Have you already started running your air-conditioning to tackle the increasingly humid heat?
According to Hong Kong Energy End-Use Data of the Electrical and Mechanical Service Department of Hong Kong (EMSD), nearly 40 percent of the total residential electricity consumption in 2020 was used for air conditioning.
Therefore, choosing an air conditioner with high energy efficiency will help save energy and your electricity bill.
The Consumer Council tested 13 of the market’s 1.5 horsepower, variable frequency, and fixed-frequency net cooling window air conditioners.
Of all the tested air conditioners, ten were variable frequency models costing between HK$4,790 and HK$9,780, whereas the three remaining models were fixed-frequency models priced from HK$5,340 to HK$6,650.
Variable-frequency drive, or adjustable-speed drive, is a compressor’s ability to control and adjust speed automatically within a specific range. It usually runs at a higher speed when switched on.
The running speed will automatically lower when the room temperature is near the preset temperature.
The test results revealed that the overall performance of the variable-frequency AC samples was better.
Two scored 4.5 points in the overall evaluation, including General and Gree.
Variable frequency-based air conditioners save 27 percent more energy than the fixed-frequency type.
The higher the cooling seasonal performance factor (CSPF) value, the more energy efficient it is.
The average value of a fixed-frequency CSPF is only 3.163, while the CSPF value of an average variable frequency can reach up to 4.331.
In comparison, the air conditioner samples with the highest value can save up to 37.1 percent.
The Consumer Council advised air-conditioning manufacturers to diligently improve their cooling devices’ quality control and energy efficiency. It has also notified the EMSD of the test results.
Although four adjustable-frequency AC samples have received the same level 1 energy label, their energy efficiency difference can vary up to 12.4 percent.
Only Panasonic and Rasonic AC samples received a level 2 energy label.
However, the numbers are still within the Mandatory Energy Efficiency Labeling Scheme (MEELS) through the Energy Efficiency (Labeling of Products) Ordinance and the international customary practices. So neither of the samples violated the relevant requirements.
In addition, the cooling capacity of eight of the 13 samples is 0.2 percent to 5.7 percent lower than its advertised values.
The Consumer Council pointed out that if the gap in the actual energy efficiency is far beyond consumers’ reasonable expectations, then the relevant manufacturers are responsible for making improvements accordingly.
Other than the duration of usage and its cooling temperature, other factors such as a humid environment, larger room area, and unsealed windows and doors can spike the electricity bills.
The number of people indoors and the usage of multiple electric appliances at the same time can also cost more energy and money.
The Consumer Council recommends consumers observe their household electricity bills and consumption. It is also vital to monitor the habit of electricity usage to reduce expenses on their monthly bills.
Another way to save money is to leave a fan on while using the air conditioner. The Consumer Council said to avoid turning the temperature too low.
During summertime, clean air filters and ventilation outlets every two weeks to maintain adequate performance.
