We get it—weather in Iowa City can be unpredictable. One day it’s sweatshirt weather in the morning, and by afternoon, you’re peeling off layers and wishing for some cool air. It might be tempting to flip on the air conditioning for relief—but if the temperature outside is below 60°F, it’s best to hold off.
Running your air conditioner below 60 degrees might seem harmless, but it can actually lead to some serious issues—both for your unit and your comfort. At Cambridge Place Apartments, we want our residents to enjoy worry-free living, so here’s what you should know.
What to Know About Running Your Air Conditioner Below 60 Degrees
Most people don’t realize that air conditioners are designed to function in warmer outdoor temperatures. Once it drops below 60°F outside, the components—especially the compressor and refrigerant—start behaving differently. The oil inside the unit can thicken, and refrigerant pressure can dip too low, which may cause the system to freeze up or malfunction.
Some A/C units even have a built-in safeguard that prevents them from running in cooler temps to avoid these problems.
It Could Lead to Unnecessary Repairs
Air conditioning units are a major appliance, and repairs can be costly—especially if they stem from usage outside of recommended temperature ranges. Running your air conditioner below 60 degrees can wear down internal parts and lead to issues like frozen coils, short cycling, or full system failure.
That’s not something you want to deal with once Iowa City’s hot summer days arrive.
It Probably Won’t Cool Your Apartment Anyway
Even if your A/C turns on, it likely won’t cool the way you expect it to. The system may circulate air, but the cooling process won’t function properly. That means you’re using electricity and putting stress on the unit… without much benefit.
Instead of creating comfort, you could end up with more frustration—and possibly a higher utility bill.
Try These Easy Cooling Alternatives Instead
Sometimes, your apartment just feels a little stuffy, especially after cooking or when the sun’s been shining in all day. Luckily, there are a few easy, renter-friendly ways to cool off without running the A/C:
- Crack open a window to let in some crisp outdoor air.
- Use a fan to circulate air and create a breeze.
- Close blinds or curtains in the afternoon to block out heat.
These simple tricks are surprisingly effective—and much gentler on your air conditioner.
We’re Here to Help Keep You Comfortable
One of the great things about living at Cambridge Place is that you don’t have to worry about home maintenance. Our team is always happy to answer questions and help with anything from thermostat issues to full system checks. We also offer 24-hour emergency maintenance if you need it.
Whether you’re new to apartment living in Iowa City or have called Cambridge Place home for years, we’re here to make your life easier.
Final Thoughts
Running your air conditioner below 60 degrees can cause more problems than it solves. Give your A/C a break during cooler days, and use simple tricks to keep your apartment feeling just right. If you ever need help with your system or have questions about what’s safe to run and when—just reach out.
For more helpful tips on Iowa City apartment rentals, seasonal maintenance, and everyday apartment life, check out our other blog posts!