We all want to feel comfortable at home, but our extreme Australian weather often works against us. We have very hot, sometimes very wet, and also very cold weather. One of the best ways to combat these uncomfortable problems is by regulating the indoor temperature and humidity as much as possible – usually with air conditioning systems.
The problem is that air conditioning, cooling and heating, can be expensive at the best of times, but if we are not doing our best to let our air conditioning units do their job, prices can sky-rocket and our effect on the environment increases.
Our team at Coles Air Conditioning and Refrigeration have compiled a list of ways in which you can get the absolute best out of your air conditioning units, for the best value and most ecologically friendly results. Our Tips regarding air conditioners can be broken down into 4 categories:
Energy efficiency
Air conditioning settings
Non-air-conditioner tips
Servicing
Energy efficiency
- Energy Efficiency Rating
- Use Economy Mode



- Use Zones
- Use Doors Properly
Also, close the internal doors to rooms you are not using, so as to keep the conditioned air in and ensure that you are only conditioning the air in the rooms you need. However, open the doors of all rooms you want to effect, to allow air flow. If you reduce the available air flow, you reduce the efficiency of your air conditioning unit.
- Maintain Temperature During Waking Hours
- Know the Ideal Temperature
Air conditioning units will naturally lose efficiency when the external temperature is 36 degrees Celsius or higher, but this problem is exacerbated if your thermostat is set wildly different to the outside temperature, causing higher bills, a higher carbon footprint and increased wear and tear on the technology.
- Check Outside Temperature


- Turn It Off
- Keep the Sensor Clear
Air conditioning settings
- Fan Mode
- Snowflake Symbol
- Sunshine Symbol
- Auto Mode


- Dry (Dehumidifying) Mode
- Vertical and Horizontal Swing
Servicing
- Clean the Filter
The efficiency of your air conditioning relies on the steady, free flow of air. This is reduced when your filter is clogged with dust particles, which will naturally happen over time. Your air conditioning servicer can do this for you, or you can do it yourself. In your home, it is good practice to change your filter every month or so, 3 months at the latest.
Do your research, however. Different filters have different energy efficiency ratings and watch out, as ducted air conditioning systems usually have a washable filter, unless the filter is pleated, in which case it should be replaced.
- Listen
If your air conditioner is about to fail or is wearing, it will usually start to get louder. When this happens, call in an expert from a professional team like Coles Air Conditioning and Refrigeration.

Other tips
- Minimise Heat from the Sun
- Clear Obstructions
- Use Ceiling Fans or Draughts


Call a Specialist In
An air conditioning specialist such as Coles Air Conditioning and Refrigeration will maintain your machine to a very high standard and will also be able to spot potential problems with mechanical wear and tear that can lead to failures. This should be done at least once a year, to keep your machine running at an optimal level.
Don’t Neglect to maintain your indispensable air conditioning system – contact Coles Air Conditioning in Newcastle, NSW by visiting the website at colesrefrigeration.com.au, by emailing them with this online form or by calling (02) 4957 0221.