Govt Plans To Lock AC Temp Between 20°C-28°C: Here’s How You Can Save On Your Bill

With much of north India reeling under a punishing heatwave and the India Meteorological Department issuing repeated alerts, the Union Government is moving to rein in excessive air conditioning use. Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs Manohar Lal Khattar on Tuesday announced that the Centre is preparing to enforce new air conditioning standards across the country.

“Regarding air conditioning standards, a new provision is being implemented soon. The temperature standardisation for ACs will be set between 20°C to 28°C, meaning we won’t be able to cool below 20°C or warm above 28°C. This is a first-of-its-kind experiment, aiming to standardise temperature settings,” Khattar stated.

The proposed rule will apply to both residential and commercial spaces. Once enforced, air conditioners will not be allowed to cool interiors below 20°C or heat them above 28°C. “We have decided the minimum temperature of ACs will be fixed at 20 degrees Celsius and the maximum at 28 degrees Celsius to bring uniformity to air conditioning use and help reduce excessive power consumption due to extremely low cooling settings,” the minister added.

Why Is the Government Doing This?

The move is rooted in concerns over rising electricity demand, especially during peak summer months when cooling appliances stretch the national power grid to its limit. By enforcing a uniform temperature range, the Centre hopes to nudge citizens toward more energy-conscious choices.

According to reports, the Government sees this as a step toward reducing the electricity load from high-demand appliances like air conditioners, especially those set to extremely low temperatures. The initiative also aligns with India’s larger energy conservation goals and climate commitments.

What It Means for Households and Businesses

If implemented, this rule will directly impact the way Indians use air conditioners. Many units currently allow temperature settings as low as 16°C or 18°C. Under the new norm, such levels will be off-limits, with cooling locked at a minimum of 20°C and heating at a ceiling of 28°C.

The regulation is expected to be enforced via new manufacturing standards and possibly retrofitting mechanisms, although clarity on implementation is still awaited.

Simple Tips to Save on Your AC Bill

While standardising AC temperatures is one way to reduce power consumption, you can adopt certain smarter energy practices to reduce your bill:

• Regular Maintenance: Clean air filters frequently and schedule annual servicing for optimal efficiency.
• Smart Usage: Use fans alongside ACs, set timers, and choose eco or energy-saving modes.
• Insulate Smartly: Seal window gaps, use heavy curtains, and consider thermal insulation to retain cool air.
• Upgrade Appliances: Use LED lights, voltage stabilisers, and consider switching to inverter ACs for better efficiency.

As India balances rising energy demands with sustainability goals, the AC temperature standardisation may soon become a key behavioural nudge to cool responsibly, without overloading the planet or the power grid.