The ideal air conditioner temperature: how to set it in summer

The ideal air conditioner temperature is one at which you feel comfortable without a large difference from the outdoor temperature. In practice, for cooling in summer it is often recommended to set approximately 24 to 26 °C and to keep the difference between the outdoor and indoor temperature rather small. However, everyone perceives temperature differently.

Why not to over-cool

• a large temperature difference is unpleasant when you come in from outside,
• each degree lower increases electricity consumption,
• an airflow that is too cold can be uncomfortable, especially if it blows directly on you.

Temperature at night

For sleeping, many people prefer a slightly higher set temperature than during the day and a night mode that reduces the fan speed and gradually adjusts the temperature. Read more in the article A quiet air conditioner for the bedroom: how to choose and set it.

Temperature when heating

When heating with an air conditioner, set the temperature you want in the room – usually lower than for cooling in summer. Read more about heating in the article Heating with an air conditioner: is it worth it?.

Other settings that help

• Automatic fan mode – the air conditioner adjusts the speed itself.
• Louvre direction – upwards when cooling, downwards when heating.
• Dehumidification mode – on muggy days, reducing the humidity may be enough.
• Timer and app – switch on the air conditioner before you get home (Air conditioning with Wi‑Fi: controlling your air conditioner by mobile).

Do not switch unnecessarily

An inverter air conditioner works most economically when it maintains a stable temperature. Changing the temperature often or switching off when you go out briefly usually brings no savings. Read more in the article Inverter air conditioners: how they work and why they are better.

Conclusion

It is best to start at around 25 °C and adjust the temperature according to how you feel. If your air conditioner does not reach the set temperature, it may be clogged or faulty – see air conditioner service.