Smarter Cooling This Summer Why 24 to 25 Degrees May Be the Ideal AC Setting for Comfort and Savings

As temperatures continue to climb across the country in May, air conditioners have become a constant necessity in homes, offices and public spaces. Along with the rising heat, electricity consumption has also surged to worrying levels. In response to this growing pressure on the power system, the Chandigarh administration has issued an important advisory encouraging people and institutions to use air conditioners at a balanced temperature setting.

The advisory recommends keeping ACs between 24 and 25 degrees Celsius in government offices, schools, colleges, hotels, malls and large commercial buildings. Officials believe this simple step can significantly reduce electricity consumption while supporting broader energy conservation efforts. The timing of this decision is crucial, as several regions are already experiencing heavy load on the power grid due to increased cooling demand.

Experts explain that air conditioners are one of the biggest contributors to electricity usage during summer. Many people tend to set their ACs at very low temperatures like 18 or 20 degrees, thinking it will cool the room faster. However, this practice leads to much higher power consumption. Studies suggest that even a one degree drop in temperature setting can increase electricity usage by around six percent, which adds up quickly during long hours of use.

Interestingly, maintaining the AC at 24 to 25 degrees is not just about saving electricity but also about comfort. Health experts point out that this range is generally suitable for the human body, offering a balance between cooling and comfort without putting unnecessary strain on the system. It also helps reduce sudden temperature shocks when moving between indoor and outdoor environments.

The advisory is mainly targeted at high consumption spaces such as corporate offices, educational institutions, shopping complexes and large hospitality units. The administration wants these sectors to take the lead in responsible energy use so that overall demand in the city can be controlled. While the current step is advisory in nature, officials have indicated that stricter measures may be considered in the future if required.

For everyday users, this guideline may require a small change in habit, especially for those used to very cold indoor settings. However, the benefits go beyond just lower electricity bills. Running ACs at moderate temperatures can also reduce wear and tear on the machine, improve efficiency and potentially extend the life of the appliance. Over time, this means fewer maintenance costs and better performance.

On a larger scale, reducing unnecessary cooling demand also contributes to environmental protection. Lower electricity consumption means reduced pressure on power plants and fewer carbon emissions. In simple terms, a small adjustment on the thermostat can play a meaningful role in saving energy, protecting resources and still keeping homes comfortably cool during the peak of summer.