The debate over the ideal AC temperature is not a new one. We know that, every year, countless families engage in thermostat battles. In the summer, some think they can beat the heat better by turning the AC way down when it’s hotter outside, but is this correct? Read on to find out the ideal summer temperature for your home and why you shouldn’t set your AC “too low.”
The Ideal Summer AC Thermostat Setting
Natural Resources Canada recommends keeping your AC set to somewhere between 22-25°C. Ideally, you should set the temperature as high as you can comfortably manage. This will help your AC run more efficiently and effectively. It can also save you money on your utilities! When you leave the house, you can set the temperature a bit higher because no one will be home. Doing so will mean you’re not cooling your house unnecessarily.
Don’t Set the Thermostat Too Low
While many homeowners are tempted to turn the temperature way down the hotter it gets, this can result in unnecessary energy consumption, extra strain on your cooling system, and higher utility costs.
There are more reasons not to set the thermostat too low in the summer.
Frozen Coils
If the air conditioning temperature is set too low, particularly below 19 degrees°C, it can cause the evaporator coil to become extremely cold. When a space has high humidity, condensation can form on the coil, which causes the formation of frost or ice. As the frost or ice builds up on the coil, it affects the airflow and cooling process. In severe cases, the coil can become completely encased in ice, blocking the airflow entirely. This can lead to costly damage to your AC system.
Increased Wear & Tear
Setting the AC temperature considerably lower than the outdoor temperature forces your system to run constantly. This puts added strain on the unit’s compressor, fan, and other essential components. And an AC that runs, leading to a reduced lifespan of the unit and the possibility of breakdowns. To help your AC function its best and last as long as possible, set the temperature at a reasonable level and avoid major temperature differences between the indoor and outdoor environments.
Your Health
There’s another important reason to avoid setting your AC temperature too low, and that’s for the sake of your health. When the thermostat is set at 20 degrees C or lower, it can create temperature imbalances within a space. Some areas may become uncomfortably cold while others are warmer. Rapid temperature changes can also occur, which can lead to discomfort and contribute to health issues such as headaches or respiratory problems.
Upgrade Your Thermostat at Team Harding
Now that you know the best recommendations for your home temperature in the summer, is it time to upgrade your thermostat? With a programmable or smart thermostat, you can set the temperature and lock it in. Plus, smart thermostats allow you to remotely control the temperature. That means no more fighting over the temperature and no more sneaky temperature changes! Keeping your AC set to a comfortable yet reasonable temperature helps your system work better, last longer, and run more efficiently. And that saves you money!
Upgrade to a programmable or smart thermostat for enhanced comfort and savings!
Get your thermostat at Team Harding!
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Team Harding has been Ottawa’s leading home comfort specialist since 1994. We are a family-owned and operated local business and all of our installers and technicians are fully licensed.
