What is the ideal temperature to set your AC?

Australians experience many different weather patterns. This means there’s not a standard temp to set an air conditioning unit to in order to save energy. The ideal temp for savings will differ according to where you live, even within states.

When summer hits many of us make the mistake of setting our air conditioners to drastic cooling, say at a frosty 19 or 20 degrees. While this might provide fast relief from the sweltering heat this usage can cause increased wear and tear to units and result in huge electricity bills.

Very simple adjustments can help save on your energy costs and repair bills.  For example; with every degree you increase your air conditioner’s temp in summer, you can save up to 10% on utility bills and still remain comfortable.

What Is The Most Efficient Temperature For Air Conditioning?

The most efficient temperature to set your air conditioning will depend on the season and the climate in which you live.

In the table below, we provide a guide to the best air conditioning temperature for you, depending on your location within Australia. 

Why Do The Recommended Temperatures Vary Between Regions?

Your air conditioner works harder when off-setting more extreme climates. People living in warmer climates should set their cooling temperature a little lower, while people in cooler climates should set their heating temperature a little higher.

What Is The Most Economic Way To Run An Air Conditioner?

If you’re still worried about chewing up energy the best long-term solution is to avoid putting strain on your unit. By setting your unit to these recommended temperatures you can ensure a comfortable environment while also cutting your electricity bill and reducing greenhouse gasses.

Think of it this way: the harder your air conditioner has to work, the more electricity it will consume. This can also create wear and tear, meaning that the system will not last as long or, if it does, it will require expensive repairs.

Using Less Power for Your Air Conditioning

As well as monitoring temps there are a few extra things you can do to ensure your system is not gobbling up power and leaving your wallet empty.

• Use the settings: Most air conditioning systems allow the programming of settings or modes. This means you can schedule your system to come on before you get home and cool or warm the house to your desired temperature. You just set it and go basically. Some even have ‘economy’ modes built in and can do the programming for you.
• Using Apps for Greater Control: You can invest in apps and Wi-Fi systems that provide control from the convenience of your phone. Many allow users to monitor their energy use and adjust it accordingly if the weather changes.
• Choose An Energy Efficient Air Conditioner: The stars on air conditioners indicate their efficiency. Blue star ratings indicate energy efficiency when cooling, and red star ratings indicate heating efficiency. Buying an energy efficient air conditioner will help you save in the long run. Some units even have smart features like sensors that can tell if a room is empty, adjusting the temp accordingly.
• Seal and insulate your home: If your home’s sealing and insulation is up to scratch you can help increase the lifespan of your air conditioner and keep your electricity bills under control. Something as simple as backed curtains stops heating or cooling leaking out. This provides a more comfortable environment without putting more strain on your air conditioning unit.

A combination of these simple strategies can maintain your comfort during Australia’s extreme weather conditions, saving energy and reducing your bills.