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Time Out Abu Dhabi

The secret to cheaper AC in Abu Dhabi? Set it to this temperature

Summer temperatures are creeping in from angles, so it's that time of year when we all start thinking about our air conditioning (and the AC bill that goes with it). There are a lot of myths that need de-bunking when it comes to AC in the UAE, from running costs to the most effective maintenance. Many a debate has been had over whether it's cheaper to keep your AC on constant or switch it off when you're out, or how often you should have it checked. Then there's the golden question, what is the most cost-effective temperature to keep your AC on? To help sort fact from fiction, Time Out spoke to Thomas Speed, General Manager at Breathe, a home and maintenance company for AC in Dubai, who was able to shine a light on things. Q&A: How to cut down on your bill for AC in the UAE If you're heading on holiday, should you leave your AC on or off? To turn off or not to turn off, that is the question (Credit: Shutterstock) 'Leave your AC on. Not only do you not want to come home to a greenhouse but allowing the heat and summer humidity to get inside can start the process of damp and mould. 'On the flip side of this, installing smart thermostats can also allow you to track and change the AC from your mobile phone whilst away on holiday or long business trips. 'This can allow you to maybe turn it on and off throughout the day but again this is not the most energy-efficient way of running your AC.' What is the most cost-effective temperature to have your AC on? The secret to cheaper AC in Dubai DEWA (Dubai Electricity and Water Authority) recommends a temperature of 24 degrees Celsius during the summer to be the most cost-effective; however, Speed suggested a temperature of 22 to 23 degrees would be preferred. Speed also explained that to be most cost-effective, you need to make sure your AC isn't stopping and starting on automatic mode. He said: 'In the summer you may find a temperature of 22-23 degrees Celsius comfortable within the home, but if your fan sounds like it's always stopping and starting the balance is incorrect. 'I would advise to drop the temperature down 1 degree at a time on the thermostat. Run your fan speed at low to medium, and only increase when you need a quick blast of cool air. 'Keeping the fan speed on at a lower speed ultimately will allow the component parts of the AC to last longer and also use less power than running everything at maximum.' Can you save money by having your AC on a few degrees higher for a few hours? 'This is not entirely true, as this means that you still have your AC on during the day. It will still work in exactly the same way as when it's trying to cool at a lower temperature.' Does closing curtains and doors have an impact on AC running costs? 'Yes, a great option is to install a blackout lining behind the curtain as well. This will stop heat radiation penetrating the rooms and allow the AC system to work with minimal input, keeping your rooms and walls at a constant temperature suitable for comfortable living.' Summer in Abu Dhabi The 27 best things to do indoors this summer in Abu Dhabi It's time for some air-conditioned bliss The best things to do this weekend in Abu Dhabi Your full weekend itinerary 25 brilliant beach and pool day passes in Abu Dhabi Grab your SPF – a lush day by the water awaits