Free electricity calculator
Air conditioner running cost calculator
Estimate the electricity cost of a portable air conditioner from its rated electrical input and your own tariff. This calculator uses the same tested running-cost logic as the dehumidifier tool.
Formula
How the calculation works
1. Convert watts to kW
Watts ÷ 1,000
2. Calculate energy
kW × hours used
3. Calculate cost
kWh × unit rate
Example: a 1,000W unit running for five hours at £0.25/kWh uses 5kWh and costs £1.25 for that day before any compressor cycling.
Common questions
Air conditioner electricity FAQs
How do I find an air conditioner’s wattage?
Use the rated cooling input on the energy label, manual or manufacturer specification page. Cooling output in kW is not the same as the electrical input in kW, so do not substitute the BTU conversion figure.
Will it draw its rated power continuously?
Not always. A thermostat can cycle a fixed-speed compressor on and off, while an inverter model can vary its input. Exhaust installation, room heat gains and the selected temperature also affect real consumption.
What does the summer estimate mean?
It is twelve weeks at the daily and weekly schedule entered above. It is a comparison period, not a prediction of UK weather or how often you will need cooling.
Does this include the standing charge?
No. The standing charge applies independently of this appliance, so the calculation only uses the electricity unit rate.
Continue researching