Air Conditioner Running Cost Calculator
Estimate how much it costs to run your split-system or ducted air conditioner per hour, per day and over a typical Aussie summer.
Your results
Calculation breakdown
- Energy
- kWh = (watts / 1000) × hours used
- Season cost
- Season cost = daily cost × days used
Worked example
A 2,500 W split system run 6 hours a day for 90 summer days at 32c/kWh costs about $4.80 a day, roughly $432 for the season.
Assumptions
- Uses the rated power consumption, not cooling capacity, which overstates true draw for inverter units.
- Excludes daily supply charge and GST.
- Actual compressor cycling may reduce real-world power draw below the rated figure.
How this calculator works
Enter your air conditioner's power draw (or its rated capacity and efficiency), your hours of use and your electricity rate to estimate running costs. Useful for comparing cooling versus heating modes or deciding whether to upgrade to a more efficient unit.
Frequently asked questions
What input rating should I use?
Use the rated power consumption in kW from the appliance's energy label, not the cooling capacity, as these differ.
Does this include heating mode?
Yes, simply enter the heating mode power draw instead of cooling, since the calculation method is identical.
Why do inverter units cost less to run?
Inverter models modulate compressor speed rather than cycling on and off, often reducing average power draw below the rated maximum, so results here are an estimate.
Actual prices, usage, efficiency and savings vary by provider, equipment, location and behaviour.