Mounting an air conditioner (AC) higher can potentially save electricity due to the principle of stratification and the temperature difference between the ceiling and the floor in a room. This strategy is more applicable to split-type air conditioners, where the indoor unit is mounted on the wall.
The key idea behind mounting the AC higher is to take advantage of the natural property of cold air being denser than warm air. When the AC is placed higher on the wall, it blows cooled air downwards, which tends to settle near the floor due to its higher density. As the cooled air settles, it gradually displaces the warmer air in the room, pushing it upward toward the ceiling. This creates a temperature gradient within the room, with the coolest air near the floor and the warmest air near the ceiling.
The benefits of this stratification include:
Reduced cooling load: Since people generally occupy the lower portion of a room, by keeping the lower portion cooler, occupants will feel more comfortable without the need to cool the entire room to the same extent. The cooler air near the floor also helps counteract the warm air rising from human bodies and other heat sources.
Lower thermostat settings: Because the lower portion of the room is already cooler, you can set the thermostat to a slightly higher temperature without sacrificing comfort. This reduces the overall energy consumption of the air conditioner.
Efficient airflow: Mounting the AC higher and directing the cool air downward helps to create better airflow patterns in the room, ensuring a more even distribution of cooled air and preventing hotspots.
It's important to note that while mounting the AC higher can be a helpful energy-saving strategy, the actual impact on electricity consumption depends on various factors, such as room size, insulation, outdoor temperature, and the AC's energy efficiency. Regular maintenance and proper sizing of the AC unit are also crucial for optimal energy efficiency. Additionally, this strategy might not be as effective in rooms with high ceilings or poor insulation, as the temperature stratification may not be as pronounced.