How to save money on air conditioning costs in Portugal: 10 mistakes to avoid

Keeping your house cool in Portugal's hot summer weather is no easy task. Many people find air conditioning to be the solution, but using it incorrectly can make your electricity bill skyrocket. If you use air conditioning every day for a month during the summer for example, you might see an increase in your electricity bill of around 30 euros. However, there are ways to save money on air conditioning costs in Portugal. 

There are several mistakes we make on a daily basis without realising when it comes to using air conditioning, but however small they may seem, they really do have an impact on energy consumption and household bills. And that's why Selectra, a company specialising in comparing energy and telecommunications tariffs, has put together the most common mistakes in using air conditioning that could be increasing the price your electricity bill in Portugal. Check out these top 10 mistakes to avoid so that your electricity bill doesn't go through the roof.

Choosing temperatures that are too low

How many times have you come home in the heat and the first thing you do is turn on the air conditioning to the minimum temperature? As much as this seems like a good idea, this implies a greater effort from the motor to reach the chosen temperature and, therefore, greater energy consumption. For cooling systems, the recommended temperature should be between 24ºC and 26ºC.

Not cleaning the filters regularly

If you are one of those people who is always putting off cleaning your air conditioning, you should know that this could be reflected in your bills. This is because a dirty filter impairs the quality of ventilation and in turn, the efficiency of the equipment.

Lack of annual air conditioning maintenance

When was the last time you called a technician to inspect the condition of your air conditioning? If you can't remember, then it might be time to do so. It is advisable to opt for preventive maintenance of the appliance, avoiding possible breakdowns and finding out if, in fact, it is working efficiently.

Underestimating the importance of the thermostat

Cooling empty or ventilated rooms is a waste of energy and it is in this sense that the thermostat can be your greatest ally, since it acts by compartments and can thus control the temperature you want in each space.

Not using a fan

Even if you have just installed air conditioning, don't say goodbye to fans! Simultaneous operation of the two pieces of equipment can be very effective, especially in larger areas, as it will help you reach the desired temperature faster and thus decrease the energy consumption of the air conditioning.

Installing air conditioning in places with direct sunlight

When it comes to choosing a place to install the air conditioning, the tendency is to opt for the most hidden corners of the house, never thinking about whether or not it will be exposed to direct sunlight. However, this should be a fundamental concern, since if it's exposed in hotter places, more energy will be needed to cool the space.

Using the oven or dryer on very hot days

Here the logic is the same: the use of these appliances, results in the circulation of hot air, requiring more effort from the appliance to counterbalance temperatures. It may seem like a harmless gesture, but believe us, it can make a difference in your bill at the end of the month.

Not paying attention to air vents in the house

To keep the temperature constant inside a space, it is necessary that there is no air entering or leaving the room from outside. Make sure you have all the windows closed and that there are no openings that are affecting the proper energy functioning of the air conditioning.

Ignoring the de-humidification mode

Although it's the summer season, there are always days when humidity can be felt with certain intensity in Portugal. Try turning on this mode first instead of the cooling mode and check what is really the source of your discomfort, the heat or the humidity.

Buying a model with low energy efficiency

The purchase and installation of an air conditioner is a big investment and, therefore, some doubts may arise if the choice you are making is the right one. There are several factors that influence this decision, but there is one that we consider essential: choosing a model with high energy efficiency. It may not always be the cheapest option, but in the long run it will be reflected in greater savings in your wallet.