In the scorching summer heat, how can air conditioners be used most efficiently to save electricity? Taiwan Power Company (Taipower) held a press conference on Debunking Seven Common Myths About Summer Energy Conservation at the Ministry of Economic Affairs today (18th), addressing common misconceptions about air conditioner energy-saving methods circulating on the internet. Taipower stated that conserving electricity does not mean sacrificing comfort. Instead, adopting proper energy-saving practices and minimizing unnecessary energy consumption can help reduce electricity bills while promoting environmental sustainability.

Regarding air conditioner fan speed and temperature settings, Taipower pointed out that setting the fan speed to "Low" reduces the volume of air passing through the indoor unit, requiring more time to cool the room and increasing the workload on the compressor. Taipower therefore recommends using the "Auto" fan setting. On hot summer afternoons, if the air conditioning does not feel cool enough, users can first increase the fan speed to "High" to improve air circulation and lower the perceived temperature. This approach is more energy-efficient than simply lowering the temperature setting.

Regarding sleep and dehumidification modes, Taipower recommends using the air conditioner's "Sleep Mode" for those concerned about feeling too cold when leaving the air conditioner running overnight or waking up because of the heat if it is set to turn off automatically. Sleep Mode raises the temperature setting by 1-2 deg C after the user falls asleep, helping maintain comfort while conserving electricity. As for the question, "Does dehumidification mode use a lot of electricity?" Taipower cautioned that an air conditioner's dehumidification mode consumes more power than a dedicated dehumidifier, as its compressor operates at high power for extended periods. Therefore, when dehumidification is needed, using a dedicated dehumidifier is the more energy-efficient option.

Addressing other common misconceptions about air conditioner use, such as "Does leaving an inverter air conditioner running continuously save more electricity?" Taipower explained that keeping an inverter air conditioner running at all times does not necessarily result in energy savings. For brief absences of 30 minutes or less, users may consider leaving the air conditioner on, but turning it off is still recommended when leaving for extended periods. As for "how an air circulator fan should be used with an air conditioner, Taipower recommends placing the fan below the air conditioner's air outlet, directing the airflow toward the center of the room, and tilting the fan upward at a 45-degree angle to promote air circulation throughout the room.

Addressing the common misconception that "unstable voltage is the reason an air conditioner is not cooling properly," Taipower clarified that if there were a problem with the supply voltage, the air conditioner would be unable to start. If an air conditioner starts normally and continues operating, this indicates that the supply voltage is within the equipment's normal operating range. Therefore, inadequate cooling is due to issues with the air conditioner itself and is unrelated to the supply voltage. Taipower advises users to first clean the air filters and check whether the air conditioner's cooling capacity is appropriate for the size of the room. If necessary, users should contact the manufacturer or a qualified service provider for inspection.

In addition to debunking common misconceptions, Taipower offered several practical tips for improving air conditioner energy efficiency. Taipower recommends setting the temperature between 26 deg C and 28 deg C and using an air circulator fan or electric fan to improve air circulation. Air filters should also be cleaned every two to three weeks to prevent dust and lint buildup from obstructing airflow. Doors and windows should be kept closed while the air conditioner is operating to minimize cooling loss. Furthermore, when purchasing a new air conditioner, Taipower recommends choosing a model with a Level 1 energy efficiency rating under Taiwan's Energy Efficiency Rating Labeling system to achieve greater electricity savings.

Taipower reported that residential customers achieved total electricity savings of 1.8 billion kilowatt-hours (kWh) in 2025, equivalent to the annual electricity consumption of approximately 500,000 households. These savings also resulted in an estimated reduction of 840,000 metric tons of carbon emissions, equivalent to the annual carbon sequestration capacity of approximately 2,170 Daan Forest Parks. Taipower will continue to promote proper energy-saving practices and encourage the public to incorporate energy conservation into their daily lives, working together to reduce electricity consumption and carbon emissions.

Spokesperson: Huang, Chief Administrator
Phone: (02) 2366-6271; 0922-696-383

Contact Person: Director Chung, Business Department
Phone: (02) 2366-6650; 0922-483-804