What temperature should you set your air conditioner in summer?
Updated 14 October 2026
Government energy advice in Australia suggests setting the air conditioner somewhere between 23 and 27°C in summer. The exact range depends on who you ask:
| Source | Summer setting | Saving per degree higher |
|---|---|---|
| Australian Government (energy.gov.au) | 25 to 27°C | 5 to 10% on energy costs |
| Victorian Government | 23 to 26°C | Not stated |
| ACT Government | 23°C or higher | Up to 10% on your cooling bill |
What one degree is worth
Say your air conditioner costs $324 to run over a summer (2 kW for 6 hours a day for 90 days at 30 cents per kWh). If each degree higher saves 5 to 10%, setting it one degree warmer is worth about $16 to $32 over that summer.
The saving comes from the air conditioner working less hard: the smaller the gap between inside and outside, the less heat it has to pump out.
Ways to stay comfortable at a higher setting
- Run a fan as well. Moving air makes the same temperature feel cooler. See fan vs air conditioner running cost.
- Close windows, curtains and blinds in the hottest part of the day.
- Cool only the rooms you're using and close the doors to the rest.
Try it: Electricity running cost calculator: see what your air conditioner costs per day, month and year.
See every bill in one place
The Monthly Budget Planner tracks every bill and expense each month, so you can see where your money goes and what's left.
See the Monthly Budget PlannerSources
- Australian Government energy.gov.au: summer energy savings
- Victorian Government: summer energy saving tips
- ACT Government: how to stay cool in summer and save
Last checked 14 October 2026. Prices in the examples are examples only: use the rate on your own bill. General information only, not financial advice.