In recent years, summer temperatures have reached unprecedented levels in various regions of the world. According to data from the World Meteorological Organization, July 2024 was the warmest month recorded globally, with temperatures that exceeded the historical average by 1.5 °C.
This thermal increase has led to intensive use of air conditioning systems in homes, increasing energy consumption and, therefore, electricity bills.
For this reason, we present a guide on how to take advantage of the functions of the air conditioning to acclimatize the home in times of high temperatures, without considerably increasing energy consumption.
A lesser known but highly effective function of air conditioners is the “Dry” or dehumidifier mode. This mode focuses on reducing ambient humidity without excessively cooling the space.which is useful in humid climates where wind chill is exacerbated by high humidity.
By reducing humidity, thermal comfort is improved and the proliferation of mold and bacteria is prevented, contributing to a healthier environment.
“Dry” mode operates differently than standard cooling mode. While the “Cool” mode reduces the air temperature, “Dry” mode extracts moisture without significantly altering the room temperature.
This process consumes less energy, because the compressor works at a lower power and the fan operates at lower speeds. “Dry” mode can consume up to 30% less energy than “Cool” mode, although this percentage may vary depending on the model and environmental conditions.
For its part, the intensive use of air conditioning during the summer has a significant impact on energy consumption. Studies indicate that, on average, an air conditioner turned on between 7 and 8 hours a day can consume more than 140 kilowatt hours (kWh) per month.
This increase in energy demand not only affects domestic financesbut also has environmental implications, increasing greenhouse gas emissions associated with electricity generation.
To mitigate these effects, it is necessary to adopt practices for the efficient use of air conditioning. Maintaining the temperature between 24°C and 26°C in summer can reduce energy consumption.
In addition, using the “Dry” mode on high humidity days can improve the feeling of comfort without a significant increase in energy consumption. This mode is most effective in conditions of high humidity and moderate temperatures; on extremely hot daysthe standard cooling mode may be more appropriate.
Likewise, the energy efficiency of air conditioners depends on their maintenance and the characteristics of the space to be air-conditioned. Adequate insulationthe use of curtains or blinds to block solar radiation and natural ventilation during the cooler hours of the day can complement its use.
This mode contributes to the maintenance of appliances and furniture. In high humidity environmentsthese elements can absorb water from the air, causing long-term damage, such as swelling of wood or corrosion of electronic components.
Also, Dehumidification prevents the appearance of fungi and mitesimproving air quality and reducing the risk of allergies or respiratory problems.
Likewise, some modern models allow the “Dry” mode to be programmed automatically, optimizing its use according to the humidity levels detected in the environment, which reinforces its efficiency and comfort.
