Air conditioners

In regional Queensland, air conditioning is often a necessity, not a luxury. While aircons can be one of the biggest energy users in your home, a few smart choices can make a big difference to your comfort and your power bill.

Air conditioner energy‑saving tips

Set the right temperature

25°C in summer is your sweet spot
Every degree cooler in summer can add around 10% to your running costs
18°C in winter gives a good balance of comfort and efficiency.

Choose the right size

Make sure your aircon suits the room size
Factors like window direction, ceiling height and insulation all matter.

Look for more stars

Aircons with a higher energy star rating are cheaper to run
Each extra star can save around 15% on running costs.

Keep it maintained

Clean filters and coils regularly, especially before summer
A clean aircon runs better and uses less energy.

Cooling tips that save you money

Close doors, windows and curtains in rooms you’re cooling
Use fans to circulate cool air (remember, fans cool people, not rooms – turn them off when no one’s there)
Use the air recirculate setting so you’re not cooling hot outside air
Turn the aircon off when you’re out – it usually only takes about 20 minutes to cool down when you return
If the weather allows, create cross breezes and use fans instead.

Heating tips for cooler weather

Fix door seals and block gaps to stop heat escaping
Only heat rooms that are being used
Rug up first and check for drafts before turning the heater on.

Types of air conditioners

If you’re buying new or upgrading, choosing the right system can help you save money long‑term.

Split system air conditioners

A popular choice for most homes. They’re quieter and generally more energy efficient.

Options include:

Single‑head systems – ideal for one room
Multi‑head systems – multiple rooms, one outdoor unit
Ducted systems – whole‑home cooling and heating (higher running costs)

Ducted systems are often more economical and easier to install during new home builds or major renovations. However, because they cool or heat the whole house, they can cost more to run over time compared to using split systems in individual rooms.

Some split systems use inverter technology, which adjusts output as the room reaches temperature. This can help reduce energy use once you’re comfortable.

Window box air conditioners

Best for single rooms or small spaces.

Set to 25°C or higher
If it runs constantly, try a slightly warmer setting
Clean the filter regularly
Make sure it’s well sealed to keep warm air out.

Portable air conditioners

Handy if you don’t have an installed unit, but keep running costs in mind.

Can cost 2–3 times more to run than split or box aircons with similar cooling capacity
Set to 25°C or higher
Seal the exhaust hose properly
Keep it out of direct sunlight and away from hot walls.

Stay cool & save with these quick tips!✅

Here’s an easy way to remember how to keep cool without blowing your energy bill:

C – Close curtains, windows, and doors each day

O – Only cool rooms where you stay

O – Off when you’re out or away

L – Leave it at 25 degrees, it’s the savvy way!

Stay cool, save money, and keep your aircon running like a champ!

Want to learn more?

For more detailed information on energy star ratings and heating and cooling, visit the Energy Rating website or the Australian Government Energy website.