In the bustling city of Brisbane, where temperatures can soar during the summer months, the demand for efficient HVAC systems is more crucial than ever. Whether for homes or industrial facilities, managing the costs related to air conditioning becomes a significant concern for residents and business owners alike. Within this context, the importance of HVAC in Brisbane extends far beyond mere comfort and delves into issues of energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
A comprehensive HVAC maintenance plan can be the key to achieving this equilibrium between comfort and expense. Regular inspections, tune-ups, and necessary HVAC repairs can prolong the life of the system, enhance its performance, and help in identifying issues before they evolve into costly problems. It’s not merely about maintaining a pleasant temperature; it’s about understanding how the system works and taking proactive measures to ensure it runs optimally.
For those operating in the industrial sector, the stakes are even higher. An industrial air conditioning system must be robust, reliable, and capable of maintaining specific environmental conditions. The complexity and scale of these systems often mean that without a strategic approach to HVAC maintenance, the costs can escalate rapidly. The efficiency of an industrial air conditioning system is a multifaceted challenge that requires expertise in both the technical aspects and the understanding of how to make the system work best within the context of a particular industry’s requirements.
This article explores efficient ways to cut back on AC costs during the hot Brisbane summer. By delving into methods that suit both residential and industrial applications, it aims to provide practical insights into how thoughtful HVAC maintenance and repairs can lead to substantial savings. So, whether you’re looking to optimise your home cooling system or seeking ways to enhance the performance of a large-scale industrial air conditioning unit, the following guidelines could be the key to a cooler and more cost-effective summer.
Benefits of air conditioning
Aside from keeping us comfortable on a sweltering hot day, air conditioning is multi-beneficial.
- Protect your home and furniture by keeping heat and humidity levels at a minimum. Mould breeds rapidly in damp environments, and can quickly cause rot, and ruin leathers and fabrics.
- Provided you maintain your systems properly, when you’re using your aircons efficiently, you’re promoting better air quality. Air conditioners and HVAC systems filter and circulate air to remove mould and pollutants. In the hot months this is very important for asthma sufferers, and people with allergies.
- In “Exploring 167 years of vulnerability: An examination of extreme heat events in Australia 1844 – 2010,” scientists found heatwaves killed at least 5332 people in Australia. The heat was responsible for more deaths than all other natural hazards combined. Many of these deaths could have been prevented.
Why are your power bills so expensive?
Knowing about the different types of air conditioners and how they affect your usage is important; but the hike in our power bills during the warmer months may not be solely due to your aircon.
Culprit #1 – Your retailer
When deregulation of southeast retail prices came into effect in 2016, it boosted competition; but increased wholesale prices have had a flow on effect down to the consumer. Check whether your plan and any benefits or discounts it came with has expired, and shop around for a new plan to suit your needs. There are currently nine energy retailers operating under the Energex network, all with different plans and offers.
Culprit #2 – Your life
Often over the ‘silly season’ our homes are full to the brim with friends and family. The more people we have visiting, the more power we’re going to use. Hot water usage accounts for approximately 21% of an average Australian household’s energy usage, while appliances account for 23%.
Where can you save power? The top 5 ways of being energy efficient
1. Choose your air conditioners and appliances wisely
Out with the old. If you’re running old appliances, you’re likely burning considerable energy. It’s well worth the outlay to invest in new appliances with a high energy rating. The Australian Government now require Energy Rating Labels on new appliances, allowing consumers to compare running costs. Before deciding on a new appliance, run it through an energy rating calculator, you may be quite shocked at the difference between high and low rated products.
According to energy.gov, heating and cooling accounts for approximately 40% of our power usage, choosing the most efficient air conditioning system is a must. Ergon says that for each star your air conditioner has, you’ll save approximately 15% in running costs.
2. Minimise hot water usage
Summer is a great time to reduce your hot water consumption. By simply investing in an efficient 3-star rated showerhead, you could save approximately $328 per year according to Origin Energy. Combine this with reduced time spent in the shower, and you’ll see significant savings.
Wash your clothes in cold water, and rinse your dishes in cold water before putting them in the dishwasher. Turn your dishwasher off prior to the drying cycle to let them air dry.
3. Reduce energy waste from your appliances
- You can save almost $100 per year simply by turning your TV, Computer, modem and printer, and washing machine off at the wall when not in use.
- Switch to a gas stove if you can; but if you’re stuck with an electric unit, keeping a lid on simmering pots can reduce your energy use by up to 70%.
- Check the seals on your oven, fridge and freezer are in good condition to prevent hot and cool air escaping.
- Save $130 per year off your bill by ditching the dryer and line-drying your clothes.
4. Switch to LED
With a saving of up to 80% of energy per light bulb, switching to LED is a no-brainer. Get into the habit of turning off the lights as you exit a room, and invest in motion sensors for your outside lighting, so you don’t have to worry about remembering to switch them off.
5. Support your aircons and use them efficiently
- When it’s time to switch on the AC (to 24 degrees), put your ceiling fans on low also. They use little power while boosting the effectiveness of your air conditioners by helping circulate the cool air.
- Close your curtains during the day in rooms that aren’t in use to help deflect heat and keep doors and windows closed when your AC is running. If you have any breezy windows or doors, consider installing weather strips to keep the cool air in.
- Install a smart thermostat. Increase your control with a programmable thermostat, so you can manage your ACs from afar. Have you ever gone out and forgotten to turn off the aircon? With a smart thermostat you can turn it off from your mobile phone.
- Maintain and service your ACs. By having a professional technician service your air conditioners prior to the onset of summer, you’re guaranteeing optimal performance, and cleaner air for your family. The pro’s will also identify and rectify any possible faults, or problems that may result in a high power usage.
The good news is, your electricity bill is not completely out of your control. You have the power to keep it down by choosing appliances wisely, and being mindful of your overall electrical usage during the summer months. While some good power habits will take some time getting used to, it’s well worth the effort so you don’t have to sacrifice your health during the heat.
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Air-rite Solutions specialises in the installation and maintenance of industrial, residential and commercial air conditioning. Air-rite Solutions is also committed to servicing mechanical ventilation and refrigeration equipment. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
