How Much Electricity Does an Air Conditioner Use? (With Real Cost Exampsoalrles)
If your power bill jumps in summer, your air conditioner might be the reason. Australians rely on cooling systems to get through hot days, especially in places like Perth, Brisbane, and Adelaide. But air conditioning isn't free comfort—it draws serious power, depending on the type and how often it's running.
So, how much electricity does an air conditioner use? And more importantly, how much is that costing you each day, week, or season?
Let's break it down clearly, using actual figures based on how people use AC in real Aussie homes. Whether you use a split-system, ducted setup, or a portable unit, you'll find tips here to manage usage and avoid shock on your next bill.
How Much Electricity Does an Air Conditioner Use?
The amount of aircon electricity usage depends on its type, size, efficiency, and how you use it. Most systems are rated by their input power in kilowatts (kW) or kilowatt-hours (kWh).
To keep things practical, here's what you can expect from different types of units:
Split-system units
These are the most common household air conditioners in Australia. A standard split-system unit typically uses between 0.8 and 2.5 kWh per hour depending on its cooling capacity.
2.5 kW unit: 0.8–1.0 kWh/hour
5.0 kW unit: 1.5–2.0 kWh/hour
7.0 kW unit: 2.0–2.5 kWh/hour
They're efficient when used in short bursts and in well-insulated spaces. Inverter models also help reduce air conditioner electric usage, since they adjust output based on demand.
Ducted systems
Ducted air conditioning is powerful—and it shows on your bill. These systems cool multiple rooms through ceiling ducts and usually consume between 2.5 and 6.0 kWh per hour.
For a larger house running a ducted system for 8–10 hours on a hot day, using 20–30 kWh isn't unusual. That kind of power consumption of AC can add up quickly with current energy prices.
Portable units
Portable ACs are a popular option for renters or occasional use, but they tend to be less efficient. Most use 1.2 to 2.8 kWh per hour. And because they take longer to cool a room, you might end up using more electricity than you expected.
Plus, many lack thermostats that regulate power usage, so they run continuously until turned off.
That said, not all portable ACs are built the same. If you're after something more efficient, smarter, and better suited for long-term use, there are newer options that solve many of these issues.
One standout is the EcoFlow WAVE 2 Portable Air Conditioner with Heater. It's a next-generation portable unit that addresses many of the common pain points. Designed with dual-mode climate control, it offers both cooling (1500W) and heating (1800W) power, giving you year-round comfort whether you're at home, off-grid, or on the road.
Here's why it's different:
No setup required–ideal for renters or anyone who moves often
Runs on battery or AC power–works seamlessly with EcoFlow portable power stations
Cools small rooms fast–effective in spaces around 10–15 m²
Quiet operation (as low as 44 dB)–for a better night's sleep or workday
App control + Eco mode–manage air conditioner power consumption and settings from your phone
For those who want the convenience of a portable AC without the usual drawbacks, the WAVE 2 strikes a solid balance between flexibility and energy-conscious design.
EcoFlow WAVE 2 Portable Air Conditioner with Heater
Window units
Window-mounted air conditioners are compact and mostly found in older apartments or rentals. Their power use usually falls between 1.0 and 2.4 kWh per hour. Efficiency varies a lot with age—newer models tend to be more power-smart.
Factors Affecting Air Conditioner Electricity Usage
Electricity use isn't just about the machine—it's about how it's used. Here are the biggest factors that influence how much power your AC pulls:
1. Size and cooling capacity
Choosing a unit that's too small for your space means it will run longer and harder. One that's too big will cycle on and off inefficiently. The right fit matters more than most people think.
2. Thermostat settings
Every degree counts. Setting your AC to 25°C instead of 22°C can reduce energy use by up to 15%, according to Energy.gov.au.
3. Outside temperature
On extremely hot days (above 35°C), air conditioners have to work overtime to maintain a cool indoor temperature—especially if insulation is poor.
4. House insulation and orientation
Homes with better insulation, shaded windows, or proper roofing reflect heat better and keep cool air in. North-facing homes with large windows may get hotter, demanding more from your AC.
