AC at 22°C Best for Your Health, Say Experts
As North India battles record-breaking heatwaves with temperatures soaring past 45°C, the government’s new plan to standardize air conditioning settings may offer more than just energy savings — it could improve public health.
Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Manohar Lal Khattar recently announced that air conditioners in buildings and vehicles will soon be subject to a regulated temperature range. Under the new rule, indoor spaces cannot be cooled below 20°C or heated above 28°C. This initiative, aimed at reducing excessive energy use and environmental impact, is being hailed as a first-of-its-kind move in India.
While the regulation is part of the government’s push toward climate-conscious infrastructure, health experts say the policy could help prevent a range of health issues triggered by overly cold environments.
Why 22°C to 24°C Is Ideal Indoors
Dr. Suranjit Chatterjee, senior consultant in internal medicine at Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, explains that extreme cooling can disrupt the body’s natural heat regulation. “Moving from a room chilled to 18°C into 45°C outdoors causes a temperature shock,” he says. This sudden shift can lead to colds, fatigue, and even stress on internal organs.
According to Dr. Chatterjee, the body functions like a natural thermostat, constantly working to maintain internal balance. When people stay in excessively cold rooms, especially for long periods, this balance is disturbed, particularly for the elderly or individuals with existing health conditions like heart, kidney, or liver diseases.
He recommends maintaining room temperatures between 22°C and 24°C. This range offers sufficient cooling while allowing the body to adjust more easily when stepping outside.
Impact on Sleep and Respiratory Health
Temperature also affects sleep quality. Dr. Vibhu Kawatra, pulmonologist and allergy specialist, points out that cooler rooms at night can lead to poor sleep. “Your muscles may subtly contract in cold conditions, interrupting rest. Warmer environments help muscles relax and promote deeper sleep,” he explains.
Excessively cold air can also increase the risk of respiratory issues. Dr. Prashant Sinha, head of emergency at PSRI Hospital in New Delhi, says many patients come in with symptoms like sore throat, headaches, muscle stiffness, and dry skin — all linked to keeping ACs at very low temperatures.
“People often think 16°C or 18°C feels refreshing after the heat outside, but it can be harmful,” Dr. Sinha warns. For those with asthma, sinusitis, or arthritis, low indoor temperatures can aggravate their conditions.
Energy Efficiency Meets Health
This health-conscious approach aligns with earlier recommendations from the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), which had already proposed 24°C as the default setting for air conditioners back in 2020.
Experts agree that maintaining moderate indoor temperatures not only reduces health risks but also eases pressure on the power grid. It’s a win-win for both public health and the environment.
“Extreme cooling isn’t necessary,” Dr. Chatterjee concludes. “A consistent, comfortable range between 22°C and 24°C offers both health protection and energy savings.”
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