If you’re looking to cut costs on your electric bill this summer, the first thing most renters or homeowners want to know is how much it costs to run an air conditioner. Air conditioning can cost up to $200 if you’re not careful with how much you’re running your system. So, if you want to learn more about air conditioning costs, keep reading.
Here at The Energy Professor, we want to give you the information you need to not only save money on your energy bill but to also become more energy efficient. We hope you find this post helpful! And makes it easier for you to know how much it costs to run an air conditioner. Be sure to also check out our one-of-a-kind energy savings calculator!
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How Much Does it Cost to Run an Air Conditioner?
For the most part, depending on the type of air conditioners you have, the cost of running an air conditioner can range from $14 – $211 a month! For smaller window units you can expect the lower end of the rate and the higher end for larger units. The smaller AC units use around 5,000 BTU (British Thermal Units). At the same time, larger units can use up to 50,000 BTU.
Factors Affecting Costs
Several factors can impact the cost of running an air conditioner. These include:
- Unit capacity: The size of the air conditioner, measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs), affects its power consumption and electricity costs. Larger units with higher BTU ratings will generally consume more energy.
- Price of electricity: The cost of electricity in your area, measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh), directly impacts your air conditioner costs. Higher electricity rates will result in higher operating costs.
- SEER rating: The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) measures an air conditioner’s efficiency. Units with higher SEER ratings are more energy-efficient and can help reduce electricity costs.
- Hours of usage: The longer you run your air conditioner, the more you will pay. Reducing usage during peak hours or when the home is unoccupied can help lower costs.
- Conditions of your home: Factors such as home size, insulation, ductwork, and the age of the air conditioner can also impact your energy costs. Well-insulated homes with efficient ductwork and newer units tend to have lower energy consumption.
Does Running AC Use A Lot of Electricity?
Yes, no matter how energy-efficient your AC unit is, the air conditioner’s energy consumption will still cost you a significant amount of money to run. Air conditioning units typically use 6,720 – 112,028 watts in a month.
To put that in perspective, a refrigerator uses 400 – 800 watts per month. Using an appliance with an Energy Star rating can help dramatically cut the amount of watts you use. But to drastically save on the cost of running AC, taking smaller, more cost-efficient steps will have a greater impact on your electricity bill.
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How Much Does AC Cost Per Hour?
On average, the hourly cost to run ac per hour is between $0.06 and $0.88 per hour. The cooling power of your air conditioner, measured in BTUs, also plays a significant role in determining the hourly cost. This is quite a large gap, but your cost can be determined by many factors. Some of which are the size of your AC and the cost of your electricity! The estimated cost of adjusting your temperature 1 degree up or down is three percent. This means that for every degree you adjust your thermostat, you can expect to see a 3% savings or expenditure on your energy bill.
If running your AC isn’t an option, the easiest way to save on your air conditioner’s electricity cost is to not set your AC at a low temperature. The best temperature to set your air conditioner to save money while still cooling your home is 78 degrees Fahrenheit. If you’re like me and that is still not cold enough, try running your AC only at night when energy rates are lower!
Air Conditioning Cost Per Month
Now that we know how much running AC costs per hour, we can easily calculate the monthly rate. So, how much does an air conditioner cost per month? For this average, we took the lowest and highest energy usage per hour for 9 hours a day, seven days a week for one month. For instance, a window air conditioner with a 5,000 BTU rating can cost around $17.64 per month. A larger 48,000 BTU unit can see prices around $161.28 per month.
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How Much Does it Cost to Run AC All Day?
In the end, it comes down to knowing your daily rate for using the AC. Knowing how much it costs to run your AC all day can help you determine what days to use or not use your AC. For the most part, temperatures are not consistent from one day to the next. This means that you don’t have to run your AC all seven days of the week! So how much does AC cost per day? For this example, let’s use the most common BTU, which is a 10,000 BTU unit. For example, a window ac unit with a 10,000 BTU rating costs about $1.60 per day if run for a full 8-hour day. The cost per hour on this unit is about $0.20 per hour. If it’s being run for a full 8-hour day, that’s $1.60 per day!
Is it OK for an AC Unit to Run All Day?
Yes! HVAC experts have said it’s perfectly fine for your AC to run all day or all night! Some units are even made for prolonged usage. However, a central air conditioner may require significantly more energy to operate compared to a window unit.
It is important to note that it is not healthy for the unit to run constantly. Constantly running the unit can reduce the pressure in the cooling unit. This can cause it to freeze over and can cause the liquid refrigerant to flood back into the compressor and cause damage. This damage can be replaced but will be upwards of $2,000.
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Strategies for Reducing Costs for Air Conditioning
Reducing air conditioner costs requires a combination of strategies that improve energy efficiency, optimize usage, and maintain the unit. By implementing these strategies, you can enjoy a comfortable home environment while keeping your energy bills in check.
Improving Energy Efficiency
Improving energy efficiency is key to reducing air conditioner costs. Here are some strategies to consider:
- Invest in an energy-efficient air conditioner: Look for units with high SEER ratings and Energy Star certification. These units are designed to use less energy while providing effective cooling.
- Regular maintenance: Regularly clean and maintain your air conditioner to ensure it runs efficiently. This includes changing filters, cleaning coils, and checking for any issues that could affect performance.
- Upgrade to a smart thermostat: Smart thermostats can help optimize your air conditioner’s performance and reduce energy consumption. They allow you to set schedules, adjust temperatures remotely, and even learn your preferences to maximize efficiency.
- Use ceiling fans: Ceiling fans can help circulate air and reduce the need for air conditioning. By using fans in conjunction with your air conditioner, you can set the thermostat a few degrees higher and still feel comfortable.
- Improve insulation: Proper insulation can help reduce heat gain in the summer and heat loss in the winter, reducing the load on your air conditioner. This can lead to significant energy savings over time.
By understanding the factors that affect air conditioner costs and implementing strategies to improve energy efficiency, you can reduce your energy bills and save money.
Related post: What is a Good Temperature for AC?
Cost to Run Air Conditioner FAQ
Q: What is the Cost of running an Air Conditioner?
A: The cost to run an air conditioner can run anywhere from $0.06 per hour to $0.88 per hour. The exact price will depend on the type and size of your unit and how much you use it.
Q: How Much Does it Cost to Run a Small AC All Day?
A: On the smaller end of the AC unit sizes, it can cost about $2.51 each day. This is based on the smaller-sized unit running for about 8 hours in one day.
Q: Is It Cheaper to Run AC All Day or Just at Night?
A: For the most part, it is cheaper to run the AC at night. While it will exert more power to cool down your home, the price you are being charged by your energy provider for that power will be less expensive.
Q: What does BTU mean on my air conditioner?
A: BTU stands for British Thermal Unit. This is the measurement of how much energy an air conditioner uses to remove heat from indoor spaces.
Q: How Many Watts Does an Air Conditioner Use in 1 Month?
A: Air conditioning units typically use 6,720 – 112,028 watts in a month. This is based on a unit that runs for 8 hours a day, seven days a week.
Do you Need Cheaper Electricity?
If you’ve taken the time to understand the information on your bill and discovered you’re paying more than you’d like for your electricity, have you looked around for a cheaper deal? The Energy Professor has a wealth of information on ways to save on your utilities, including details of top deals that could significantly reduce your monthly or quarterly electricity bills.
We hope you found this article helpful! If you are looking for ways to increase energy efficiency and sustainability in your home, be sure to take a look at all of the latest renewable energy options in your area. The Energy Professor helps residential and small business owners find qualified energy suppliers in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Texas, Ohio, Maryland, Illinois, and Massachusetts.