How to Run Your TURBRO Mini Split AC Efficiently to Save Energy Costs

August 13, 2024

When it comes to cooling your home efficiently and keeping energy costs down, how you use your TURBRO mini split AC plays a crucial role. Here are some practical tips and energy-saving suggestions to help you get the most out of your air conditioning system without breaking the bank.

Energy-Saving Suggestions

1. Avoid Frequent Short-Term On/Off Cycles

Repeatedly turning your AC on and off within a short period can consume a lot of power. This is because the compressor has to work harder to reach the desired temperature every time it restarts, leading to higher energy consumption. Instead, aim to maintain a consistent temperature setting. If you need to turn off the AC, try to avoid turning it back on for the next hour.

2. Independent Use vs. Connecting Rooms

If the space you’re cooling is close to the air conditioner's rated capacity, it’s more energy-efficient to use the AC independently in that room. Connecting rooms may increase the high-frequency operation time of the air conditioner, thereby increasing energy consumption.

However, if your living room and bedroom are not particularly large and the distance between them is short, using the AC to cool connected rooms could reduce energy consumption. In this scenario, keeping doors open to cool multiple rooms simultaneously might be more efficient.

3. Set the Target Temperature Between 75-80°F (24-27°C)

A target temperature of 75-80°F is recommended for optimal energy savings. This range provides a comfortable indoor environment while reducing the workload on your air conditioner. The higher the temperature setting (within your comfort range), the less energy your AC will use.

Additional Tips for Efficient AC Use

1. Adjust the Temperature

During the summer, set your thermostat to a higher temperature, such as 78°F (25.5°C), when you’re at home, and lower it slightly at night for sleeping comfort. A programmable thermostat can help automatically adjust the temperature based on your daily routine, further optimizing energy use.

2. Reduce Sunlight

Sunlight streaming through windows can significantly increase indoor temperatures, causing your AC to work harder. Use shades or curtains to block out heat during the day and open windows at night to let in cooler air.

3. Improve Airflow

Ensure that air intake vents are clear by vacuuming them regularly and keeping furniture and other objects from blocking airflow. For outdoor units, keep the area around the condenser coil clean and trim back any nearby plants and foliage to enhance airflow.

4. Maintain Your AC

Regular maintenance is key to keeping your AC running efficiently. Clean or replace air filters regularly, as clogged filters can reduce efficiency by 5–15%. Additionally, check and clean the evaporator coil annually to maintain optimal performance.

5. Use Other Appliances Wisely

Ceiling fans can help circulate air, allowing you to set the thermostat higher while still staying comfortable. Opt for cooler lighting options and use natural daylight instead of artificial lighting to reduce heat generation. Also, try to minimize the use of stoves or ovens during the hottest parts of the day, as they can increase indoor temperatures and make your AC work harder.

Real World Scenario: How to Efficiently Use Multiple Air Conditioners

Scenario

James has two TURBRO Greenland mini split units, one in the bedroom, and another in the living room. He was wondering whether it’s more energy-efficient to open all the doors in the house and let the air conditioners run all day rather than turning the air conditioner on and off repeatedly. James mentioned that they typically turn on the bedroom AC at night and the living room AC in the afternoon, with the other units only being used as needed.

Answer

Running all the air conditioners with doors open to cool the entire house may not be the most energy-efficient approach. Here’s why:

Energy Consumption: Running multiple AC units all day can lead to higher energy consumption, especially if the rooms are not in constant use. Each unit will have to maintain its temperature setting, which could be costly over time.
Frequent On/Off Cycles: While it’s true that frequent short-term on/off cycles can be energy-intensive, running the AC units only when needed is typically more efficient than running them all day with doors open. This is especially the case if you are cooling large spaces or rooms that are not frequently used.

Recommendation:

Use the AC Where It’s Needed: Turn on the AC in the bedroom at night and in the living room in the afternoon, as you currently do. Only use other units when necessary. This targeted use will help you save on energy costs.
Consider Airflow: If your living room and bedroom are nearby and on the same floor, you could experiment with keeping the doors open to see if one AC can adequately cool both spaces. However, this might only be efficient if the rooms are small, the cooling demand is low, and the running unit has a high enough BTU capacity to cool such a large square footage area.

Ultimately, the best strategy is to balance comfort with energy efficiency by using your AC units only when and where they’re needed and avoiding running them all simultaneously unless absolutely necessary.