To measure your air conditioner's temperature effectively, you need to measure the supply air temperature. Here's how:
Steps to Measure AC Temperature
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Locate the Supply Air Duct: Find the air vent closest to your indoor AC unit. This is where the cooled air is being supplied into the room.
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Prepare Your Thermometer: Use a thermometer for this purpose. Even a refrigerator thermometer can work.
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Position the Thermometer: Tape the thermometer just inside the supply air duct. Make sure the thermometer is positioned where it measures the airflow directly.
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Run the AC: Turn on your air conditioning system and let it run for approximately ten minutes. This will allow the temperature to stabilize.
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Record the Temperature: After ten minutes, check the thermometer and record the temperature reading. This is your supply air temperature.
What This Measurement Tells You:
By comparing the supply air temperature with the return air temperature (the temperature of the air being drawn into the AC unit), you can determine the cooling efficiency of your AC system. A typical AC unit should cool the air by 15-20 degrees Fahrenheit. If the difference is significantly less, it might indicate a problem with your AC unit.