Updated June 25, 2026
Air Conditioner Running Cost Calculator
Find the hourly, daily, and monthly electricity cost of a window, portable, mini-split, or central air conditioner.
Live calculator
Calculate your actual running cost
Running this air conditioner for 8 hours a day, 7 days a week uses about 364.0 kWh each month.
Quick answer
How much does an air conditioner cost to run?
A 1,500 W air conditioner used for 8 hours a day, 7 days a week, consumes about 364.0 kWh per month. At $0.30 per kWh, that is approximately $109.20 per month. Replace these example figures with the wattage and electricity rate from your appliance and bill.
What changes the real running cost?
Air-conditioner input power varies with cooling capacity, efficiency, outdoor temperature, and thermostat cycling. Use the electrical input watts, not the cooling-output rating.
If the compressor cycles off regularly, use fewer effective hours than the total time the unit is switched on.
Example air conditioner costs
These examples use 1,500 W for 8 hours a day and 7 days per week.
| Electricity rate | Per hour | Per month | Per year |
|---|---|---|---|
| $0.15 / kWh | $0.22 | $54.60 | $655.20 |
| $0.25 / kWh | $0.38 | $91.00 | $1092.00 |
| $0.35 / kWh | $0.52 | $127.40 | $1528.80 |
Ways to reduce the cost
Start with changes that reduce active runtime without compromising safety or the job the appliance needs to do.
- Set the thermostat a little higher.
- Clean filters and keep vents clear.
- Shade sun-facing windows during the hottest hours.
Estimate only. Actual consumption varies by model, setting, condition, temperature, duty cycle, and tariff. Use a plug-in meter or energy-label figure when accuracy matters.