Air Conditioner Running Cost Calculator
Calculate the cost to run window, portable, and central air conditioners using electrical wattage or cooling capacity (BTU/hr) and SEER energy efficiency ratings.
AC Capacity & Efficiency Rating
Air Conditioning Operating Cost Formula
Electrical Input (Watts) = Cooling Capacity (BTU/h) ÷ SEER | Monthly Cost = (Watts × Daily Hours × 30 ÷ 1,000) × Rate per kWh- Cooling Capacity (BTU/h): Nominal thermal heat extraction capacity (12,000 BTU/h = 1 Ton of cooling).
- SEER Rating: Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (BTU per Watt-hour). Higher SEER lowers electrical input power.
- Operating Hours: Active compressor run hours per day during the summer cooling season.
Step-by-Step Worked Example
Calculation Steps:
How to Use This Calculator
Assumptions & Limitations
- SEER represents seasonal average efficiency; actual instantaneous EER may vary with extreme outdoor ambient temperatures.
- Central AC blower motor energy is incorporated in standardized SEER measurements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between BTU cooling capacity and electrical wattage?
BTU/h measures the rate of heat removed from your home, while electrical Watts measure the power drawn from the grid to operate the compressor and fan. A 24,000 BTU/h AC with a 16 SEER rating only draws about 1,500 Watts of electrical power.
How much money does upgrading from 10 SEER to 16 SEER save?
Upgrading from an older 10 SEER system to a modern 16 SEER air conditioner reduces electrical consumption by approximately 37.5%, saving $100 to $250+ each summer cooling season.
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