The time change in Chile is one of the most talked-about annual changes, as it affects the routines of millions of people. It generally takes place twice a year: once to begin winter time and again to return to summer time .
During 2025, winter time is expected to begin on the first weekend of April , when clocks should be set back one hour, while summer time would resume on the first weekend of September , with clocks being set forward one hour. These dates are officially determined by the Home Office and may vary by region.
You can check the updated dates on the official calendar available at CalendarioChile.com , where you will also find information about holidays, anniversaries and important events in Chile.
Why is the clocks changed in Chile?
The purpose of changing the clocks is to make better use of natural light and reduce energy consumption during the months with the most and least sunlight. During summer time, the days are longer, and the aim is to align daily activities with daylight hours.
Meanwhile, winter time aims to adjust the days so that mornings are brighter, something especially relevant for areas in the south of the country where it gets light late.
However, over the years, the measure has generated debate about its impact on health, productivity, and quality of life .
How the time change affects your health and well-being
The human body follows a circadian rhythm , an internal clock that regulates sleep, eating, and energy throughout the day. Altering this rhythm, even by just one hour, can have noticeable effects for the first few days or even weeks.
Among the most common effects of the time change are:
Difficulty falling asleep.
Tiredness or drowsiness during the day.
Changes in appetite or concentration.
Increased irritability or stress.
Children, the elderly, and people with strict routines are particularly affected . International and local studies have linked the time change to a temporary increase in traffic accidents and a reduction in work and school performance .
Tips for adapting to the new schedule without affecting your health
Fortunately, there are several strategies that can help you adjust quickly to the new schedule. Sleep specialists recommend starting adjustments a few days before the change.
Adjust your schedules gradually.
Try going to bed and waking up 15 to 20 minutes earlier or later (depending on the change) for the three days prior. This helps your body adjust naturally.
Take advantage of natural light
Sun exposure in the morning is one of the most effective ways to synchronize your biological clock. Go for a walk or do some outdoor activity early in the morning.
Avoid excessive screen time at night
The blue light from cell phones and televisions interferes with the production of melatonin , the sleep hormone. Try to disconnect at least 30 minutes before going to bed.
Maintain a consistent routine
Although the body needs a few days to adapt, maintaining fixed schedules for sleeping, eating, and working accelerates internal regulation.
Take care of your diet and hydration
Avoid heavy meals and caffeinated drinks in the evening. Opt for light dinners and prioritize fruits, vegetables, and water to maintain stable energy levels.
Impact of the time change on productivity and performance
The time change not only affects sleep, but also work and school efficiency . Several studies have shown that in the first few days after the time change, there is a temporary drop in concentration and decision-making .
In Chile, some companies have opted for flexible schedules during this adjustment week, allowing staggered entry times or longer morning breaks. Schools are also advised to adapt their routines so that children don't struggle too much with the transition.
Regions of Chile with special schedules
Not all of Chile changes its clocks at the same time. For example, Magallanes and Chilean Antarctica have maintained permanent summer time since 2017 due to their unique geographical location. This results in a one-hour difference compared to the rest of the country during winter time.
This measure seeks to maintain greater luminosity during the day, benefiting daily life and local tourism.
You can check out other interesting facts about Chilean time zones and their history on the CalendarioChile.com blog, where the background of this decision is detailed.
Debate on maintaining a fixed schedule in Chile
The debate about eliminating daylight saving time has been ongoing for several years. Some experts advocate for a fixed summer time to take advantage of daylight hours and boost tourism, while others prefer winter time because of its compatibility with biological rhythms.
The Ministry of Energy has conducted assessments of the impact on electricity consumption, but the results are not always conclusive. For now, the time change system remains in effect, although the public and parliamentary debate is reopened every year.
Recommendations for families with children
Children are especially sensitive to changes in sleep routines. To help them adjust:
Avoid stimulating activities before bed.
Keep the bedroom quiet and dark.
Gradually adjust mealtimes and bathing to the new time.
Explain to them in simple words why the time changes, so that they understand the process.
These measures help reduce stress and nighttime awakenings, promoting a smoother transition.
How the time change affects mood
Access to sunlight directly influences the production of serotonin , the hormone associated with well-being. That's why, during winter, when the days are shorter, some people experience increased drowsiness or a lower mood .
Incorporating outdoor physical activities, maintaining social contact, and taking advantage of daylight hours are effective strategies to combat seasonal depression .
Technology and automatic devices
Today, most devices like cell phones, smartwatches, and computers automatically adjust the time according to the time zone. However, some household appliances or vehicles require manual adjustment. Check the settings a few days beforehand to avoid confusion.
Potential benefits of changing the clocks
Despite the initial inconveniences, the time change also offers positive aspects :
Longer daylight hours in the afternoon during the summer.
Promotion of outdoor and recreational activities.
Boosting local trade and tourism.
More efficient use of energy.