Here’s the ideal temperature to set your air conditioner when it's extremely hot outside.

Air conditioning: the ideal temperature during heat waves

Experts recommend maintaining a difference of 5-10°C between the outdoor temperature and the indoor temperature. Thus, if the thermometer outside reads 35°C, the air conditioner should be set between 25-30°C. This approach ensures a smooth transition between the outdoor and indoor environments, avoiding the thermal shock that can affect the body.

It's important to remember that the air conditioner temperature should not drop below 22°C, even on the hottest days. Extremely low temperatures can lead to discomfort, colds, muscle pain and dry mucous membranes. It is also advised to avoid direct exposure to the cold airflow to prevent health issues.

In addition to setting the correct temperature, it’s essential to gradually adapt to temperature changes. When entering a cool room from outside, it’s advisable to slowly reduce the air conditioner temperature by a few degrees every 15-20 minutes to allow your body to acclimate, according to eu.democratandchronicle.com.

How a too-low air conditioner temperature can affect you

Extended exposure to low air conditioner temperatures can have a significant impact on our health, both in the short term and long term. Although the coolness provided by air conditioning can be a blessing on hot days, abuse of low temperatures can trigger a series of adverse reactions in the body.

One of the most immediate effects of exposure to cold air conditioning is thermal shock. This manifests as chills, headaches, dizziness and even loss of consciousness in extreme cases. Thermal shock occurs when the body does not have time to adjust to sudden temperature changes, and blood vessels constrict rapidly, affecting blood circulation.

In the long term, exposure to low air conditioning temperatures can weaken the immune system. Studies have shown that low temperatures can inhibit the production of white blood cells, which are responsible for defending the body against infections. Thus, people who spend a lot of time in environments with cold air conditioning may be more susceptible to colds, flu and other respiratory infections.

Another negative effect of cold air conditioning is dehydration. Cold air has low humidity, which can lead to dry skin and mucous membranes. This can cause irritation of the eyes, nose and throat, as well as itching and discomfort. Dehydration can also affect kidney function and lead to kidney stone formation.

People with respiratory conditions, such as asthma or bronchitis, may be particularly sensitive to the effects of cold air conditioning. Cold and dry air can irritate the airways and trigger asthma attacks or bronchitis. Additionally, people with circulatory issues may experience exacerbation of symptoms as low temperatures can constrict blood vessels and reduce blood flow to extremities.

To minimize the risks associated with air conditioning use, it is important to set the temperature at a comfortable level that is not too low. It is also recommended to avoid direct exposure to cold airflow and stay properly hydrated. If symptoms such as chills, headaches or difficulty breathing occur, it is important to consult a doctor.

Is it good to sleep with the air conditioning on?

Sleeping during heat waves can be challenging for many of us. Using air conditioning during the night is a common practice on hot summer days, but the benefits and risks associated with it are debated among experts.

On one hand, maintaining a comfortable temperature in the bedroom can significantly improve sleep quality. Studies have shown that high temperatures can disrupt sleep, leading to frequent awakenings and a feeling of fatigue upon waking. Air conditioning can help regulate body temperature and create a conducive environment for restful sleep. Additionally, air conditioning can reduce humidity in the air, which can be beneficial for people with allergies or respiratory issues.

However, there are also potential drawbacks to using air conditioning at night. One of the most common risks is dehydration. Air conditioning dries out the air in the room, which can lead to dryness of the nasal mucous membranes and throat, causing discomfort and irritation. Additionally, prolonged exposure to cold air can lead to muscle stiffness and joint pain, according to Ariston.com.

Another important aspect to consider is the impact of air conditioning on the immune system. Some studies suggest that prolonged exposure to low temperatures can weaken the immune system, making us more susceptible to infections.

Air conditioning can also contribute to the spread of bacteria and viruses if the unit is not cleaned and maintained properly.