One of the most frequently asked questions we receive is ‘what temperature should I set my heat pump / air conditioner to?’ To achieve an optimal balance between performance and energy usage, we recommend that you set your heat pump / air conditioner temperature between 23-26 degrees (cooling) in summer and 18-21 degrees (heating) in winter. Setting the unit to extremely low temperatures in summer and very warm temperatures in winter can put unnecessary load on the unit and consume more energy.
While the above recommendation covers the general use of heat pump / air conditioners, there may be other factors to consider when deciding on the best heat pump temperature settings.
The level of relative humidity in the air can make it feel warmer than the actual temperature. Setting your heat pump / air conditioner to a lower temperature not only cools the space, but can help remove moisture from the air. You can also switch your heat pump / air conditioner to the ‘dry mode’ function, where the fan operates at a low speed, drawing air through the unit to remove moisture from the room. Dry mode is ideal for days when the weather is humid, yet the temperature is too cool to use cooling mode.
If your house is empty for extended periods, consider setting your heat pump / air conditioner to a higher temperature, or switching it off entirely. Programmable timers can be used to help automate this process, providing a comfortable environment that is based on your daily schedule.
Adjusting your thermostat based on the time of day can help reduce energy consumption while maintaining a comfortable living environment. For example, at night, a lack of sunlight means you may be able to increase the indoor temperature without compromising on comfort.
In the cooler months, it’s important to balance the need to stay warm with the need to conserve energy. Our guides identify the most efficient heat pump settings for winter as being between 18 and 21 degrees, however you may wish to adjust these recommendations based on your personal comfort or the needs of your household. It is also recommended that you tweak the settings on your remote to reflect the shorter winter days. It’s important to have your heat pump / air conditioner professionally serviced annually (depending on use) to keep it running at its best.
The best heat pump temperature settings for summer are generally between 23 and 26 degrees, as this range allows for optimal energy usage and comfort levels. However, it’s also important to consider whether you need to lower the temperature on your heat pump / air conditioner to combat the level of humidity outside. Other measures you can take in summer to remain comfortable include blocking out heat by drawing curtains or blinds, ensuring the space is well insulated to reduce the strain on your heat pump / air conditioning system, and setting timers to cool the space before it is occupied.
Contact the experts at Fujitsu General for more heat pump / air conditioning energy saving tips, or to receive advice on upgrading the heat pump / air conditioning system in your home.