Air conditioning: How cold is too cold?
Air conditioning is the process of removing heat and moisture from the interior of an occupied space, to improve the comfort of occupants. There are times when we are extremely thankful for air conditioning, usually after we have had a long workout on a hot summer’s day and still sweating after a cold shower. But what temperature are we really comfortable at? Have we become addicted to air conditioning?Most people will feel comfortable at room temperature, colloquially a range of temperatures around 20 to 22 °C (68 to 72 °F), but this may vary greatly between individuals and depending on factors such as activity level, clothing, and humidity.
Save Money and Stay Cool
To stay comfortable and save money this summer, the U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78F (26C) when you are home. If you’re not used to a 78-degree AC setting, it may feel uncomfortable at first, but you can follow these simple tips to keep your home cool and comfortable all summer long.
- Add awnings over windows to block heat.
- Install ceiling fans to increase cooling efficiency
- Limit use of appliances that generate heat, like the oven and stove, until after 8pm
The best way to find what your family thinks is comfortable is to do some testing. When you find the maximum comfort level temperature, use that.
