Heat waves are typically defined as an unusually high maximum and minimum temperature which remains for three or more days. They can make life extremely uncomfortable and hazardous to our health and wellbeing if the proper precautions are not taken. During a heat wave it is best to stay indoors and use your air conditioning system to stay cool. However, there are some important tips to consider to maintain comfort while ensuring your air conditioner is running efficiently and keeping electricity bills in check.

Keep the indoor and outdoor unit clean

Dust and debris can build-up on both the indoor and outdoor unit, restricting airflow. This can cause the system to work harder, leading to higher energy usage, increased running costs and ineffective output. Be sure to wipe the unit down, keep the indoor filters clean and remove anything that could cause further obstructions and build up.

Don’t set the temperature too low

Setting the temperature above 23 degrees celsius is the best way to create a comfortable environment whilst minimising energy consumption. During a heat wave, the air conditioner will be working harder to keep the home cool, so setting the temperature too low can put pressure on the unit by making it work harder for longer to try to achieve the desired temperature.

Use built in programs and features to reduce energy output

Fujitsu General air conditioners have a range of helpful programs to help control indoor temperature during a heat wave.

On particularly hot days, use program timers to start the air conditioner before the outside temperature gets too hot. Switching the air conditioner on during the hottest part of the day means it needs to work much harder, and takes longer to cool down the home.

Using economy mode is a good way to reduce excessive power consumption. Economy, or eco modes, use about 70 per cent of the compressor which helps ensure the maintenance and longevity of your system.

When unusually high night and daytime temperatures persist during a heat wave, heat stress becomes a critical factor in human health. Hot nights make it harder to recover from the heat of the day and this puts more stress on the body[1].

That is why sleep mode is a useful feature. To avoid getting too hot the night, the sleep timer function automatically modifies the temperature setting in accordance with the set time. When in cooling mode, a Fujitsu General unit will automatically raise is temperature 1°C every sixty minutes until it has increased a total of 2°C. Similar to economy mode, this allows your unit to control the temperature while you’re asleep, keeping you comfortable while maintaining suitable output.

If you have ducted using the new features of anywAiR® Technology Ducted Controller App may also assist.  The new SleepEconomiser feature will automatically adjust your air conditioner from COOL to FAN mode overnight from 10pm to 6am, it will then adjust itself back. This mode will save energy during hot nights and help reduce noise for sleeping neighbours.

If you have a spit system using the  new features of anywAiR® technology Wi-Fi adaptor may also assist. With voice assistant friendly technology, geofencing, climate react, automation, and more, the Wi-Fi adaptor II lets users implement energy efficiency strategies without sacrificing home comfort.

To learn how to optimise the use of your air conditioner’s dry mode setting, you can find your unit’s product operating manual at www.fujitsugeneral.com.au/help-centre/product-manuals

For more information, visit www.fujitsugeneral.com.au or contact Fujitsu General on 1300 882 201.

[1] https://www.climatechange.environment.nsw.gov.au/heatwaves