Singapore's air-conditioning habits are getting a rethink. On 16 May 2025, the Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment (MSE) and the Singapore Green Building Council (SGBC), supported by NEA and BCA, officially launched Go25: a national movement encouraging households and businesses to set indoor aircons to 25°C or above. Buildings account for over 20% of Singapore's carbon emissions, and air-conditioning is one of the largest contributors.
The scepticism is understandable. Most Singaporean households run at 21 – 23°C, and 25°C in 32°C outdoor heat sounds uncomfortable. The science tells a different story.
Your aircon compressor works harder, and runs longer, the lower the temperature target. Every degree drop pushes the system to maintain a greater gap between indoor and outdoor temperatures. Singapore's year-round 31 – 34°C conditions mean aircons run almost continuously, so that gap carries real weight.
At 25°C, the compressor cycles off more regularly once the target is reached. At 22°C, it rarely gets the chance. Research by Ngee Ann Polytechnic's Centre for Environmental Sustainability found up to 12% energy savings per degree raised from 23°C to 25°C in offices, with no reported increase in occupant discomfort.
Comfort research supports a 24 – 26°C range as optimal for tropical climates, particularly when humidity sits at 50 – 60% relative humidity. Moving air from a fan enhances evaporative cooling from the skin, making 25°C feel several degrees cooler in practice.
Each degree you raise the thermostat cuts electricity consumption by up to 12%, according to Ngee Ann Polytechnic's Centre for Environmental Sustainability. For a household currently spending $150/month on aircon electricity at 23°C, switching to 25°C could save $15 – 30/month, totalling $180 – 360 annually. Those are real dollars saved without running the unit any less.
The mechanism is straightforward. At 25°C, the compressor hits its target and cycles off more frequently. At 21 – 22°C, it runs nearly non-stop trying to maintain an aggressive target. Fewer cycles under load mean less mechanical wear, fewer breakdowns, and a longer unit lifespan.
Go25 is about cooling your home efficiently: reducing aircon electricity consumption, easing compressor workload, and extending your unit's lifespan. Fans, humidity control, and smart scheduling close the comfort gap, making 25°C a workable setting for most Singapore households.
Your aircon's condition is what makes or breaks the equation. A poorly maintained unit struggles at any temperature. Speak to our aircon specialist to assess your unit, or explore our aircon servicing package to keep everything running at its best year-round.
