AC temperature guide: Why running ACs at 24-degree is important
Last Updated: 2026-05-19 16:58:14
The moment summer temperatures start touching 40 degrees, most people do the same thing — switch on the AC and drop the temperature straight to 18°C. It feels satisfying for a few seconds, but according to the Indian government, that setting may be doing more damage to your electricity bill than you realise.
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Government recommends setting ACs at 24°C for energy savings- Each 1°C increase in AC temp cuts power use by about 6 percent
- Running a fan with AC at 24°C improves comfort and airflow
The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), which functions under the Ministry of Power, says 24°C is the ideal temperature for air conditioners in India. That is also why many newer AC models now arrive with 24°C set as the default cooling temperature out of the box.
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And after spending enough summers testing different air conditioners at home, this recommendation actually makes practical sense.
Why 24°C makes more sense than 18°C
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There is a common assumption that lowering the AC temperature cools the room faster. In reality, the AC compressor largely works at a similar pace. What changes is how long it continues running to maintain that lower temperature.
At 18°C or 19°C, the compressor stays under heavier load for longer periods, which naturally increases electricity consumption. A room may feel colder, but it also means the AC is working harder than necessary.
According to BEE estimates, every 1-degree increase in AC temperature can lower electricity usage by roughly 6 percent. So moving from 20°C to 24°C could create a noticeable difference in monthly power consumption, especially during peak summer usage.
The bigger problem is usually airflow, not temperature
One thing many people overlook is air circulation. In several homes, the AC ends up compensating for poor airflow inside the room.
A ceiling fan running at a low or medium speed alongside the AC spreads cool air more evenly, which often makes 24°C feel far more comfortable than expected. I have personally noticed this during long overnight usage. At lower temperatures, the room eventually starts feeling too cold, while 24°C tends to maintain a more balanced cooling experience.
This becomes even more useful in Indian summers where people move constantly between extremely hot outdoor temperatures and heavily cooled indoor environments.
Government is also considering stricter temperature limits
The government has previously discussed introducing a standard operating range for air conditioners between 20°C and 28°C. The larger goal behind this move is reducing unnecessary power consumption as electricity demand continues to rise during summer months across the country.
For now, users still have full control over AC temperatures. But if the goal is balancing comfort, cooling and electricity savings, 24°C remains the temperature officially recommended by the government.: