Should I turn my AC off when it's cold outside?

Author: Anahi Bruen Jr.  |  Last update: Saturday, March 15, 2025

When the weather forecast predicts temperatures at 60 degrees F or lower, you should turn your outdoor unit off and prepare it for winter weather. Once outdoor temperatures dip below this point, your air conditioner will not function the same as it does in the summer.

Should you turn AC off when cold?

System Maintenance: While you may not need to use the A/C often in winter, periodically running it (even in colder months) can help maintain the system and prevent seals from drying out. In summary, it's fine to turn off the A/C in winter unless you need it for defogging.

Is it bad to run your AC when it's cold outside?

The general rule is to not operate the AC if it is less than 60° outside. If the outdoor temperate is over 60°, then you are good to use it. This is because it can cause damage to the compressor. More specifically, it will cause refrigerant to go into the compressor as a liquid state instead of a gaseous state.

At what temperature outside should you turn off the AC?

That's why the majority of HVAC companies recommend that you do not turn your AC on if the temperature dips below 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Of course, this doesn't mean that you have to rush home to turn it off if the weather takes an unexpected turn.

How cold is too cold for an air conditioner?

The temperature must be below 60 degrees Fahrenheit. The unit's inner coils will freeze. The lubricating fluid will thicken, and the unit will not function properly and may ultimately damage the air conditioner.

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How cool should my house be if it's 90 outside?

If it's 90 degrees outside, most people would set their AC to a perfectly comfortable temperature of 68-72°F.

Will AC freeze up if set too low?

A common rule of thumb is that most models can function properly only above 68 degrees Fahrenheit. Any lower temperature will result in the system freezing up. In addition to a frosty refrigerant, the piping and coils could also become covered with ice.

How cool should my house be if its 100 degrees outside?

Energy Efficiency: Setting the thermostat to 78-80 degrees can help save energy and reduce utility bills. Raising the thermostat during extremely hot days can save you up to 10-15% on your cooling costs, depending on factors like your home's insulation and your AC's efficiency level.

How cold is too cold to run?

And sometimes it may simply be too cold to run—period. Temperatures below -8 degrees Fahrenheit can increase your risk of frostbite and hypothermia, according to the American College of Sports Medicine, and it's possible for tissue injury to occur in less than 30 minutes in these conditions.

Is it better to turn off AC or raise temperature?

While you might be tempted to simply turn the AC off, it's actually better to adjust the temperature several degrees higher, by about 7-10 degrees. By installing a programmable thermostat and making this simple adjustment you can potentially save as much as 10% on your energy bill.

Will my AC freeze if it's cold outside?

If you live in a cold climate, it's likely that your air conditioner will freeze up. In fact, this can happen even if the weather is just mild. The colder it gets and the more moisture in the air, the more likely split system air conditioners and other cooling systems will freeze up.

Is 72 too cold for AC?

While the standard room temperature of 72 degrees Fahrenheit is commonly favored by many, others argue for higher settings, particularly when it's hotter outside.

Can air conditioning worsen cold?

Conclusion. In conclusion, air conditioning does not cause colds, but it can indirectly contribute to their spread. To stay healthy while using air conditioning, make sure to properly maintain your system, keep the air moist, and practice good hygiene.

Is it bad to run AC in cold weather?

Frozen Coils: Running an air conditioner in cold weather can cause the evaporator coils to freeze. This happens because the refrigerant inside the coils can drop below freezing, leading to ice buildup. Frozen coils can restrict airflow and reduce the system's efficiency, eventually causing damage.

When should I turn off my air conditioner?

When should you turn off your air conditioner? The answer is when the average daytime temperature stays consistently below 70 degrees Fahrenheit. But if you want to save money and reduce your environmental impact, it's best to turn off your AC as soon as the weather starts to cool down.

What is the cheapest temperature to keep AC on?

Finding the right AC temperature for your electricity bill is a balancing act. By setting it around 78°F and considering external factors, you can enjoy comfort and save on energy costs simultaneously. Remember, small adjustments can lead to significant savings over time.

What temperature is too cold to go outside?

In general, when the wind chill is 32° and above, it's safe to be outside. In temperatures 13° to 31°, you should take indoor breaks every 20-30 minutes. For wind chills of 13° and below, move activities indoors as frostbite can quickly set in. How Cold Is Too Cold to Go Outside?

Is running in 30 degree weather bad?

While exercising on a blustery, 30-degree day may not be as pleasant as a sunny and 75-degree day, it is possible — and even enjoyable, if you do it right. The key is to dress correctly.

How cold is too cold for your lungs?

Your body does its best to keep your core temperature between 97 and 99 degrees Fahrenheit, and your lungs are encased within the thoracic cavity. Unless your whole body is at risk, freezing your lungs should not be a risk. Your body is well-designed to adapt to cold air.

How cool should my house be if it's 110 outside in summer?

Just because the outdoor temperature is above 100, the Ideal temperature to set your AC unit to doesn't change — it's 78 degrees. Higher temperatures in the home are to be expected when the weather is hotter than usual, but your thermostat can still be set the same as if it were a lower temperature outside.

How long should it take to cool a house from 90 to 72?

Cooling a house from 90 degrees to 72 degrees typically takes about 2 to 4 hours, depending on various factors.

What temperature should I leave my AC on when not home?

But, generally speaking, if you want to get the best cost and comfort, set the temperature on your AC unit to 77 or 78 degrees Fahrenheit, and just leave it running. Bonus points if your unit has an “auto” setting, and if you've made sure the place is weather-tight and insulated.

Should I turn my AC off if it's frozen?

1st Step: Turn Your HVAC Unit Off.

Even if it's sweltering outside, you still need to turn OFF your air conditioner! Running a frozen air conditioner will wear out parts much faster, and could overheat your unit. Worn parts are bad news for the most expensive piece of your HVAC unit—the compressor.

What is the coldest temperature to put your AC on?

When the temperature drops below 65 degrees Fahrenheit, most HVAC manufacturers advise consumers not to run their units for long periods. If you need to test your unit, make sure it has been above 60 degrees Fahrenheit for at least three days before doing so.

Why won't my AC go below 73?

Dirty air filter: A dirty air filter can restrict airflow, which can make it harder for your AC unit to cool your home. If your air filter is dirty, it's recommended to replace it every 1-3 months. Low refrigerant: Refrigerant is a liquid that helps your AC unit transfer heat from inside your home to the outside.

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