The Ultimate Guide to Air Conditioner Usage: Avoid These Common Mistakes to Save Money and Protect Your Family’s Health

During scorching summer days or extreme heat waves, cooling devices such as fans and air conditioners become the center of attention and are frequently used in many households. Air conditioners are highly regarded for their ability to cool down spaces quickly and efficiently compared to traditional fans. The installation and operation of air conditioners are also relatively straightforward. However, many families still maintain a wrong habit when using this appliance.

This habit not only results in skyrocketing electricity bills but may also negatively impact the health of the users. The habit in question is setting the air conditioner temperature too low, around 20 degrees Celsius or even lower, when starting it up. After a short while or a few hours, when the space becomes uncomfortably cold, they then increase the temperature to a higher setting.

In reality, experts and the Vietnam Electricity Group (EVN) advise families against maintaining this habit regularly. This is especially important for households with children, elderly individuals, or those with weakened immune systems.

Firstly, we need to address the issue of high electricity consumption. Running the air conditioner at a low temperature, even for a short period, can significantly increase your electricity bill. This is because of the appliance’s operating mechanism: when set to a low temperature, the air conditioner uses maximum power to quickly and deeply cool the space, resulting in higher energy consumption.

Consequently, the appliance consumes more electricity. Moreover, if this situation persists for an extended period, especially during hot outdoor temperatures, the device may experience overload, produce loud noises, and potentially reduce its lifespan or even lead to dangerous situations such as short circuits. This principle applies to both conventional air conditioners and those equipped with Inverter technology.

Secondly, let’s discuss the health implications for the users. According to Health, the use of air conditioners can lead to a condition known as “air conditioning syndrome.” This condition can cause facial nerve paralysis, severely impacting the mobility of the facial muscles.

The situation worsens when individuals enter a cooled environment set at a low temperature after being exposed to hot or high-temperature spaces. Heat shock can occur, leading to mild symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, and, in more severe cases, potentially resulting in a stroke.

How to Use Air Conditioners Safely and Economically

Regarding the need for quick room cooling, setting the air conditioner to a lower temperature is indeed effective. However, EVN recommends that users set the temperature between 22-23 degrees Celsius and avoid going below 20 degrees. After about 15-20 minutes, gradually adjust the temperature to 25-26 or 27 degrees Celsius and maintain this setting.

EVN also suggests that, during nighttime sleep, the temperature should be set to 28 degrees Celsius, and the fan speed should be set to medium or low. This is because outdoor temperatures drop during the night, and our body temperature naturally decreases when we sleep. Utilizing the timer or Sleep mode on the air conditioner is also advisable, as it can protect your health and save energy.

In addition to the above recommendations, the following are some habits that users should maintain to ensure safe and economical air conditioner usage during the summer.

Limit Frequent Turning On and Off of the Air Conditioner

Instead of increasing the temperature when the room is already cool, many people turn off the air conditioner completely. When the room gets warm, they turn it on again. If repeated multiple times, this habit can triple the electricity bill. This is because each time the air conditioner is restarted, it requires three times the power compared to normal operation.

Avoid Constantly Adjusting the Temperature

Rather than increasing the temperature when the room is cool enough, some people choose to turn off the air conditioner. Then, when the room gets warm, they turn it on again. If this habit persists, it can cause a threefold increase in electricity costs. This happens because each time the air conditioner restarts, it requires three times the energy compared to its normal functioning.

Use the Air Conditioner in Conjunction with a Fan

When setting the air conditioner temperature at 25 degrees Celsius or higher, using a fan can help create a more refreshing environment. This not only enhances cooling efficiency but also saves energy and reduces the burden on the air conditioner.

Choose the Right Air Conditioner for Your Space

Lastly, it is crucial to select an air conditioner that matches the area of the space it will be used in. According to distributors, for a 15 sq. m room, a 9000 BTU – 1 HP air conditioner is sufficient; for a room between 15 and 20 sq. m, a 12000 BTU – 1.5 HP unit is recommended; and for spaces larger than 20 sq. m, opt for an 18000 BTU – 2 HP or higher capacity air conditioner. Choosing the right capacity ensures effective cooling without wasting electricity.