In the past, a standard air conditioner used to only contain the basic controls and switches needed for it to operate. From the on and off switch to the high, medium and low thermostat settings, operating the cooling machine only involved a few taps and clicks. But with the technological developments that have happened in the aircon industry since then, newer functions have been added and further modifications were made to improve our overall aircon experience.
With multiple modes to choose from in an aircon, it can be quite confusing and even overwhelming to know what would work best for you. Should you choose the fan mode or the dry mode? Are you better off clicking the cool mode over the quick cool mode? Whatever your preference in an aircon, there’s always a mode that should provide you with the right temperature and level of cooling
In this article, we will explain the different modes of operation in air conditioners to help you better decide the next time you switch on your unit.
The Different Modes of Operation in Air Conditioners
- Cool Mode - The cool mode in an air conditioner is widely considered to be the default mode for almost every unit. Turning this mode on allows the unit to bring in a significant amount of cooling by converting the air into cold breeze. Like all air conditioners, using this mode results in the unit’s heavy reliance on the aircon compressor to provide a fast and enhanced cooling temperature. You can find this mode by looking for a snowflake symbol in your remote controller or aircon control panel.
- Dry Mode - If you need to lower the moisture in a room, then the dry mode is a feature that you can turn to. If your home or property is located in a city that is in close proximity to the sea, then chances are you often experience bouts of humid monsoon rains. Additionally, you also get warm and humid air if you’re located in a tropical country like Singapore. This sensation can sometimes result in discomfort and thus an aircon unit can serve as a dependable machine to combat this. Turning the dry mode on can help remove extra humidity and moisture in the air — allowing you to sleep and breathe better. This is also a big power and electricity-saver as it only requires the aircon fan and compressor to run at a low speed. If the cool mode is usually represented by a snowflake in most remote controllers and control panels, the dry mode normally comes in the form of a water drop symbol.
- Energy or Power Saver Mode - Are you looking to experience significant cooling while also saving energy and electricity? If you answered yes, then the energy or power saver mode is the perfect feature for you. This mode works by helping the aircon unit give ample cooling without pressuring the machine or exhausting it to its fullest capacity. This feature further works by having the fan run once a certain temperature or time has been reached, thereby regulating the room temperature for the person’s continued comfort with less power consumed and more money saved in electricity bills. You can find this mode by looking for an electricity bolt symbol in the aircon panel or remote controller.
- Fan Mode - If you don’t need power cooling, then the fan mode should work best for you. This feature enables the built-in fan of the unit to provide the air, although at the expense of lower cooling capacity. But since the fan does most of the work, additional power and electricity are saved, leading to more savings in your monthly electricity bill.
- Quick Cool Mode - Are you in a hurry to cool your space? Try using the quick cool mode. Also called the power chill mode in other aircon units, it can provide cool air at a much faster rate than the default cooling settings. The mode works by starting the air conditioner unit at the temperature level of 16-18°C. Since it consumes more electricity by powering up the aircon unit at this temperature level, choosing this would result in higher electricity bills.
- Sleep Mode - Most aircon modes have names that are pretty self-explanatory, and this one is not any different. The sleep mode is another energy-saving mode that allows the unit to double down on its performance by regulating the cool temperature in increments. Since this is usually used at nighttime, the occupants aren’t able to distinguish these changes as they are usually fast asleep, making way for a more comfortable sleep and added savings in electricity bills.
- Quiet Mode - Although seemingly made for the most sensitive sleeper, the quiet mode is a popular feature that most aircon owners use. Its main function is very straightforward — it reduces the noise being emitted by the aircon unit to give way for a quieter and more relaxing cooling experience.
- Turbo Mode - Not to be confused with the quick cool or power chill mode, the turbo mode is a feature that activates both the fast cooling and heating in an aircon unit. Turning this on usually operates the fan speed for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat Mode - The heat mode operates by blowing warm air into a room until the desired temperature is reached. Once this temperature is reached, the inverter compressor in the aircon’s outdoor unit will begin to slow down and eventually stop. The aircon fan will also effectively stop when the indoor unit begins to cool down. This mode is usually represented by a sun symbol.
- 6th Sense Mode (Whirlpool Aircon) - If you have a Whirlpool aircon, the 6th Sense mode adjusts the unit’s fan speed based on the room’s temperature. The fan speed can vary in three different levels — high, medium or low. This feature can also be an alternative over the cool mode as it saves more electricity by using the fan motor.
Maximizing Your Aircon’s Performance
Knowing the functions of every mode in an aircon unit can help you better decide what works best for your cooling needs at any given time. Additionally, it also helps you use your aircon efficiently which in turn can lead to more savings in repairs and electricity bills.
But apart from being knowledgeable of these aircon essentials, it’s also important to know when to get regular maintenance and check-ups for your unit. For quality maintenance and repairs for every major aircon brand, contact us at Oasis Aircon Singapore. Our team of highly skilled AC technicians are here to assist you for all your air conditioner needs. With our honest pricing, we ensure that your home, office, or business will receive the best service, for the best price.
Related article: Different Aircon Symbols Found in Your Remote
