Are you trying to keep your home comfortable without burning through your energy budget? The temperature you set on your air conditioner has a significant impact on both your energy consumption and your electricity bills. But what’s the magic number for year-round savings and comfort?
This guide breaks it all down—from summer cooling tips to winter prevention strategies and everything in between. Plus, we’ll highlight why upgrading to a smart thermostat could save you even more.
Best Air Con Temperature for Summer in Australia
In the Australian summer, air conditioning can account for over 40% of household energy use.” (Backed by sources like YourHome.gov.au) The key to saving money without sweating it through the Australian summer heat is to set your air con between 25°C and 26°C. Here’s why this range is ideal:
- Maximises Efficiency: For every degree cooler than 25°C, your energy consumption rises by up to 10%. Keeping your thermostat slightly higher reduces strain on your system, while still keeping you comfortable.
- Avoids Overworking Your Air Conditioner: Setting your air con too low forces it to work harder, increasing wear and tear on your unit.
- Preserves Comfort: The upper-20°C range strikes a balance that feels pleasant, especially when using a ceiling or pedestal fan as a supplement.
Pro Tips:
- Close windows, blinds, and doors during the hottest parts of the day to trap cool air and make your air con work more efficiently.
- Use a smart air conditioning system like MyPlaceIQ with a 10 zone system to ensure you are only cooling the rooms you are needing.
Recommended Air Conditioner Temperature for Winter in Australia
Air conditioners during winter in Australia? It’s not as strange as it sounds! Many people rely on reverse-cycle air conditioners that can both cool and heat their homes. But beyond just keeping things cosy, using your air con in winter can help prevent issues like mould growth, especially in humid regions.
Here’s how:
- Use a Set-Point Around 18°C to 20°C when heating your home to stay efficient.
- Control Humidity: Running your air conditioner on a low setting can help maintain air circulation and balance moisture. This keeps your home drier and reduces the risk of common winter issues like mildew or mould.
Bonus Tip:
If you’re concerned about energy consumption during winter, ensure doors and windows are well-sealed to minimise heat loss.
Best Spring & Autumn air Conditioner temperature Settings for Comfort and Efficiency
Spring and autumn are milder seasons where heavy-duty air con usage isn’t often necessary. For these transitional periods:
- If it’s needed, keep the temperature set at 23°C to take the edge off warm afternoons without wasting energy.
- Alternatively, use natural ventilation to your advantage by opening windows and creating cross-breezes where possible.
These shoulder seasons are also a great time to have your air con unit cleaned and serviced, ensuring it’s in peak condition before you need it for cooling or heating.
Guide for Ideal Year-Round Air Conditioning Temperature for Energy Savings
How Smart Air Conditioning Improves Energy Efficiency
Want to fine-tune your temperature settings effortlessly and save even more energy? It’s time to consider a smart air conditioning system. Smart air con optimises your air con usage based on your daily routine, ensuring you’re not spending unnecessarily.
Features to look out for include:
- Adaptive Schedules: Set different temperatures for work hours, weekends, and evenings.
- Remote Access: Control your home’s temperature from anywhere using your smartphone.
- Smart zoning: To ensure you are only cooling or heating the rooms you are using.
Popular options in Australia include Google Nest, Ecobee, and Sensibo, which are compatible with most air conditioning systems. Investing in one can reduce your energy consumption by up to 20% annually.
Thinking Long-Term:
Smart thermostats work seamlessly in smart home ecosystems, so if you’re planning other upgrades like smart lighting or sensors, it’s a must-have.
How Homeowners Can Find Their Perfect Temperature
Finding the ideal AC temperature often boils down to striking a balance between comfort and cost. While the suggestions above offer a great starting point, every household is different. Use this as a guide but don’t hesitate to experiment.
Try adjusting the temperature to see what works best for you and your family. Pay attention to your comfort levels and track your energy bills to identify any noticeable savings. With consistent effort and smart tools like a modern thermostat, you’ll keep your home pleasant and your wallet happy.
If you want to maximise your energy bill savings all year-round, MyPlaceIQ is proven to increase energy savings by up to 46%. For more information, check out our energy modelling study results here.