There’s nothing more satisfying than a perfectly chilled room in the sweaty Indian summer. Many of us blast the AC to 20°C or lower for rapid cooling. Well, this short-term comfort can have long-term consequences.
Running the air conditioner at such a low setting can offer instant cooling, but it can also lead to soaring energy bills and take a toll on your health. Luckily, you can avoid them by finding a sweet spot for the AC’s temperature.
Scroll down to learn about the best temperature for AC for Indian homes in summer and how it benefits your health and wallet.
Best Temperature for AC in Summer: Why It Matters Energy Wise?
Wondering, “What should I set my air conditioner to?” Experts say that the ideal AC temperature in summer is 24°C. To know why, let’s first understand how the air conditioner works, in the following steps:
- When you set a specific low temperature, let’s say 20°C, the AC’s compressor runs at full power until the entire room temperature is maintained.
- Due to the lack of proper insulation in some homes, the low-temperature cooling may take a very long time.
- Once cooled, the space will heat up quickly due to poor insulation, causing the AC to work harder and longer.
- All of this overloads the compressor, adding to your monthly bills and also contributing to global warming. So, faster cooling isn’t always better.
On the other hand, setting the AC temperature range to 24°C-26°C helps with more efficient cooling. It may take 10-15 minutes longer, but it allows your AC unit to switch to energy-saving mode by taking the load off the compressor. Energy efficiency is why most AC units have a default cooling set point of 24°C.
Here’s a quick AC temperature chart to help you understand it visually:
Health Benefits of the Ideal AC Setting at 24°C
Now that we’ve covered that 24°C temperature cooling saves energy, let’s see why it’s considered healthy for you:
Minimises the Risk of Cold
Running your AC too cold suddenly can give you a temperature shock. Moreover, constantly low temperatures can increase your chances of catching a cold. The ideal temperature for AC in summer (24°C) brings down those risks.
Prevents Skin Dryness
The cooler it gets, the less humid it becomes. This moisture loss from the air can cause your skin and nasal passages to dry out. This can exacerbate issues such as itching or skin flaking if you already have dry skin.
Safe for Those with Asthma
Inhaling air that is too cold is linked with airway inflammation. According to a 1998 study, prolonged exposure to cold air can exacerbate respiratory problems and potentially trigger asthma attacks (Source: PubMed). Maintaining an AC temperature of 24°C can be ideal for individuals with asthma.
Reduces Muscle and Joint Stiffness
Excessively low temperatures can cause muscle and joint discomfort and pain. Those with arthritis are primarily affected when the AC temperature is set too low. So, maintaining the temperature of 24 degrees Celsius is ideal.
Keeps You Comfortable
Keeping the AC normal temperature of 24°C is great for overall comfort and cooling without having the need to bring heavy blankets. It is the most comfortable AC temperature, especially when people of different age groups are in the same space.
Tips for Smart Cooling and Better Comfort
Here are additional tips to boost the cooling efficiency of the AC while taking care of your health:
- To circulate cool air, use ceiling fans in conjunction with the air conditioner.
- Clean your AC unit regularly for optimal cooling and cutting energy costs.
- Keep the doors and windows closed to maintain the best temperature for the AC.
- Remember to stay hydrated when spending a long time in air-conditioned spaces.
- Moisturise your skin and nostrils with lotion, creams, or petroleum jelly to prevent dryness.
- Use a humidifier or indoor plants to enhance humidity and relieve respiratory issues.
Read More: Understanding Normal Body Temperature Across Different Age Groups
To Sum Up
The best air conditioner temperature for summer is all about striking the right balance between efficient cooling, energy savings, and better well-being. Avoid keeping your AC below 24°C for too long. It poses health risks and drills a hole in your wallet. For better comfort and cooling, follow these tips: use ceiling fans, stay hydrated, and keep your skin moisturized.
We’re sure that now you’ve got the answer to, “What temperature should I put my AC on?” Remember that cooler isn’t always better, so choose wisely.