5. Hours of operation
Running your unit all day or leaving it on while you're out? That adds up. Even standby mode consumes small amounts of energy over time.
6. Age and efficiency rating
Newer models with higher star ratings and inverter technology use less power over longer periods. Old units might still cool well but at a much higher cost.
How Much Does It Cost to Run an Air Conditioner
Let's do a quick example using average 2024 Australian electricity rates and a split-system AC.
Formula:
Power use (kWh) × Cost per kWh = Running cost
Example:
AC usage: 1.5 kWh/hour (typical 5.0 kW split-system)
Electricity rate: 32 cents/kWh
Daily usage: 6 hours
1.5 × $0.32 = $0.48/hour
$0.48 × 6 = $2.88/day
$2.88 × 30 = $86.40/month
Of course, this varies with the temperature, time of year, and your electricity plan—but it gives you a ballpark figure to work from.
Here's a breakdown of typical costs for common AC types:
AC Type | Power Use (kWh/hr) | Hourly Cost ($) | Monthly Cost (6 hrs/day) |
Split-system | 1.0 – 2.0 | $0.32 – $0.64 | $57 – $115 |
Ducted system | 2.5 – 6.0 | $0.80 – $1.92 | $144 – $345 |
Portable unit | 1.2 – 2.8 | $0.38 – $0.90 | $68 – $162 |
Window unit | 1.0 – 2.4 | $0.32 – $0.77 | $57 – $138 |
Note: Based on average electricity cost of \$0.32/kWh and 6 hours daily usage.
As you can see, even modest usage can add up across a month—especially during peak summer.
Tips to Reduce Air Conditioning Energy Costs
There's no need to sweat through summer to save electricity. A few simple adjustments can cut your cooling costs without much effort:
Set it higher: Keep your thermostat at 24–26°C for comfort and efficiency.
Close doors and windows: Prevent cool air from escaping.
Use fans in combo: Ceiling or pedestal fans help circulate air and reduce how hard the AC has to work.
Install curtains or blinds: Block direct sunlight to reduce indoor heat.
Service your unit: Clean filters every month and have a professional service once a year.
Use Eco mode: Many models have energy-saving modes—use them.
Install solar or a backup power system: At EcoFlow, we've seen more customers pair solar setups with a portable power station to offset daytime usage and stay cool even off-grid.
If you're looking for a solid backup to handle the power of aircon and other essentials during summer, the EcoFlow DELTA 3 Plus Portable Power Station delivers serious performance. It offers a 4kWh capacity (expandable to 12kWh) and a 2400W AC output—enough to run a 5kW split-system air conditioner for several hours.
It supports up to 15 devices at once, recharges to 80% in under 1.5 hours via AC, and works seamlessly with solar panels for sustainable energy use. With built-in wheels, remote app control, and low-noise operation, it's a dependable choice for off-grid cooling or blackout protection when managing rising electricity demands.
These small changes can easily knock 10–30% off your summer cooling bill.
Conclusion
Air conditioning can be a big contributor to your electricity bill, but it doesn't have to blow your budget. Knowing how much electricity your air conditioner uses—and what affects that use—puts you in control. And when you pair smarter usage habits with the right tech (like solar or portable energy backup), comfort and cost can finally work together.
Ready to cut cooling costs and stay powered through summer? Explore EcoFlow's range of portable cooling and backup power solutions.
FAQs
How much does it cost to run AC for 1 hour?
That depends on the type of unit and your electricity rate. For a standard split-system air conditioner using 1.5 kWh per hour, and an electricity rate of 32 cents per kWh, it would cost about 48 cents per hour. Ducted units can cost over \$1.50 an hour to run.
Does air conditioning use a lot of electricity?
It can—especially if the system is large, old, or running for long periods. Ducted systems use the most, while split-systems are more efficient. How much it uses also depends on settings, room size, and insulation. Smart usage can lower the impact significantly.
How much electricity does an air conditioner use in Australia?
In Australia, a typical split-system unit uses 0.8 to 2.5 kWh per hour, depending on the size and efficiency. With average power costs around 30–35 cents per kWh, this can mean 25 to 80 cents per hour in running costs. Ducted and portable systems use more.