How Calgary’s Summer Climate Affects Your AC Usage
While Calgary is better known for its cold winters, our summer months can bring dry, intense heat, especially during July and August. Daytime highs often exceed 30 °C, and with very little humidity, the heat comes on fast and lingers indoors. Homes with large windows, poor insulation, or limited shading can feel especially uncomfortable during the afternoon.
Even though Calgary evenings tend to cool off, your air conditioner still has to work hard during peak daylight hours. This creates a common challenge: how to stay cool without overloading your system or running up your energy bill. The answer lies in understanding how to set your thermostat properly for Calgary’s specific climate, balancing comfort with energy efficiency.
Recommended AC Temperature Settings for Calgary Homes
Finding the right AC temperature isn’t just about comfort, it’s about managing energy use efficiently in Calgary’s dry, often unpredictable summer climate.
When you’re home during the day, we recommend keeping your thermostat between 24 to 26 °C (75 to 79 °F). This range provides a cool indoor environment without making your system work harder than necessary.
If you’re away from home, setting your thermostat to 28 °C or higher can significantly reduce energy usage while still preventing your home from overheating.
At Comfort Union, we’ve found that most Calgary homeowners feel comfortable at around 25 °C, especially when paired with a ceiling fan or good airflow. This temperature offers the right balance between indoor comfort and energy savings, which is especially important during peak summer months.
Setting your AC just a few degrees higher than what feels ideal can noticeably reduce your energy bill without compromising overall comfort.
Why Setting the Right AC Temperature Matters in Calgary
Many homeowners assume that setting the thermostat lower will cool the house faster, but that’s not the case. Air conditioners deliver air at a consistent rate, so lower settings only force the system to run longer, which increases energy consumption without speeding up cooling.
In Calgary, the dry climate plays to your advantage. With low humidity levels, slightly warmer indoor temperatures, such as 25 or 26 °C can still feel comfortable. You don’t need to overcool your home to stay relaxed.
Using moderate temperature settings also helps prevent your AC from overworking. When your system runs continuously, it not only drives up your energy bill but also shortens the lifespan of key components. Smart temperature control keeps you comfortable while extending the life of your unit.
How to Set Your AC at Night and When You're Not Home
Your cooling needs change depending on the time of day and whether you’re home. In the evenings, lowering your thermostat slightly typically to 21 to 23 °C can create a more comfortable sleep environment without overcooling the house.
When you’re away from home, there’s no need to keep your space as cool. Raising the thermostat by 5 to 7 °C while you’re out can significantly reduce energy use and lower your utility bills. Smart thermostats can automate this adjustment, so you don’t have to remember to change settings every time you leave.
This small shift in temperature strategy can make a big difference in both comfort and long-term system efficiency.
Boost Comfort Without Cranking the AC
You don’t always need to lower the thermostat to stay cool. There are several simple ways to stay comfortable while easing the load on your air conditioner:
Use ceiling or portable fans to circulate cool air more effectively. Even a light breeze can make a room feel several degrees cooler.
Keep blinds or curtains closed during the hottest parts of the day, especially on south- and west-facing windows. This helps block direct sunlight and reduce indoor heat buildup.
Ventilate your home early in the morning or later in the evening when outdoor temperatures are cooler. Letting in fresh air at the right times can naturally bring down your indoor temperature.
By combining these techniques with moderate AC settings, you can maintain a comfortable home while saving energy.
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