How to Effectively Use Your Inverter AC in Winter

In the cool winter months, an air conditioner with inverter technology can take your home's comfort and energy efficiency to game-changing new heights. 

Though most people instantly associate air conditioning with cooling, inverter models also provide reliable and cost-effective heating through reverse-cycle technology. They’re quick to deliver much-needed warmth to your room (or indeed your whole home), maintain a steady temperature, and don’t guzzle electricity like many older units. 

If you’ve got an inverter air conditioner at home, it’s worth learning how to get the most out of it as the winter chill really sets in. With a few simple adjustments, you can stay warm, save on energy bills and keep your system running smoothly all season.

Inverter vs Non-Inverter Models 

First of all, the existence of an inverter air conditioner rightfully implies that non-inverter aircon systems also exist. So how do the two differ?

Simply put, the compressor in a non-inverter model runs at full speed as the unit works to reach your desired room temperature. Once it hits that mark, the compressor shuts off completely until the temperature falls and it needs to kick in again. In short, the compressor knows only two modes - on and off. 

On the other hand, an inverter air conditioner constantly runs but will slow down the compressor rather than shut it down to maintain your desired temperature. The absence of on-off cycling enables it to run more smoothly and efficiently, giving you consistent warmth without the energy spikes.

The next-level responsiveness of inverter AC technology means it’s better able to adapt to temperature changes and keep your home warm in winter with minimal effort or waste.

How an Inverter Air Conditioner Works in Heating Mode

To reiterate, an inverter AC with reverse cycle technology will heat your home in winter just as capably as it cools in summer. 

Unlike your more familiar gas heater that burns energy to produce warmth, a reverse cycle inverter AC draws heat from the outside air. It can even do so when it’s cold. The unit then uses refrigerant gas and a compressor to transfer that heat indoors, all to get your home toasty warm. 

Energy-Saving Features Worth Using

Your inverter AC probably has a few features that can help you stay warm without blowing the budget. Make sure you’re using these:

• Eco mode: Cuts energy use by slowing down the compressor while keeping your desired temperature.

• Sleep mode: Slowly adjusts the temperature while you sleep. You stay comfy all while using less power.

• Timer functions: let you set when the unit turns on or off so it’s not running when you don’t need it.

• Zone control: If available, this enables you to heat specific rooms instead of your whole home.

Taking advantage of these features allows you to stay warm and cut down on energy waste. Win-win! 

Set the Right Temperature for Comfort and Efficiency

If you want to keep your power bills low and your comfort level high - and who doesn’t want that? - setting the temperature just right for winter makes all the difference. 

The Australian Government’s Energy website recommends setting your thermostat between 18°C and 20°C. It provides the comforting warmth you need without putting unnecessary stress on the system or wasting energy. Bumping up the temperature won’t heat the room any faster—it just forces your air conditioner to work harder and longer which means higher running costs. 

The combination of a sensible temperature setting and making the following small changes to your heating practices can keep your home warm without blowing the budget.

Use These Smart Tips to Stay Warm

A few simple habits can help your inverter AC run more efficiently and keep your home warm without wasting energy. Try these smart yet simple tips to get the most out of your system this winter:

• Close doors and windows to stop warm air from escaping and cold drafts from entering.

• Use curtains or blinds at night to add insulation and reduce heat loss through glass.

• Clean or replace your filters regularly to keep airflow efficient and effective. 

• Program the timer to turn the aircon on before you wake up or come home from work.

• Remove any obstructions or blockages from the indoor and outdoor units to maintain uninterrupted airflow. 

By following these tips, you’ll keep comfortably warm and your energy bills low.

Maintenance Matters For A High-Performance Inverter AC

Consistent maintenance is one of the best ways to keep your inverter AC running smoothly through winter. 

Air conditioning filters clogged with dust and dirt impede the system’s airflow, so your unit must work harder to warm your home. But by cleaning your washable filters every few weeks, or replacing disposable filters regularly, you can make a significant difference to the performance of your air conditioner. 

Keep your senses primed for any strange smells, rattling sounds or leaks. These generally point to an underlying issue that often needs urgent attention. And for any essential professional servicing, always use a licensed air conditioning technician.

Looking after your system and giving it a little love means it’ll be efficient, last longer and keep your home warm when you need it most.

Common Mistakes to Avoid This Winter

In the quest for ultimate winter comfort, falling into a few bad habits with your inverter air conditioner is not uncommon. But it’s well worth the effort to try and avoid them if you want to positively affect your energy use. Here are a few to keep in mind:

• Setting the temperature too high: Your home won’t get warmer quicker. However, your air conditioner will be forced to work harder, which will drive up your energy use and bills. 

• Keeping the aircon running all day: Instead, set timers so the system stays off while no one is around, and only starts up before you return home. A far less expensive option.

• Not cleaning or replacing filters: This is a surefire way to reduce airflow and strain your air conditioner. 

• Leaving doors and windows wide open: The easiest way to get your warmed air quickly escape your home. 

Being mindful of these mistakes and avoiding them is your ticket to an air conditioning system that performs better and for longer. 

Enjoy Superior Comfort and Efficiency From Your Inverter Aircon

When winter hits and you want to get your home warm with ease, an inverter air conditioner just might be the heating helping hand you need. But enjoying maximum comfort with minimal energy use means adopting smart habits, keeping up with regular maintenance and making the most of its energy-saving features.

The smart approach to inverter AC use provides you with a reliable, energy-efficient way to stay warm all season. It’s not just about beating the cold—it’s about doing it smarter and getting more value from every degree of heat.