the weather and then heat on top of that, reducing the degrees will really have a positive impact on your bills,” she explains. “In summer we’d say you cool down to 24 or so, but in winter you’re heating up to 18 to 20 degrees because that’s a degree of comfort that delivers a good economic outcome. It’s not too expensive and it doesn’t put as much pressure on the electricity network if everyone is heating at the same time.”
While 18 to 20 degrees might not sound as toasty as some might prefer, it becomes more effective when combined with strategies to improve your home’s ability to retain heat and by dressing appropriately for the season.
Maximising Heat Retention in Your Home
For those with less-than-ideal home insulation, several simple yet effective hacks can help keep the warmth generated by your air conditioner where you need it:
- Curtains are your friends: Ensure you close thick curtains, especially when the air conditioner is running. This acts as a barrier, preventing heat from escaping through your windows.
- Rugs on cold floors: Hard, cold floors can significantly chill a room. Adding rugs can provide an insulating layer and make the space feel warmer underfoot.
- Draught-proofing: Seal any gaps or drafts around doors and windows. Draught stoppers placed at the bottom of doors and weather stripping or tape around frames can make a big difference.
- Zone heating: Close the doors to rooms you aren’t using. This concentrates the heated air in the occupied spaces, making them warmer and more efficient.
“Heat the Person, Not the Room” Strategies
Beyond structural improvements, adopting a “heat the person, not the room” mentality can further boost efficiency. Kel Lupis, a home energy efficiency specialist with the CSIRO, suggests:
- Heated throws: A cosy heated throw can provide targeted warmth when you’re relaxing on the couch or in your favourite chair, negating the need to heat the entire room to a higher temperature.
- Electric blankets: The humble electric blanket remains an incredibly energy-efficient way to warm up your bed before you get in, offering a much more economical alternative to heating the entire bedroom all night.
If you find yourself feeling a bit chilly while waiting for a room to warm up, consider layering up with slippers, a dressing gown, or a fleece-lined jacket. Pre-heating a space for more than five minutes before you enter it is generally not recommended from an energy-saving perspective.
When and Where to Heat
The decision of when to use your air conditioner for heating will depend on various factors, including your local climate, the time of day, and whether the house is occupied. However, the overarching expert advice is to only heat the rooms you are actively using.
Lupis elaborates, “Heater use in Australia varies by climate, home design and insulation, so it’s best to run it based on what feels comfortable rather than sticking to fixed hours. Aim to heat only when you’re using the space and adjust the thermostat to a comfortable level instead of letting it run continuously.”
He also advises, “As a general rule, avoid running heaters overnight and use bedding and clothing for warmth instead.”
Don’t Forget the Filters!
Even with the most precise thermostat settings and excellent home insulation, your air conditioner’s efficiency can be severely hampered by dirty filters. When filters become clogged with dust and debris, the unit has to work significantly harder to circulate and heat air.
- DIY Filter Cleaning: You can typically clean your air conditioner filters yourself. This usually involves carefully dusting or brushing off loose debris, followed by washing them in warm, soapy water. Ensure they are thoroughly dried before reinserting them.
- Professional Servicing: For a more thorough clean or if you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, professional cleaning services are available.
- Regular Servicing: Beyond filter cleaning, it’s also a good practice to have your air conditioner professionally serviced occasionally. This ensures all components are functioning optimally, which contributes to both efficiency and longevity.
By implementing these smart heating strategies, Australians can enjoy a comfortable winter while keeping a closer eye on their electricity consumption and bills.
