For Canadian Homes: Balancing Comfort, Savings & Sustainability
When summer hits Ottawa, keeping your home cool becomes a top priority. But while air conditioning brings relief from rising temperatures, it also raises a key question for homeowners: What temperature should you set your AC in summer?
The goal is to strike a balance between comfort and energy efficiency. Setting the right thermostat temperature helps you stay cool without overworking your system—or your budget.
The Ideal AC Temperature for Summer in Canada
For most households, the ideal AC temperature during summer is between 24°C and 26°C (75°F to 78°F). This range is recommended by energy authorities and HVAC professionals because it maintains comfort while keeping electricity use in check.
While it may be tempting to lower the thermostat to 20°C or below on a scorching day, it often leads to unnecessary energy consumption and a spike in your electricity bill.
Adjust Based on Your Daily Routine
When You’re Home
Stick to 24°C to 26°C—this is the sweet spot for comfort and savings.
When You’re Away
Raise the setting to 28°C–30°C, or turn off your system if no one will be home for an extended time. This can save cost on electricity consumption without compromising comfort when you return.
At Night
Lowering your AC slightly to 23°C–24°C can help with sleep. Use your unit’s eco mode or a programmable timer to adjust temperatures gradually while you rest.
Keep Indoor and Outdoor Temperatures Within 12°C
A major tip from health experts: avoid drastic indoor/outdoor temperature differences. A gap of more than 12°C can shock your system—and your body. So if it’s 34°C outside, keep your indoor air around 24°C–26°C, not lower. (Reference: https://greenbuildingcanada.ca/temperature-set-air-conditioner/)
Boosting Comfort Without Overcooling
Lowering the temperature isn’t the only way to feel cooler. Try these tips to maximize AC efficiency:
- Use ceiling or oscillating fans to circulate air
- Keep blinds or curtains closed during the hottest parts of the day
- Seal windows and doors to prevent cool air from escaping
- Add a dehumidifier to reduce humidity and improve air quality
These measures work together to support your cooling system and reduce load.
Smart Thermostats and Energy Savings
Smart home integration is a game-changer. Smart thermostats can learn your schedule, adjust settings when you’re away, and even respond to outdoor temperature changes. This not only helps save energy, but also makes your home more responsive and efficient.
Beyond convenience, smart thermostats allow for precise control over your indoor environment. Many models track energy usage and suggest settings that reduce costs without sacrificing comfort. Some even monitor indoor humidity and send maintenance reminders to keep your system running at its best.
When connected to your mobile device, a smart thermostat lets you manage your AC settings remotely—ensuring you never cool an empty house. Over time, this level of control can lead to measurable savings and increased efficiency.
Is It Okay to Sleep with the AC On All Night?
Yes—but smartly. Set your thermostat to around 23°C–24°C, activate night mode if your system offers it, and make sure airflow isn’t directed right at your bed. Using fans can further help maintain comfort while reducing how hard your system needs to work.
What If It’s 30°C or Hotter Outside?
Don’t drop your thermostat too low just because it’s hot. Your AC is designed to cool steadily, not instantly. Overcooling wastes energy and causes wear on your system. Focus on air circulation, humidity control, and avoiding heat gain through windows.
Understanding how does air conditioner works helps here: it gradually removes heat from your home—not by blowing cold air like a fan, but by exchanging heat with the outside environment. Overloading it by setting extreme lows only increases strain.
Is 20°C Too Low?
In most cases—yes. Going below 24°C typically increases energy usage by 3–5% per degree and can lead to health discomforts like dry throat or chills. Unless medically necessary, keeping your cooling moderate is best for both your comfort and your wallet.
AC System Tip: Choose a High-Efficiency Unit
If your system struggles to maintain temperature or your bills are unusually high, it may be time to upgrade to a high efficiency unit. Today’s systems use less energy, cool more effectively, and reduce your carbon footprint.
If you’re planning an upgrade or need help with your current system, our team specializes in Ottawa Air Conditioning Installation to ensure you’re set up with the best system for your home’s size and needs.
AC Running Rough or Not Cooling Properly?
Don’t ignore it—these may be signs your unit needs attention. Uneven cooling, strange noises, short cycling, or rising energy bills could point to clogged filters, low refrigerant, worn components, or a failing compressor.
Timely inspection and maintenance can prevent small issues from becoming costly repairs. Ignoring these warning signs may not only reduce efficiency but also strain your system during peak heat, leading to complete breakdowns.
Our certified technicians offer trusted AC Repair Ottawa services to keep your system running safely and efficiently throughout the summer. We diagnose problems quickly, provide honest assessments, and help extend the life of your cooling system.
Finding the Right Temperature:
Every home is different, and comfort is personal. But in general, keeping your thermostat between 24°C and 26°C during the summer, adjusting based on your routine, and supporting your AC system with smart strategies will keep you cool and help you save.
By setting realistic expectations and making small adjustments, you can enjoy comfortable air conditioning in home in Ottawa without overspending—or overheating.
Need help optimizing your home cooling? Contact Rick Menard Heating & Cooling today for expert guidance and reliable service tailored to your needs.
