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Why Setting Your Thermostat Too Low Can Hurt Your HVAC System

Apr 5, 2025

When temperatures rise, it’s tempting to set your thermostat as low as possible to get cool air fast. However, setting your thermostat too low can actually cause more harm than good. If you’ve been searching for “AC not blowing cold air,” “fix central AC,” or “emergency air conditioner repair,” it might be due to how your system is being used. Here’s what you need to know.

1. Overworking Your HVAC System

Cranking your thermostat down to extremely low settings forces your system to run longer and harder than necessary, leading to:

  • Increased wear and tear on components

  • Higher risk of breakdowns

  • Shorter system lifespan

2. Minimal Cooling Gains

Most HVAC systems cool at a steady rate, not faster at lower settings. Setting your thermostat to 60°F doesn’t cool your home quicker than setting it to 72°F—it just runs longer and wastes energy.

3. Higher Energy Bills

Running your system nonstop to reach very low temperatures can result in spiked utility bills. A small change in thermostat setting can increase energy usage significantly.

4. Potential for Frozen Coils

Extremely low settings can cause the evaporator coil to freeze, especially if airflow is already restricted. Frozen coils reduce efficiency and can lead to system shutdowns and emergency HVAC repairs.

5. Humidity Imbalance

Your AC also removes humidity from the air. Overcooling can make your home feel clammy or damp, especially if the system cycles off before dehumidification is complete.

6. Better Alternatives

  • Set your thermostat to a moderate, efficient temperature—around 72°F to 75°F in the summer.
  • Use a programmable or smart thermostat to maintain consistent, energy-efficient settings.

  • Supplement with ceiling fans to help circulate cool air.

Trust Jack Frost Heating and Air Conditioning for Expert HVAC Advice

At Jack Frost Heating and Air Conditioning, we help customers maximize comfort while minimizing wear and energy costs. If you suspect your system is overworking or not cooling efficiently, we can help.

📞 Call us at 865-573-5777 or visit www.jackfrostheatingandair.com to schedule a consultation or HVAC tune-up today!