National Home Inspector Practice Exam 2026 - Free Home Inspector Practice Questions and Study Guide

The typical temperature differential recommended for an air conditioning system during the summer is 15-20 °F. This differential indicates the difference between the indoor air temperature and the temperature of the air being expelled from the AC unit. Maintaining this range ensures efficient operation and optimal comfort levels within the space being cooled.

When the temperature differential falls within this range, the air conditioning system effectively removes humidity and cools the indoor environment without overworking the compressor, which can lead to increased energy consumption and wear on the system. A differential significantly below this guideline might indicate that the system is not achieving its intended cooling capacity, whereas a differential exceeding this range could suggest that the system is working too hard to achieve desired temperatures, potentially leading to energy inefficiency or mechanical issues.

Understanding this temperature differential helps in diagnosing performance issues and ensures that homeowners can enjoy a comfortable indoor climate during hotter months while also promoting the longevity of their cooling systems.