What is the Best Temperature to Set Your Air Conditioner in Australia?

Setting your air conditioner to the right temperature is key to staying comfortable in Australia’s varying climate. Whether you’re dealing with scorching summers or chilly winters, finding the ideal balance between comfort and energy efficiency can make a big difference.

But what exactly is the best temperature to set your air conditioner at? Setting it too low might feel refreshing, but it can spike your energy bill, while setting it too high can leave you feeling hot and sticky.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the recommended air conditioning temperatures for both summer and winter − from split systems and window units to ducted systems − explain how they can save you money, and share some practical tips to help you stay comfortable year-round without wasting energy.

Factors That Affect Ideal Air Conditioning Temperature

Choosing the right air conditioner temperature isn’t just about picking a number − there are several factors that influence what’s ideal for your home. One of the main considerations is the climate in your area.

Australia has a diverse climate, from hot and humid in the north to temperate or cooler conditions in the south. If you’re living in tropical regions like Queensland, you may want to set your air conditioner lower than someone in a cooler region like Melbourne.

Personal comfort is another key factor. Everyone has a different tolerance for heat or cold, so what feels comfortable to one person might be too warm or chilly for another. Also, think about the time of day and season. You might prefer a cooler setting during the heat of the day, while a slightly higher temperature may be comfortable in the evening.

Lastly, your home’s insulation and design can play a big role in temperature regulation. Homes with better insulation can maintain comfortable temperatures without relying as heavily on air conditioning.

The Recommended AC Temperature for Summer

When summer hits, finding the right air conditioner temperature is essential for staying cool without skyrocketing energy costs.

Experts recommend keeping your air conditioner set between 24°C and 26°C during summer for the best balance of comfort and efficiency.

Here’s why:

• Energy efficiency: Every degree lower increases energy consumption by about 10%, so setting your air conditioner within this range helps keep your electricity bill manageable.
• Comfort: 24°C to 26°C is generally cool enough to make indoor spaces comfortable without being overly cold, reducing the shock of stepping in from the heat.
• Health benefits: Keeping the temperature in this range can prevent you from getting too cold, which may lead to respiratory issues or discomfort, especially when transitioning between indoor and outdoor environments.
• Sustainability: A slightly higher setting reduces your carbon footprint by lowering energy usage.

This range helps you stay cool, save money and protect the environment.

The Best Temperature Setting for Winter

In the cooler months, it’s just as important to set your reverse cycle air conditioner to an efficient and comfortable temperature. For winter, experts recommend keeping your air conditioner between 18°C and 20°C.

Here are four reasons why:

1. Energy savings: Setting your air conditioner within this range helps you stay warm without using excessive energy. Every degree higher adds to your electricity costs, so sticking to 18°C to 20°C keeps bills manageable.
2. Comfort: This range provides enough warmth to stay cosy without making your home feel stuffy or overheated.
3. Health benefits: A mild temperature like this is gentle on your body, reducing the risk of dry skin or respiratory discomfort that can come from overheating your home.
4. Environmental impact: A lower temperature setting reduces energy consumption, contributing to a smaller carbon footprint during the colder months.

By following these guidelines, you’ll stay comfortable while saving money and energy.

Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings

Setting your air conditioner to the right temperature doesn’t just keep you comfortable − it can also lead to significant energy savings.

Here’s how choosing the ideal temperature helps you save on your energy bill while staying eco-friendly:

• Optimal temperature range: In summer, aim for 24°C to 26°C, and in winter, 18°C to 20°C. Every degree lower in summer or higher in winter can increase energy consumption by up to 10%.
• Avoid extreme settings: Setting your air conditioner too low in summer or too high in winter forces it to work harder, driving up your energy costs.
• Use fans for support: Ceiling or portable fans can help circulate cool or warm air, allowing you to set the temperature higher or lower without sacrificing comfort.
• Regular maintenance: Keeping your air conditioner well-maintained, with clean filters and functioning parts, ensures it runs efficiently and doesn’t waste energy.
• Insulation matters: A well-insulated home keeps the cool air in during summer and the warm air in during winter, reducing the need for your air conditioner to work overtime.

These small adjustments can result in big savings on your energy bills.

Using a Programmable Thermostat for Better Control

A programmable thermostat can be a game-changer when it comes to managing your air conditioner’s temperature. Instead of manually adjusting the settings throughout the day, a programmable thermostat allows you to set specific temperatures for different times.

For instance, you can have the air conditioning unit − from ducted systems to cassette air conditioners − set to a cooler temperature during the hottest part of the day and then automatically adjust to a higher, more energy-efficient setting when you’re asleep or out of the house.

Smart thermostats take it a step further by learning your preferences and adjusting the temperature based on factors like outdoor weather and your daily routine. This not only ensures comfort but can also save you a significant amount on your energy bills.

With a thermostat that works for you, you’ll never have to worry about wasting energy while staying cool and comfortable in Australia’s ever-changing climate.

Considerations for Different Household Members

Setting the perfect temperature can be tricky when you have multiple people with different comfort levels in your home.

Here are some factors to consider for various household members:

• Children and babies: They tend to be more sensitive to temperature changes. A moderate setting around 24°C to 26°C in summer and 18°C to 20°C in winter keeps them comfortable and safe.
• Elderly family members: Seniors may feel the cold more, so keeping the home slightly warmer in winter can help them stay comfortable without overheating.
• Health conditions: If someone in your home has respiratory issues, maintaining consistent, moderate temperatures can reduce the risk of flare-ups or discomfort caused by extreme cold or heat.
• Personal preferences: Everyone’s comfort zone is different. Try using blankets, fans, or layered clothing to allow for individual adjustments without needing to drastically change the overall air conditioning setting.

Balancing the needs of each household member ensures everyone stays comfortable year-round.

Finding the Right Balance

Finding the best temperature for your air conditioning system is all about balancing comfort and energy efficiency. By setting your air conditioner to the recommended ranges − 24°C to 26°C in summer and 18°C to 20°C in winter − you can stay comfortable while keeping your energy bills in check.

Factors like personal preferences, health needs, and your home’s insulation also play a role in fine-tuning the ideal setting. With a few smart adjustments, such as using a programmable thermostat and maintaining your system, you can enjoy a comfortable home year-round without wasting energy or money.

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.