Singapore’s weather can be unforgiving. With high humidity levels and temperatures that hover above 30°C almost all year round, staying cool isn’t just a comfort – it’s a necessity. While turning on the aircon seems like the obvious solution, blasting it at the lowest temperature is not always the smartest or most energy-efficient choice. Knowing how to set your aircon properly can help you beat the heat while also saving money and keeping your system running smoothly.
Set the right temperature, not the coldest one
It’s tempting to set the aircon to 16°C the moment you walk into a warm room. But this doesn’t cool the space any faster. It only makes the unit work harder and longer, which drives up electricity bills and adds strain to your system. For most hot days in Singapore, the optimal aircon setting is around 24°C to 25°C. This strikes a balance between comfort and energy efficiency.
Keeping your unit at this range prevents overcooling and maintains a consistent indoor climate. If the humidity still makes it uncomfortable, you can use a ceiling fan alongside the aircon to help with air circulation.
Use fan mode or dry mode during humid afternoons
Afternoons in Singapore can feel extra stuffy due to humidity. Instead of relying solely on cooling mode, try switching your aircon to “dry” mode. This setting helps reduce humidity in the room without significantly lowering the temperature. You’ll feel cooler because the moisture in the air decreases, and the space becomes less sticky.
Fan mode, on the other hand, helps circulate air without activating the compressor. It doesn’t cool the room directly, but it can be useful during slightly warm but bearable periods, especially in the evenings or early mornings when the air is already cooler.
Close windows and curtains to trap cool air
Even the most efficient aircon settings can’t overcome the effects of sunlight streaming through open windows. If your room faces the sun during the day, draw the curtains or blinds to keep it from heating up. This helps the aircon maintain your desired temperature with less effort. Make sure doors and windows are properly sealed too. When cool air escapes and warm air enters, the aircon needs to work much harder.
In HDB flats and condominiums, where space is more compact, these small changes can make a big difference to the overall indoor temperature.
Adjust settings before leaving home
Leaving your aircon on at full power when nobody’s home is wasteful. If you have a programmable or smart aircon system, take advantage of the timer or schedule features. Set the aircon to switch on 15–30 minutes before you return home, so you walk into a cool space without running the unit all day.
If your system doesn’t have smart features, you can consider upgrading during your next aircon installation. Many newer models come with energy-saving modes and smart controls that allow you to adjust settings remotely.
Maintain your aircon regularly for best performance
No matter how optimal your settings are, a poorly maintained aircon won’t cool effectively. Clogged filters, dirty coils and refrigerant issues can reduce efficiency and raise your electricity bills. Regular maintenance ensures that your system runs smoothly and performs well even during the hottest days.
In Singapore’s climate, aircon units often run daily. That’s why scheduling servicing every 3 to 4 months is recommended. Keeping an eye on your aircon servicing price can help you plan ahead and ensure you don’t miss essential tune-ups. It’s also helpful to engage a trusted service provider that offers transparent and affordable packages.
Avoid setting the fan speed to low on hot days
When it’s extremely hot, keeping the fan speed on low might feel more comfortable, but it can actually make cooling less effective. Higher fan speeds improve air circulation and distribute the cool air more evenly throughout the room. If the aircon is set to a comfortable temperature, increasing the fan speed helps you feel cooler faster without needing to lower the temperature setting itself.
On milder days or at night, you can reduce the fan speed to conserve energy without compromising comfort.
Place your aircon unit wisely
If you’re planning a new aircon installation, the placement of the indoor unit matters. Install it in a location where air can circulate freely and not be blocked by furniture or walls. For bedrooms, placing the unit above the bed might feel intuitive, but it could lead to direct airflow that causes discomfort or dryness while sleeping.
For living rooms and common areas, position the unit where it can distribute cool air evenly, reaching all corners without obstruction. This ensures your chosen settings work effectively across the whole room.
Make small adjustments based on your lifestyle
Every household has different routines. Whether you’re working from home, managing a household, or returning after long hours in the office, understanding your aircon needs throughout the day helps you adjust settings more intelligently. For example, bedrooms may not need the same cooling intensity as living rooms during the day, and using timers can prevent overuse.
By taking a few minutes to adjust your settings based on your lifestyle, you reduce wear and tear on the unit while keeping energy bills in check.
Stay cool with Affordable Aircon Pte Ltd
Singapore’s heat isn’t going away anytime soon, but staying cool doesn’t have to cost a fortune. With the right settings and a well-maintained system, you can enjoy a comfortable home environment year-round. For reliable service, expert installation and practical aircon advice tailored to your needs, reach out to Affordable Aircon Pte Ltd today. Let us help you stay cool the smart way.