Both air conditioners and fans can be used in summer and winter months

If used correctly it can be an energy efficient way to both heat or cool your home.

How to prepare air conditioners and fans:

1. Clean the filters
   After heavy use in summer filters can accumulate dirt and dust, this can affect the air quality and efficiency of the unit.
2. Clean the outside of the units
   Give indoor and outdoor units a wipe down to remove all the dust, dirt, leaves, spider webs etc.
3. Switch air conditioners to the heating mode during winter
   Heating mode is normally a sun symbol on the remote. 
4. Switch ceiling fans to winter mode during winter
   Winter mode used in conjunction with air conditioners allows fans to redistribute warm air around the room/home and can save money on heating costs when using heaters alone. This also means there is less condensation and humidity in the home. Fans in winter mode should spin clockwise and hence draw the air up. You want to achieve a gentle mix of the air and not a draft. Modern ceiling fans feature a switch on the hub or motor housing or on the remote control. 
5. Switch air conditioner to the cooling mode during summer
   Cooling mode is normally a snowflake symbol on the remote. 
6. Switch ceiling fans to summer mode during summer
   Summer mode used in conjunction with air conditioners allows fans to push the air downwards to cool the room/home and create cooler effects on skin. Fans in summer mode should spin counter-clockwise and hence push the air down. Modern ceiling fans feature a switch on the hub or motor housing or on the remote control. 
7. Ideal temperatures and efficiencies
   Air conditioners cost around 35c cents per hour to run. Keeping the thermostat at 21-22 degrees will ensure that the unit is operating effectively and efficiently and will ensure a comfortable temperature within your home.
8. Have units serviced by professional technicians
   To get the most out of air conditioners they should be regularly serviced. Dust and dirt can accumulate within units which can slowly damage the internal elements and also reduce the overall efficiency.