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Is 26 Degrees Celsius or 28 Degrees Celsius More Energy Efficient and Healthier for Summer Air Conditioning?

During the day, the ideal temperature range for air conditioning is between 24°C and 27°C. This temperature range provides a comfortable and pleasant environment, ensuring that the space is neither too cold nor too warm. It's a sweet spot that helps maintain a balanced and energy-efficient indoor climate.

Administrator

15 July, 2024

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Air conditioners are a must-have during hot summers for many families, especially those with young children and elderly members. When turning on the AC, the temperatures 26 °C and 28 °C are the most commonly used settings, but do you know which temperature is more energy-efficient and healthier?

Which temperature is healthier when setting the AC to 26 °C or 28 °C?

Many people believe that setting the AC to 26°C is more comfortable and energy-efficient. However, this is incorrect. The ideal temperature range for comfort during the day is between 24 °C and 27 °C. But at night, setting the AC to 26 °C is not suitable as the outdoor temperature changes, following three different phases.

From 10 p.m. to 12 a.m., the human body temperature is relatively high due to daily activities. The AC should be set to 26°C during this time. However, between 2 and 3 a.m., as the outdoor temperature drops and we enter a deeper sleep, our body temperature lowers slightly, and you may start feeling cold at 26°C.

And from 4 a.m. to 6 a.m., we will feel extremely cold if the AC is still set to 26°C, affecting our sleep quality. Additionally, without a blanket, we are more prone to catching a cold and experiencing symptoms like a stuffy nose, joint pain, dizziness, and body weakness.

Tests have shown that setting the AC to 28°C is the most comfortable and healthiest option as the temperature is neither too high nor too low. Even if you sleep without a blanket, you won’t feel cold.

In fact, during the day, setting the AC to 28 °C is also better than 26 °C. This is because the temperature difference between indoors and outdoors is not too significant, preventing thermal shock for the body.

Which temperature is more energy-efficient when choosing between 26 °C and 28 °C?

From an energy-saving perspective, 28 °C is the more efficient option. Research shows that the lower the set temperature, the more electricity the AC consumes. Increasing the temperature by just 1°C during cooling can save 6-10% of electricity.

To prove this, a study compared the electricity consumption of an AC set to 26 °C and 28 °C for two consecutive days, with the AC running continuously for 8 hours each day. The results showed that the day with the AC set to 28 °C saved 10% more electricity than the day it was set to 26 °C.

Of course, energy savings are not just about increasing the AC temperature. You also need to consider factors such as the room’s insulation, direct sunlight exposure, foot traffic in and out of the room, and whether the AC unit is appropriately sized for the room’s area.

If your room receives direct sunlight, you may need to lower the temperature to feel comfortable. Additionally, if you cook at home or use other heat-generating appliances, these activities will add to the AC’s workload. Therefore, considering these factors is essential for true energy savings.

According to Nguoiduatin

Frequently asked questions

Setting your air conditioner to 26 degrees Celsius is more energy-efficient than 28 degrees Celsius. A lower temperature requires more energy to cool the room, resulting in higher energy consumption and costs.

Maintaining an indoor temperature of 26 degrees Celsius is healthier as it falls within the range recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) for healthy and comfortable living. This temperature helps prevent heat-related illnesses and ensures a comfortable environment for most people.

Besides setting your air conditioner to 26 degrees Celsius, you can optimize energy efficiency and health by ensuring proper insulation and sealing gaps in your home to prevent cool air from escaping. Regularly servicing your air conditioner and using programmable thermostats can also help improve energy efficiency.

Yes, setting your air conditioner to 26 degrees Celsius can help reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to environmental sustainability. It also helps prevent excessive cooling, which can lead to dry skin and respiratory issues.

Besides air conditioning, you can stay cool by wearing lightweight and breathable clothing, staying hydrated, and using fans in conjunction with air conditioning. Also, try to avoid excessive sun exposure during the hottest parts of the day.