How to programme your air conditioner for maximum energy efficiency

With the arrival of warmer weather, maintaining a comfortable temperature at home becomes a necessity. And although it may seem complicated, doing so without driving up your electricity consumption is possible —and easier than you think.

An air conditioner is one of the most widely used appliances during the summer, so programming it correctly can make all the difference between enjoying a pleasant temperature or incurring unnecessary costs. That’s why we provide all the information you need to understand why programming is essential, what benefits it brings to your home, how to set up your air conditioner step-by-step, and which mistakes to avoid for efficient and responsible use.

Why is it important to programme your air conditioner?

While it is our best ally against high temperatures, an air conditioner doesn’t just cool the room —it also accounts for a significant portion of our energy consumption during summer. But programming it doesn’t mean limiting its use; it means adjusting it to your schedule, habits, and real needs. This approach reduces unnecessary consumption, prevents overloads, and extends the lifespan of your unit.

Proper programming helps maintain a consistent temperature without sudden fluctuations, improving comfort and supporting your health. The key is not to keep the AC running all day but to have it operating when you really need it.

Benefits of an efficient air conditioner in your home

Financial savings

Programming your air conditioner correctly helps prevent it from running when it’s not needed, resulting in energy savings and a lighter electricity bill. Even the most modern and efficient units can significantly increase energy consumption if left running without control.

Lower environmental impact

By reducing energy consumption, overall demand is also decreased, resulting in lower CO₂ emissions and a direct contribution to sustainability.

Longer equipment lifespan

Frequent on/off cycles or extended periods of continuous use can wear out the system more quickly. By programming its operation, the AC is used in a balanced way, avoiding overstrain and premature breakdowns.

Personalised comfort

Programming your AC according to your routine allows you to create a comfortable environment throughout the day. For example, set it cooler in the morning when you wake up, use lighter ventilation in the afternoon, and have it switch off automatically at night once you fall asleep. All of it tailored to your lifestyle.

Steps to programme your air conditioner

Programming your AC is easier than it seems. Most current models come with timer and daily scheduling features and even offer smartphone control. This way, you can keep your home cool while preventing the air conditioner from running when it’s not needed. All in just a few simple steps. Here's how:

Step 1: Get to know your unit

Check whether your air conditioner has a timer, a scheduling function, or smart features. As mentioned, most current models allow you to set automatic on/off times, along with other customised settings.

Step 2: Set efficient schedules

Programme your air conditioner for the times you use it most. For example:

• Switch it on half an hour before you arrive home.
• Set it to switch off automatically at night or when you leave.

This ensures you don't forget to turn it off and keeps your home comfortable without the need to keep it running all day.

Step 3: Set the ideal temperature

The recommended temperature in summer is around 24–26 °C. Setting your AC lower than this significantly increases energy consumption without improving comfort. Avoid extreme settings, which make the system work harder than necessary.

Step 4: Use smart features

If your air conditioner has connectivity, use mobile apps to activate eco modes, set alerts, or control it remotely. Automation is key to real efficiency.

Step 5: Work together with other elements in your home

Supplement your air conditioning schedule with awnings, thermal curtains, or cross-ventilation. This reduces the home’s thermal load and allows the air conditioner to run for shorter periods.

Common mistakes when programming your air conditioner (and how to avoid them)

Running it for too long

Leaving the air conditioner on for hours without interruption, even when no one is home, leads to unnecessary energy use. The solution is to use the timer and adjust usage to periods when someone is at home.

Setting temperatures too low

Setting the air conditioner to 19 °C in an attempt to cool faster only strains the system and increases costs without cooling the space any quicker. Keeping the temperature within the recommended range is more efficient and healthier.

Failing to check the programming

Setting your air conditioner once and forgetting about it can mean it operates at the wrong times. Check the programming regularly, especially if your schedule or habits change.

Ignoring maintenance

Even if it is correctly programmed, an air conditioner with dirty filters or without a full technical check uses more energy and cools less efficiently. Remember to carry out regular cleaning and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Not knowing your unit’s features

Many users do not explore their appliance’s advanced options, such as night mode, energy-saving mode, or automatic fan mode. Reading the manual or checking the app can help you make the most of these specialised modes.

Energy efficiency and comfort: it is possible

Programming your air conditioner doesn’t mean using it less —it means using it better. With a few simple adjustments, you can save money, reduce your environmental impact, and enhance your comfort at home. And the best part: all using tools that are already included with your unit.

At Endesa, we work to ensure that efficiency doesn’t come at the expense of comfort. We promote the responsible use of energy, and helping you get the most from your appliances is part of that commitment.