Summers are getting hotter and record high temperatures are becoming more frequent. That is why, the use of air conditioning has become an essential ally of the air conditioning system. for many people and businesses.
But we must not forget that this also has side effects, such as contributing to climate change, or even receive higher billsespecially with the economic instability of energy costs.
One way to reduce these adverse effects is to use air conditioning at the most appropriate temperature but do you know what it is?
In this article, we explain how to adjust the temperature of your air conditioner in order to obtain sufficient comfort without your wallet noticing it.
What will you find in this guide?
Effects of air conditioning on health
We usually associate flu-like states with cold weather. However, we see many people suffering from colds in the summer, when apparently the weather shouldn’t cause such problems.
One of the main reasons is the exposure to sudden changes in temperaturefrom a warm outdoor environment to a cold indoor environment. The disproportionate use of air conditioning is a factor that increases summer colds.
Too much cold air can cause conditions such as laryngitis, dry eyes, migraine, respiratory problems, and even sweating and dizziness, among others, which are often caused by exposure to cold drafts and dryness typical of air conditioners.
Although we tend to focus on the cold, it is also very important to consider the humidity. Actually, The first effect produced by an air conditioner is that of a dehumidifier.. So, if the environment is too dry, you run the risk of becoming dehydrated and therefore feeling unwell and affecting your health.
What is the ideal temperature for an air conditioner?
In the absence of regulations on air conditioning in dwellings, you can take the following as a reference.
The National Institute for Safety and Hygiene at Work (INSTH) website establishes a temperature between 17 and 27°C if the work is sedentary, and between 14 and 25°C for light work. The humidity level should be between 30 and 40%.
On the other hand, for the Institute for Diversification and Savings (IDAE), a temperature of 26°C is the most comfortable.
Finally, the Regulation respecting thermal installations in buildings (RITE) establishes a minimum temperature of 26°C for refrigerated enclosures.
What is the ideal temperature in each room?
With these guidelines for workplaces, you can estimate the right temperature for your home: when you are at home, the activity you do can be compared to sedentary work; therefore, the temperature range to be applied would be between 17°C and 27°C.
Other variables to consider are relative humidity, as well as the number of people in the household and the type of clothing worn.
If you want get a cozy atmosphere, without incurring unnecessary expensewe recommend that you set the thermostat to 26°C and the relative humidity between 40 and 60%.. This will ensure a comfortable habitat.
Do not set the air conditioning to temperatures below 23º, because the room will not cool faster and you will only use more energy. And don’t forget to close doors and windows tightly to prevent cold air from escaping.
Another fact that cooling experts point out is that prevent the difference between the external and internal temperature from exceeding 12°C..
What is the ideal temperature for sleeping with air conditioning.
Colds are common among those who sleep with the air conditioning on, and feeling cold all night can affect your throat and lungs. This could be avoided with a temperature not lower than 26ºC.
Although this figure may seem high, you should keep in mind that your body temperature tends to drop during sleep, so it is not necessary to be so cold.
In regions with high relative humidity, bedroom comfort can be achieved with 28°C.
The ideal temperature depending on the time of year
Just as we might consider the 26ºC as the ideal temperature for summerAccording to RITE regulations, the heating temperature in winter must not be higher than 21°C.
Throughout the year, the relative humidity should be between 30 and 70%.in summer as in winter.
Ideal temperatures depending on the time of year:
| Station | Operating temperature ºC | Relative humidity %[19659032 |
| Summer | 23 to 25 | 45 – 60 |
| Winter | 21 to 23 | 40 – 50 |
Source: IDAE
What is the power consumption of an air conditioner?
To analyze the electricity consumption for the air conditioning of a room, you must take into account the following elements, The greater the number of degrees to be reduced, the higher the energy consumption will be. and therefore higher costs.
On the other hand, consider its efficiency, because the higher the energy efficiency (SEER), the lower the power (kW) required.
For calculate the amount of energy consumed per hourBy dividing the power by the SEER coefficient indicated on the equipment, it is sufficient to divide the power by the SEER coefficient indicated on the equipment. For example, if our air conditioner has an average power of 3.5 kW and its SEER is 4, it will need 0.875 kW from the system to operate. To know how much money will it cost you per hourThis system power must then be multiplied by the price per kW/h indicated on your bill.
When choosing your air conditioner, it will also be useful to know its energy certification, which is reflected in a label with a letter. Those rated A++ or A+++ are the most energy-efficient and high-efficiency appliances..
