Why is it that when I put 86 on my air conditioner the air is cooler than it is when it's 86 outside?

Question

What does 86 (the highest temperature on my AC) mean? Why is it so different from the weather temperature? Is the measurement different on AC?

Answer 1

I would bet it's because the air conditioner removes a lot of moisture from the air, and moist air tends to make you feel hotter than dry air.

One of the ways you keep it cool is by evaporating moisture off the surface of your skin. Moist air doesn't allow much evaporation while dry air does. If you live in an area with fairly moist heat (like Florida, or jungle conditions) the air will feel quite a bit hotter than it is.

Another reason may be the movement of air. You tend to heat the air around you (that's why people cuddle for warmth). The air conditioner's moving air will rip that warmer air away from your skin, allowing cooler air to take its place. This is the same as wind chill, and it means that moving air will typically feel cooler than non-moving air.

Answer 2

this would depend on the calibration and condition of your air conditioner. to make sure you get the best performance from your air conditioner make sure that its filter is changed every 6-12 months (depending on frequency of use and environment, i.e. dusty). also make sure that the coils are free of dust and debris.

depending on the size and use of the air conditioner regular service (once every 2 to 5 years) can greatly improve efficiency and performance.

most in-the-wall units contain a filter that can be easily removed and replaced (or cleaned in some cases).

to clean the coils get yourself a hose and lightly spray the bit of the unit that is outside with all the "fins" on it. make sure not to blast the heck out of it because some of these are put in openings in your house and can allow water to come inside. also make sure that the unit is turned off when you do this to ensure no "accidents" happen.

doing these few things can help your air conditioner be more officiant.

also, remember that when you set your AC to 86 and it is 86 outside your unit will want to make the temperature in the room slightly cooler to avoid having to turn on / off / on / off when it reaches the tipping point of what you set it at. if your unit was to do this its lifespan would be very short.

stay cool this summer and good luck!

Answer 3

I  think that the temperature feels different because of the humidity being different. if there is a very very big difference one could be measured in fahrenheit and the other one in celsius or other temperature measurements. Else check with your car dealer, They might have set the settings wrong.

Answer 4

Air conditioners blow in air at a fairly constant temperature (say 50 degrees) once things start cooling off and the  the thermostat ON THE AC reaches 86 (as you stated) it shuts off. AC's rarely adjust the actual temperature or the air they blow out.