With Portugal preparing to face a new heat wave in the coming days, air conditioning is once again taking on a central role in homes. However, according to calculations by Selectra, its use can account for up to 15% of the monthly electricity bill.
With a reference to a 2.5 kW household appliance and an average electricity price of €0.1595/kWh, the cost varies significantly depending on usage time:
- 2 hours per day: about €24 per month;
- 8 hours per day: approximately €96 per month;
- 24 hours per day: more than €287 per month.
“Many households are not fully aware of how much the duration of air conditioning use influences the bill. The difference between using it for a few hours or keeping it on all day can amount to tens, or even hundreds, of euros per month,” explain experts from Selectra Portugal.
Efficient equipment helps reduce consumption
In addition to the number of hours of use, energy consumption depends on several factors, including:
- The power of the equipment;
- The energy class;
- The technology used;
- The size of the space to be cooled.
Models equipped with Inverter technology automatically adjust the power to the dwelling’s needs, enabling more efficient operation and contributing to reduced energy consumption.
Tips to reduce air conditioning consumption
To use air conditioning more efficiently and reduce the impact on the electricity bill, Selectra recommends:
- Set the temperature to 25 °C in summer. The energy consumption of air conditioning increases by about 7% for each additional degree Celsius;
- Use the ventilation or dehumidifier modes, which have lower consumption;
- Keep doors and windows closed during operation of the unit;
- Clean the filters regularly to ensure efficient performance;
- Opt for equipment with Inverter technology and a good energy rating. This technology automatically adjusts the required power and maintains stable climate control, unlike conventional systems that operate in on/off cycles and tend to consume more energy;
- On days with high temperatures, turn on the air conditioner during the cooler morning hours and keep blinds or shutters closed to reduce heat entry.
Selectra also provides a energy consumption calculator and informative content that allow consumers to estimate the costs associated with using air conditioning and identify ways to save energy.
