The Perfect AC Temperature for Summer: Stay Cool & Save Energy
As summer temperatures rise across New South Wales, keeping your home cool while reducing energy costs becomes a priority. But what is the best air con temp setting for balancing comfort and efficiency?
Setting your air conditioner to the right temperature can lower electricity bills, increase energy efficiency, and extend the life of your AC unit. In this guide, we’ll explore the best temperature setting for your air conditioner during summer, how to maximise cooling efficiency, and tips to stay comfortable without overloading your system.
At Climashift Pty Ltd, we specialise in air conditioning services in NSW, including AC installations, repairs, and maintenance. Whether you’re cooling a Sydney apartment or a commercial space, this guide will help you find the ideal AC temperature for summer.
What Is the Best Temperature Setting for Your Air Conditioner in Summer?
The recommended optimal AC temperature for Australian homes during summer is 24–26°C. This setting provides a comfortable indoor environment while ensuring your air conditioner runs efficiently.
✔️ 24°C – Best for energy savings while maintaining comfort
✔️ 25°C – Ideal for balancing cooling and cost efficiency
✔️ 26°C – Most economical AC setting for energy-conscious homeowners
Why not set the AC lower?
Every degree lower than 24°C increases energy consumption by up to 10%. Running your air conditioner at 18°C or 19°C might cool the room faster, but it will increase your electricity bill significantly.
Tip: For NSW residents experiencing heatwaves, pairing your AC with ceiling fans can improve air circulation and allow you to set the temperature slightly higher without sacrificing comfort.
How to Maximise AC Efficiency While Staying Cool
1. Use a Programmable Thermostat or Smart AC Controller
A smart thermostat or AC controller allows you to automate temperature settings, reducing unnecessary energy use.
Best settings for energy efficiency:
🕘 Daytime (when home): 24–25°C
🌙 Nighttime (sleeping hours): 25–27°C
🏠 When away: 28°C or higher to conserve energy
Pro Tip: Many modern ducted air conditioners and split system units in Sydney come with WiFi-enabled controls, allowing you to adjust the settings remotely.
2. Use Ceiling Fans to Distribute Cool Air
Ceiling fans don’t lower the temperature, but they help spread cool air evenly, allowing you to raise the AC temp by 1–2 degrees without discomfort.
🔹 Set fans counterclockwise in summer to push cool air downward.
🔹 Pairing ceiling fans with AC can reduce cooling costs by up to 15%.
Did you know? In areas like Parramatta, Newcastle, and Wollongong, where humidity levels are high, using fans with AC can help remove excess moisture, improving indoor air quality.
3. Keep Windows and Blinds Closed During the Day
Preventing heat gain is just as important as cooling your space.
✅ Close curtains and blinds to block direct sunlight.
✅ Use reflective window films to reduce heat penetration.
✅ Seal air leaks around doors and windows to keep cool air inside.
Fun Fact: In Western Sydney suburbs like Penrith, where temperatures often exceed 40°C, keeping blinds closed can reduce indoor heat by up to 30%.
4. Regularly Clean & Maintain Your Air Conditioner
A well-maintained AC unit operates more efficiently, helping you achieve the best air conditioner temperature while using less power.
🛠️ Clean filters every 2-4 weeks to improve airflow.
🛠️ Schedule professional AC servicing annually to check refrigerant levels.
🛠️ Ensure vents and ducts are clear to prevent air circulation blockages.
At Climashift Pty Ltd, we offer AC maintenance in NSW, helping homeowners and businesses keep their systems running smoothly year-round.
5. Avoid Overcooling & Consider Zoning Systems
If you only use one or two rooms at a time, zoned air conditioning lets you cool only specific areas, reducing energy waste.
✅ Use zoning in ducted AC systems to control temperature in different rooms.
✅ Close unused rooms to prevent cool air from spreading unnecessarily.
✅ Set different AC temperatures for living spaces and bedrooms to optimize comfort.
Sydney homes with multiple floors benefit from zoning because heat rises, requiring different settings for upstairs and downstairs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the most economical temperature for air conditioning in Australia?
The most efficient AC temperature in Australia is 24-26°C, as recommended by Energy Australia and NSW government energy-saving guides.
2. Should I leave my AC on all day in summer?
No. Instead, use a programmable thermostat to cool your home only when needed. If you’re away, setting your AC to 28°C or higher will prevent excessive energy consumption.
3. Is 22°C a good AC temperature for summer?
While 22°C feels cool, it’s not energy-efficient. Keeping your AC at 24°C or higher will reduce electricity costs while maintaining comfort.
4. What temperature should I set my AC at night?
For comfortable sleep, set your aircon temperature to 25-27°C. This prevents overcooling and promotes better sleep quality.
5. Why does my AC struggle to cool my home in extreme heat?
If your AC struggles to cool, the issue may be:
🔹 Dirty air filters restricting airflow.
🔹 Improperly sized AC unit for your home.
🔹 Poor insulation allowing heat to enter.
🔹 Lack of regular maintenance, reducing efficiency.
If your AC is underperforming, contact Climashift Pty Ltd for AC servicing in NSW.
Key Takeaways: The Best Air Conditioner Temperature for Summer
✔️ Set your AC to 24-26°C for energy efficiency.
✔️ Use ceiling fans to distribute cool air effectively.
✔️ Keep blinds closed to reduce indoor heat.
✔️ Maintain your AC unit regularly for optimal performance.
✔️ Use zoning systems to cool only the areas you need.
Need Professional Air Conditioning Services in NSW? Contact Climashift Pty Ltd!
At Climashift Pty Ltd, we provide:
✅ Air conditioner installations (split systems, ducted systems & more)
✅ AC repairs & servicing for homes and businesses in NSW
✅ Energy-efficient air conditioning solutions to lower electricity bills
✅ Smart thermostat & zoning system installations
📞 Call us now at +61 418 858 541
📍 Servicing Sydney, Quakers Hill, Acacia Gardens & surrounding NSW areas
