In Melbourne’s ever-changing climate, having a reliable air conditioning system is not a luxury — it’s a necessity. But when is the best time...
What’s the Best Temperature to Set Your Air Conditioner in Winter?
Melbourne’s chill has officially kicked in—and if you’ve just switched your air conditioner from cooling to heating, you’re not alone. But now comes the big question:
What’s the Best Temperature to Set Your Air Conditioner in Winter setting for comfort, health, and energy savings this winter?
At Melbourne Aircon Specialists, we recommend setting your air conditioner to 24°C during the day and a few degrees lower at night. This temperature range strikes the right balance between keeping your home warm and avoiding skyrocketing energy bills.
Let’s unpack why it matters.
Why the Right Temperature to Set Your Air Conditioner in Winter Is More Important Than You Think
Choosing the right temperature does more than just keep your toes warm. It affects your comfort, health, and even your heating costs. Here’s why it matters:
🛡️ Health and Immunity
Cold air can reduce the effectiveness of your respiratory system’s natural defences. This makes you more vulnerable to colds, the flu, and other winter bugs.
😮💨 Asthma and Allergies
Overly cold homes can increase indoor humidity, which can trigger asthma symptoms and introduce more allergens like mould, pollen, and dust—especially in homes without proper ventilation.
🌡️ Overheating Risks
Cranking the heat too high can backfire. Overheating—especially at night—can cause dehydration, disturbed sleep, and in extreme cases, heat-related health issues, particularly for older adults.
💸 Energy Bills
Every degree above the recommended 24°C can increase your power usage by 5% (or more). So, setting your system to 28°C might feel cozy—but you’ll definitely notice it when the electricity bill arrives.
🌍 Environmental Impact
Heating systems that run harder use more energy, leading to increased greenhouse gas emissions. Using your air con efficiently helps reduce your carbon footprint while keeping you comfortable.
Recommended Winter Temperatures for Melbourne Homes
The ideal winter air conditioning temperature depends on the time of day and who’s using the space:
- 🌞 During the Day: Aim for 24°C for optimal comfort and efficiency.
- 🌙 At Night: Lower it slightly—between 18°C and 20°C for adults, and 20°C to 22°C for infants, as recommended by health experts.
These settings take into account warm winter bedding and clothing, so you’re not relying solely on your AC to stay comfortable.
💡 Pro Tip: Chat with your household and agree on a temperature that keeps everyone cozy while still being energy-conscious.
What If Your AC Setting Isn’t Doing the Job?
If you’ve set your unit to 24°C and your home still feels too cold (or too warm), your air conditioner might be the wrong size for your space.
An undersized unit will struggle to maintain the set temperature, while an oversized one might cycle on and off too frequently—wasting energy and wearing out faster.
👉 Need help figuring out the right size? Our team at Melbourne Aircon Specialists can assess your space and recommend the perfect system to keep your home consistently comfortable.
5 Tips to Improve Your Heating Efficiency This Winter
Whether you’re using a split system, reverse cycle unit, or ducted heating, these tips will help you get more warmth from less energy:
1. Clean Your Filters
Dusty filters block airflow and force your system to work harder. Clean them every 2–3 months to keep things running smoothly.
2. Upgrade Your Insulation
Up to 35% of your home’s heat can escape through the ceiling. Adding proper roof insulation helps retain warmth and lowers heating costs.
3. Seal Air Leaks
Gaps around doors, windows, and floorboards can let in cold air. Sealing these gaps will help maintain a steady indoor temperature.
4. Use Curtains Smartly
Open your curtains during sunny days to let natural heat in. Close them after sunset to keep the warmth from escaping.
5. Book a Professional Service
An annual service keeps your system in peak condition. Our qualified technicians will check for issues, clean internal components, and ensure your unit is safe and efficient.
Need Help with a Service or New Installation?
At Melbourne Aircon Specialists, we’re here to help you stay warm, save money, and make your home more energy efficient this winter.
📞 Call us today on 1300 001 690
📧 Email: info@melbourneairconspecialist.com.au
🌐 Visit: melbourneairconspecialist.com.au