Central AC Running Cost Calculator
Free central ac running cost calculator. All prices are editable estimates, your local rates may differ.
This result is the estimated monthly running cost of the central air conditioner at your electricity rate, with the daily and monthly electricity use shown beside it, so more hours of cooling each day raises the monthly bill.
How to calculate
Formula: monthly kWh = watts ÷ 1,000 × hours per day × days per month. Cost = monthly kWh × rate.
Worked example: 3,500 watts, 8 hours per day, 30 days, rate $0.17 per kWh. Monthly use = 840 kWh, monthly cost = $142.80.
Tips
AC power varies with size and outside temperature. Use the watts from your unit label, and adjust hours for hot and cool months separately for a yearly estimate.
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Frequently asked questions
Are the prices accurate?
Prices are editable estimates. The defaults are typical US figures, and your local price can be higher or lower.