What’s the Best Aircon Temperature to Set During the Summer?

Setting the right aircon temperature during the summer can make a big difference in your comfort, energy bill, and even the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.

When temperatures soar, it’s tempting to crank the aircon to an icy chill, but doing so can lead to higher energy costs and unnecessary wear on your system. Finding the best temperature isn’t just about staying cool − it’s about striking a balance between comfort and efficiency.

In this guide, we’ll explore the ideal temperature range recommended for summer, how factors like humidity and activity levels play a role, and simple tips to make the most of your cooling without breaking the bank. With the right settings, you can keep cool and save energy all season long.

The Recommended Temperature Range

Finding the ideal aircon temperature during summer isn’t just about keeping cool; it’s also about energy efficiency. Here are some recommended temperature settings that strike a balance between comfort and cost savings:

• 24-26°C (75-78°F): This range is often considered the sweet spot for balancing comfort and efficiency in warm weather. It keeps you cool without overworking your air conditioner.
• Each degree counts: For every degree you set above 24°C, you can save roughly 3-5% on cooling costs. Setting your aircon even one degree higher can make a noticeable difference on your energy bill.
• When you’re away: If you’re out during the day, consider setting the aircon a few degrees higher or turning it off. Many systems have eco or energy-saving modes to keep your space cool without constant cooling.
• Using a programmable thermostat: These thermostats can automatically adjust the temperature, saving energy while you sleep or when you’re out.

Setting your aircon within this recommended range can keep you comfortable and help reduce energy usage during those hot summer months. This applies to all types of air conditioning systems, from split systems and evaporative coolers to ducted heating and cooling.

How Humidity Affects the Ideal Temperature Setting

Humidity plays a significant role in how we perceive temperature. On a humid day, even a well-cooled room can feel warm and uncomfortable because high humidity makes it harder for sweat to evaporate from our skin.

This can leave us feeling sticky and overheated, even if the temperature is relatively low. When the aircon removes humidity from the air, the environment feels cooler, allowing you to set the temperature a bit higher while still staying comfortable.

To balance temperature and humidity, try setting your aircon to “dry mode” if available, which focuses on reducing moisture in the air without over-cooling. You can also aim for a temperature between 24-26°C to stay comfortable and energy-efficient in humid conditions.

Adding a fan can further circulate the air, enhancing the cooling effect without needing to lower the temperature. By managing humidity, you can enjoy a cool, comfortable space without overworking your aircon or driving up energy costs, especially during those muggy summer days.

The Impact of Temperature on Energy Costs

Setting your aircon temperature just a few degrees higher can make a surprising difference in your energy bill. Here’s how temperature settings impact costs:

• Each degree matters: For every degree you raise your thermostat above 24°C, you can save around 3-5% on energy costs. Setting it just one or two degrees higher can lead to noticeable savings over time.
• Lower temperatures, higher bills: Keeping your aircon at a very low temperature, like 20°C, means it has to work continuously to maintain that coolness. This constant strain not only drives up energy bills but also wears down your system faster.
• Eco and energy-saving modes: Many air conditioners come with energy-saving or “eco” modes that optimise energy use by maintaining a comfortable yet efficient temperature range. Switching to these settings can help you stay cool without the hefty energy costs.
• Use a smart thermostat: A programmable or smart thermostat allows you to schedule temperature adjustments based on your routine, which can help cut costs when you’re asleep or away.

By managing your aircon temperature wisely, you can stay cool and keep energy costs under control all summer long.

Adjusting the Temperature Based on Time of Day

Your ideal aircon temperature can vary throughout the day and depending on your activity level. During active hours − like when you’re cooking, cleaning, or exercising indoors − your body generates more heat, so setting the aircon slightly cooler, around 24°C, can help keep you comfortable.

But during more relaxed times, like when you’re working from home, watching TV, or sleeping, you can set the temperature a bit higher, closer to 26°C.

At night, your body naturally cools down, so you may not need as much cooling to feel comfortable. In fact, raising the temperature just a few degrees while you sleep can significantly reduce energy consumption and still keep you at a restful temperature.

If you have a programmable thermostat, set it to adjust automatically based on your routine − cooler during the day, slightly warmer at night. By aligning your aircon’s settings with your daily activities, you can stay comfortable throughout the day while keeping energy costs in check.

Tips to Maximise Air Conditioning Efficiency in Summer

To stay cool without overworking your air conditioner, here are some simple ways to make it more efficient:

• Close blinds and curtains: Blocking out direct sunlight, especially during the hottest parts of the day, can keep your home cooler naturally, reducing the load on your air conditioner.
• Seal gaps and cracks: Inspect doors and windows for any drafts or gaps where cool air might escape. Proper insulation helps keep cool air in and hot air out, allowing your aircon to work less.
• Use fans to circulate air: Ceiling or portable fans can help distribute cool air more evenly, making the room feel cooler. This can let you set your aircon a few degrees higher without sacrificing comfort.
• Clean or replace filters regularly: Dusty or clogged filters make the aircon work harder. A clean filter improves airflow and keeps your system running efficiently.
• Limit heat-producing activities: Activities like cooking or using the dryer can add unwanted heat. Try to schedule these activities for cooler parts of the day, like early morning or evening.

Following these tips can help you stay comfortable while saving on energy costs throughout the summer.

Be Cool and Save Money

Finding the best aircon temperature during summer is all about balancing comfort and efficiency. While setting your thermostat between 24-26°C can keep you cool and reduce energy costs, adjusting based on humidity, activity levels, and the time of day can make a big difference.

Small adjustments, like using fans, closing blinds and keeping doors and windows sealed, help your aircon work smarter, not harder. Remember, every degree higher can add up to energy savings without sacrificing comfort.

Experiment within this range to discover what feels best for you and your household. By managing your aircon wisely, you can enjoy a cool, comfortable home all summer long without the shock of a high energy bill.

Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.