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With summer temperatures rising across India, air conditioners have become a necessity for many households. However, continuous AC usage can also lead to a sharp increase in monthly electricity bills. The good news is that a simple change in your AC settings can help reduce power consumption without completely compromising comfort.

One of the easiest ways to save electricity is to set your air conditioner at around 24–26°C instead of using very low temperatures such as 16–18°C.

Why the Temperature Setting Matters

Many people believe that setting an AC to 16°C will cool a room faster than setting it to 24°C. However, an air conditioner generally works toward reaching the temperature selected on the thermostat. Setting the temperature extremely low does not necessarily make the room cool proportionately faster, but it can make the AC run for longer and consume more electricity.

A moderate temperature setting allows the compressor to cycle more efficiently once the desired room temperature is reached.

The 24–26°C Setting Can Help Reduce Consumption

Energy-saving recommendations commonly encourage households to avoid unnecessarily low thermostat settings. A setting around 24–26°C can provide a balance between comfort and energy efficiency for many people.

Even a small increase in the thermostat setting can reduce the cooling load on the AC. The exact savings, however, will depend on factors such as room size, outdoor temperature, insulation, AC efficiency, usage hours and electricity tariff.

For example, if an AC is used for several hours every day, reducing its cooling load can make a noticeable difference over an entire month.

Use Sleep Mode at Night

Another useful feature available on many modern ACs is Sleep Mode or a similar temperature-control function.

During sleep, the body generally does not require the same level of cooling as during the day. Sleep mode can automatically adjust the temperature over time and may reduce unnecessary compressor operation.

If your AC has this feature, using it at night can be a simple way to improve energy efficiency.

Keep Doors and Windows Closed

Even the best AC setting cannot save much electricity if cooled air is continuously escaping from the room.

Make sure doors and windows are properly closed while the AC is running. Curtains or blinds can also help reduce the amount of heat entering the room, particularly when direct sunlight falls on windows.

Reducing heat entering the room means the AC does not have to work as hard to maintain the desired temperature.

Clean the AC Filter Regularly

A dirty air filter can restrict airflow and make an AC work harder. Regular cleaning of the filter can help maintain proper airflow and cooling performance.

How frequently the filter needs cleaning depends on usage, indoor air quality and the manufacturer’s recommendations. Homes with more dust or frequent AC use may require more frequent cleaning.

Don’t Ignore the AC’s Energy Rating

When purchasing a new air conditioner, consumers should also look at its BEE star rating and energy-efficiency information.

A more efficient AC may have a higher upfront price but can potentially consume less electricity over its operating life. The savings can become significant for households that use air conditioning for several months each year.

How Much Can You Actually Save?

There is no single fixed amount that every household will save by changing the AC temperature. Claims that one particular setting will automatically save “thousands of rupees” should therefore be treated as an estimate rather than a guarantee.

Actual savings depend on the AC’s capacity and efficiency, daily operating hours, room conditions, outdoor temperature and local electricity rates.

Still, combining a moderate thermostat setting with proper maintenance, efficient usage and reduced heat entry can help lower overall electricity consumption.

Simple AC Habits That Can Lower Your Electricity Bill

• Set the AC around 24–26°C according to your comfort.
• Use Sleep Mode at night if your AC provides it.
• Keep doors and windows closed while cooling.
• Clean the AC filter regularly.
• Use curtains or blinds to block direct sunlight.
• Avoid unnecessarily setting