Keeping your home cool and comfortable during the summers can be quite a challenge, especially as temperatures continue to rise each year. While an air conditioning unit can provide relief, it can also significantly increase your energy consumption and power bills. However, by setting the best temperature for air conditioning, you can stay comfortable without skyrocketing energy costs.
Let’s explore the ideal AC temperature for summer, both during the day and night and offer essential tips to ensure your AC runs efficiently.
Experts suggest that the best AC temperature for a restful night of sleep in summer is between 15°C and 19°C. Keeping your AC unit temperature in this range creates an environment conducive to relaxation, preventing you from waking up sweaty or uncomfortable.
Additionally, research has shown that sleeping in a cooler room can improve your sleep quality by helping your body regulate its temperature naturally. Setting your aircon temperature to this range is also energy-efficient, ensuring you’re not overworking your unit while still staying cool.
The body’s natural cycle plays a vital role in sleep, with temperature regulation being a key component. As you wind down for the night, your body temperature naturally drops, signalling it’s time for rest. If your AC is set too high or too low, it can disrupt this process, causing restlessness and poor sleep quality. The goal is to find the right AC setting that promotes both comfort and energy efficiency.
During the day, keeping your AC between 27 to 29 degrees Celsius helps maintain comfort while saving energy, and reducing your cooling costs by 5-15%. However, factors like your home’s insulation and local climate may influence the ideal temperature.
At night, as the outdoor temperature falls, you can lower the AC setting further to between 15 to 19 degrees Celsius, which aligns with your body’s natural cooling process. Using the AC’s sleep mode can also enhance comfort and energy savings by automatically turning off the system after a set period.
Finding the perfect temperature isn’t one-size-fits-all—it depends on individual needs and preferences. As it is influenced by your comfort level and those living with you. Some people enjoy warmer environments, while others prefer cooler spaces to avoid feeling overheated.
Financial factors also play a role in setting your thermostat. While maintaining your home at 75°F (24°C) may save money in the long run, it won’t be effective if you’re constantly uncomfortable. It’s important to find a temperature that balances both comfort and cost efficiency for your specific needs.
Here are some settings you could try:
Keep in mind that for every 1-degree shift that you ask your air conditioner to cool your home, there’s a 10% increase in electricity use. Therefore, balancing comfort and energy efficiency is key when setting your AC temperature.
Knowing the ideal AC temperature isn’t enough—you also need to ensure that your air conditioner is running at peak efficiency. Below are some practical tips to help you get the most out of your AC this summer:
Cool air tends to accumulate in specific areas, which is why using a ceiling fan to circulate it is essential. Pairing your AC with a fan helps spread cool air throughout the room, improving comfort and reducing the load on your AC unit.
For your air conditioner to perform optimally, ensure that all doors and windows are closed. Open windows allow warm air to enter, which forces your AC to work harder, resulting in increased energy consumption.
Airflow is restricted by clogged filters, which lowers the efficiency of your air conditioner. Clean or replace your air filters regularly to maintain proper ventilation, reduce energy usage, and improve indoor air quality.
In addition to the best temperature for air conditioning, consider programming your thermostat to a higher setting when you’re away from home. Even a small increase can significantly reduce energy consumption without sacrificing comfort.
Regular maintenance of your AC unit can help identify issues before they become major problems. Schedule annual check-ups with a professional to ensure that your system is running efficiently and effectively, which will help prolong its lifespan and save on repair costs.
By following these tips, you can reduce energy consumption and lower your cooling costs during the summer.
Keeping your home cool during the summer doesn’t mean you have to face high energy bills. By setting your air conditioner to the best temperature for air conditioning and following the essential maintenance tips mentioned, you can enjoy a comfortable indoor environment while saving on costs.
Looking for more ways to cut down on your air conditioning bills? Check out our Guide on how to reduce electricity bill for more expert advice.
Matthew Connery is the Director of Hamilton Air Conditioning in London. He is a skilled Business Strategist who delivers energy-efficient and cost-saving solutions to commercial and domestic clients from leading air conditioning brands.
