70% in Japan considering lowering heat pump use in winter due to high electricity bills

TOKYO — About 70% of people in Japan are considering reducing the use of heat pumps in winter against the backdrop of soaring electricity costs, a recent survey by Daikin Industries Ltd., a major air conditioning unit manufacturer, has revealed.

Daikin conducted the survey on energy saving in heating from mid- to late October, ahead of the arrival of winter, targeting 528 smartphone users nationwide. The survey highlighted the fact that many people are unaware of electricity-saving methods. What is the smart way to use heat pumps to warm rooms while keeping electricity costs down?

When those who use the heating functions of units were asked whether they agreed with the statement that they were conscious of their electricity bills and were thinking of cutting back on heat pump use this winter, 27% of respondents answered that they “strongly agree” while 40% said they “somewhat agree.”

Lowering the temperature setting by 1 degree Celsius is supposed to save 10% of electricity, but as many as 76% of respondents said they did not know this.

In a question regarding what they are conscious about when using heating and air conditioning units, 48% said “cleaning filters” while 7% said “cleaning around the outdoor unit.” Another 31% said “turning the switch on and off less frequently,” and 29% said “setting the air flow volume to automatic.” All of these measures are effective in saving electricity by reducing power consumption, but the survey shed light on the fact that they have not been widely adopted by users.

When feeling chilly while using the heat pump, 75% of respondents said they would “raise the temperature setting.”

People may feel chilly because of a drop in indoor humidity or “uneven temperature” where warm air rises and cold air accumulates around the feet. This can be improved by hanging laundry indoors or using a humidifier to increase indoor humidity without raising the temperature setting. Turning the air flow downward or using an air circulator fan will also make it feel like the temperature has risen.

Daikin says that keeping air flowing smoothly in and out of the air conditioner is the basis for saving electricity.

The company recommends keeping the outdoor unit clear of obstructions and cleaning the filter in the indoor unit every two weeks.

It is also apparently important to set the air flow volume to “automatic.” If it is set to “low,” the amount of air passing through the machine and heat sent into the room is reduced, which puts a strain on the compressor, the heart of the heater and air conditioner, and requires more electricity. In addition, leaving the power on for an outing of about 30 minutes is more energy-efficient, according to the company.

Daikin has introduced the survey results as well as detailed power saving tips on its website at https://www.daikin.co.jp/press/2023/20231107 (in Japanese).

(Japanese original by Digital News Group)