Weak Air Conditioning Fan Speed Actually Uses More Power! Taipower Debunks 7 Summer Electricity-Saving Myths: Cool Down Faster and Save Money with Just 'One Button'

During the scorching summer, many people's first action upon returning home is to turn on the air conditioner. But how can you stay cool and save electricity at the same time? Taipower points out that many believe setting the AC to 'weak wind' saves energy, but in reality, it may have the opposite effect. Additionally, there's no need to immediately turn off the AC during short outings—keeping it running for absences under 30 minutes may be more efficient.

On the 18th, Taipower held a press conference at the Ministry of Economic Affairs titled 'Debunking 7 Summer Electricity-Saving Myths,' clarifying popular online tips about air conditioner efficiency. According to Taipower, air conditioning is a major source of household electricity consumption in summer. To reduce electricity bills, the key isn't just enduring higher temperatures or reducing usage, but mastering the correct usage methods.

It is recommended to set the air conditioner temperature between 26 and 28 degrees Celsius and pair it with electric fans or circulation fans to improve air flow. Additionally, clean the filter every two to three weeks to prevent dust and lint from clogging the system and reducing cooling efficiency.

Setting the AC to 'weak wind' does not save electricity

Many people intentionally set their air conditioner to 'weak wind' to save power, but Taipower states this is a common misconception. When airflow is reduced, less air passes through the indoor unit, meaning it takes longer for the room to reach the set temperature, potentially increasing the compressor's workload.

Therefore, after turning on the AC, it's better to use 'auto mode,' allowing the unit to automatically adjust fan speed based on indoor temperature. If you come home on a hot afternoon and feel the room isn't cool enough, don't rush to lower the temperature setting. Instead, Taipower suggests first switching the fan speed to 'strong wind' to increase air circulation and lower perceived temperature—this is more energy-efficient than directly lowering the temperature.

For nighttime use, many people set timers to save electricity but may wake up sweating in the middle of the night. On the other hand, maintaining the same temperature all night might make you feel too cold later. Taipower recommends using the AC's 'sleep mode,' which gradually raises the set temperature by 1–2 degrees after falling asleep, maintaining comfort while reducing unnecessary power consumption.

Should you turn off the AC during short outings?

Another common question is whether to turn off the AC when leaving for a short time. Taipower explains that while inverter ACs aren't necessarily more efficient by running continuously, frequently turning them on and off isn't optimal either. If you're leaving for less than 30 minutes, consider keeping the AC running. For longer absences, it's still recommended to turn it off to avoid continuous power consumption.

Pairing air conditioners with circulation fans is a common summer cooling method, but fan placement matters. Taipower suggests placing the circulation fan under the AC's air outlet, directing it toward the center of the room at a 45-degree upward angle to promote air circulation and distribute cool air more evenly.

Due to Taiwan's humid summers, many people use the AC's 'dehumidifying mode,' believing it cools and dehumidifies simultaneously. However, Taipower warns that if the primary goal is reducing indoor humidity, the AC's dehumidifying mode consumes more power than a dedicated dehumidifier, as the compressor may run at higher power for extended periods. For pure dehumidification, using a dehumidifier is more energy-efficient.

Regarding the online rumor that 'an AC not cooling properly may be due to unstable voltage,' Taipower clarifies that if voltage were truly unstable, the AC might not start at all. If the unit starts and runs normally, the voltage is within the acceptable operating range.

If your AC isn't cooling well, start with simple checks at home: inspect and clean the filter, and confirm whether the AC capacity matches your room size and needs. If issues persist after basic checks, contact the manufacturer or a professional technician.

Taipower emphasizes that the energy efficiency of the AC unit itself is also crucial. When purchasing a new unit, prioritize products with a 'Grade 1' energy efficiency rating. During use, keep doors and windows closed, clean filters regularly, and use fans to promote air circulation, preventing the AC from working inefficiently.

According to Taipower's statistics, by 2025, residential users are expected to save 1.8 billion kWh of electricity—equivalent to the annual consumption of about 500,000 households—and reduce carbon emissions by approximately 840,000 metric tons.

For most households, saving on summer electricity bills doesn't mean only 'using the AC less.' By avoiding unnecessarily weak fan speeds, maintaining temperatures at 26–28°C, not frequently turning the AC on and off during brief outings, and cleaning filters every 2–3 weeks, you can reduce unnecessary household electricity consumption through simple daily habits.