When the Gold Coast hits a heat wave – sticky afternoons, high humidity, and nights that barely cool down – most homeowners reach for one solution: turn the AC way down. But here’s the truth every HVAC professional knows: The lower you set your thermostat during a heat wave, the harder your system must fight… and the less comfortable your home actually feels. So what is the ideal AC temperature during a heatwave? And how do you stay cool without burning out your system or your energy bill? DEEPCHILL – with over 40 years of air conditioning Gold Coast experience – breaks it down with expert-backed clarity.
What’s the ideal AC temperature during a heat wave?
The sweet spot is 25–26°C for most Gold Coast homes.
Here’s why:
1. It matches Queensland humidity conditions
During a heatwave, the temperature outside can be 30–35°C or higher. Your AC can cool your home effectively, but it performs best when the thermostat is set 8–10°C lower than the outside temperature.
This prevents overloading the compressor.
2. Lower temperatures don’t cool faster
Setting your AC to 18°C won’t cool the room quicker.
It only makes the unit run longer, harder, and hotter, increasing the risk of breakdown – especially during heat waves when systems already work at maximum load.
3. 25–26°C is the best balance between comfort and efficiency
Most homeowners feel comfortable at this temperature when humidity is controlled.
And humidity control is one thing Gold Coast AC systems excel at… when they’re maintained properly.
Tips for staying cool without overworking your AC
If you want your home to feel cooler without pushing your thermostat too low, follow these simple pro habits from DEEPCHILL technicians.
1. Pre-cool early in the day
Run your AC from the morning at 25–26°C instead of waiting until the house is already 32°C inside.
Preventing heat buildup is easier than fighting it.
2. Keep curtains and blinds closed
Up to 40% of heat in Gold Coast homes enters through uncovered windows.
Blocking sunlight = immediate cooling impact.
3. Use fans to boost airflow
Whether it’s a ceiling fan or a portable one, moving air helps your body feel 2–3°C cooler.
This means you don’t need to drop the thermostat any lower.
4. Avoid heat-heavy appliances
During peak heat hours (11 AM–4 PM):
- Skip the oven
- Delay laundry
- Avoid long stove-top cooking
These appliances add unnecessary heat for your AC to fight against.
5. Seal gaps and keep doors closed
Cool air escapes faster than you think.
Even small gaps around sliding doors or windows can make your AC run 20–30% longer.
6. Maintain a clean, efficient system
A poorly maintained AC can’t cool or dehumidify properly during extreme heat.
Your system needs:
- Clean filters
- Clear indoor vents
- A debris-free outdoor unit
- Annual preventative maintenance
If your AC is struggling this heat wave, DEEPCHILL offers same-day checks to keep your home protected.
Final word: Comfort without the burnout
Setting the ideal AC temperature during heat wave conditions isn’t about freezing the house – it’s about helping your cooling system work smarter, not harder.
Set it between 25–26°C, keep your home shaded, use fans, and maintain your system.
These small habits protect your comfort… and your air conditioner.
Need your AC checked before the next heat spike?
DEEPCHILL – your air conditioning Gold Coast specialists – are ready when you are.
