The seven most common mistakes when using air conditioning

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With warmer temperatures, air conditioning is more likely to be used, but it is essential to take a few precautions when using it to avoid having to pay a (much) ‘heavier’ bill.

With this in mind, Selectra, the energy and telecoms price comparison platform, highlights the seven most common mistakes when using air conditioning. Take note:

1. Choosing very low temperatures - ‘The first thing you do when you get home is switch on the air conditioning at the minimum temperature? Then avoid doing it again because, as much as it's an attractive idea, it also means the motor has to work harder to reach the chosen temperature and therefore consumes more energy.’
2. Not cleaning the filters regularly - ‘Did you know that not cleaning your filters could be reflected in your bills? Yes, that's right! A dirty filter jeopardises the quality of ventilation and, in turn, the efficiency of the equipment.’
3. Lack of annual air conditioning maintenance - ‘Have you never called a technician to inspect the condition of your air conditioning? Then perhaps it's time to do so, since preventive maintenance of the appliance prevents possible breakdowns and confirms that it is in fact working at 100 per cent.’
4. Underestimating the importance of the thermostat - ‘By acting in compartments, the thermostat makes it possible to control the temperature of each compartment and thus avoid wasting energy.’
5. Not using the fan - ‘Simultaneous operation of the air conditioning and the fan can be very effective, especially in larger areas, as it will help to reach the desired temperature more quickly and thus reduce the energy consumption of the first appliance.’
6. Using the oven or hairdryer on hot days - ‘It may seem like a harmless gesture, but believe me it can make a difference to your bill at the end of the month, as the use of this type of appliance results in a circulation of hot air and ends up requiring more effort on the part of the air conditioning to counteract the temperatures.’
7. Not paying attention to the air vents in the house - ‘In order to maintain a constant temperature inside a space, there must be no air ingress or egress. In this sense, make sure that all the windows are closed and that there are no openings that are affecting the air conditioning's energy efficiency.’

Hotter days? Five tips for keeping your home cool in summer

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With summer upon us, the hottest days are already upon us and many people are looking for alternatives to keep their homes cool without increasing their energy bills.

‘We'd all like to have a magic formula to cool our homes instantly and enjoy fresher spaces, but in reality we have a real ally, essential for creating the right home environment: air conditioning,’ says Hisense, in a statement sent to the press. Notícias ao Minuto.

The company also has five tips that can help keep your home cooler even on hot days. Take note:

1. Set the temperature in your home – ‘The general recommendation is to keep the temperature of the air conditioning at home in summer between 23°C and 26°C. Running the air conditioning at low temperatures not only affects general well-being, but also has a direct impact on the wear and tear of the equipment and, of course, on the monthly electricity bill.’
2. Use airflow in interior spaces – ‘The air flow in the house ensures optimum comfort in the rooms. Also set the units for automatic oscillation, ideally horizontal and vertical, and for long-distance airflow in order to optimise air distribution to all points of the rooms to be air-conditioned.’
3. Prevent hot air from entering from outside – ‘To prevent heat from entering our homes during the hottest hours, or to avoid heat sources in the house, lower the blinds, close the windows and avoid using the oven. These three simple gestures are especially important during the day, when temperatures are at their highest. We recommend opening windows and ventilating rooms early in the morning or early in the evening when temperatures drop.’
4. Keep the air fresh and clean of bacteria – ‘Since you keep your house closed up during the day, it's important to ensure that the air inside is fresh, clean and healthy. Today we have a wide range of air conditioning solutions available that are also designed to purify the air.’
5. Keep the temperature stable without switching the air conditioning on and off – ‘Contrary to popular belief, to save energy it is recommended to keep the air conditioning running, rather than switching it off and on frequently. Naturally, when you are away for long periods of the day, you should switch it off. During the night, you should and can keep the air conditioning on, choosing the ‘sleep’ mode that best suits you, so that you can sleep well, without feeling cold or hot.’

15 years IMEG GROUP | The party

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On 1st June we marked our 15th anniversary. 15 years of effort, dedication and, above all, achievements.

15 years of deep gratitude to those who have helped us and continue to help us chart this path, of which we are very proud.

Here are some photos from the celebrations, which took place in Porto on 4 June.