As an expert in energy efficiency, I have been asked countless times about the cost of running an air conditioner. It's a common concern for homeowners and renters alike, especially during the hot summer months when air conditioning is a necessity. The truth is, the cost of running an air conditioner can vary greatly depending on several factors. In this article, I will break down the average electricity consumption of a typical air conditioning unit and provide tips on how to save on the cost of running your air conditioner. Let's start with some basic information.
According to the Energy Professor electric rate verification tool, the average air conditioning unit uses between 1000 and 3000 watts per hour. To put that into perspective, a refrigerator uses between 400 and 800 watts per month. That means your air conditioner is using significantly more energy than other household appliances. One way to reduce the cost of running your air conditioner is by using appliances with an Energy Star rating. These appliances are designed to be more energy-efficient, which can help dramatically reduce the amount of watts you use.
However, there are other cost-effective measures you can take to save on your electric bill. If you've taken the time to understand your bill information and found that you're paying more than you'd like for electricity, have you looked for a cheaper deal? The Energy Professor has a wealth of information on how to save on your utilities, including information on the best deals that could significantly lower your monthly or quarterly electricity bills. The true difference in cost you experience will depend on the efficiency of your air conditioning unit, local electric rates, and your air conditioning usage habits. By including basic information about your air conditioning unit and its use in a few simple formulas, you can calculate the cost of operating the air conditioner. This will give you a better understanding of how much it costs to run your air conditioner and help you make informed decisions about when to use it. For example, if you know that running the air conditioner all day will significantly increase your electric bill, you may choose to only use it during the hottest parts of the day or on days when the temperature is particularly high. This can help you save on the cost of running your air conditioner without sacrificing comfort. Another tip for saving on the cost of air conditioner electricity is to avoid setting the temperature too low.
The average window air conditioner unit operates on between 500 and 1400 watts of electricity, while central air conditioning systems use more than 3500 watts. The lower you set the temperature, the more energy your air conditioner will use, resulting in a higher electric bill. If you need help calculating the operating cost of your window air conditioning unit, consult an air conditioning repair or installation professional for an accurate estimate. They can take into account factors such as the size and efficiency of your unit, as well as local electric rates, to give you a more precise estimate.
