Portable air conditioners provide a convenient way to cool down a room, but how much do they really cost to run? Are they energy guzzlers, or can they be an efficient cooling option?
Let’s break down the costs and how you can minimize them.
How Much Does It Cost to Run a Portable Air Conditioner?
The cost to run a portable AC depends on factors like wattage, usage time, and electricity rates. Based on a 2024 study of 56 popular models, here’s what you can expect:
- $0.11 – $0.22 per hour – depending on the unit.
- $1.41 per day – based on 8 hours of use at the average cost.
- $42.32 per month – if used 8 hours per day for 30 days.
| Category | Hourly Cost | Daily Cost (8 Hrs of Use daily) | Monthly Cost (8 Hrs Daily for 30 Days) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Average |
$0.18 |
$1.41 |
$42.32 |
|
Most common |
$0.19 |
$1.50 |
$45.00 |
|
Highest |
$0.22 |
$1.78 |
$53.28 |
|
Lowest |
$0.11 |
$0.90 |
$27.14 |
How Does This Compare to Other Appliances?
Running a portable AC for 1 hour costs about $0.18 on average, which is equivalent to:
- Running a TV for 20+ hours
- Keeping a freezer on for 30 hours
- Running a box fan for over 16 hours
Compared to other appliances, portable ACs are expensive to run, especially for extended periods.
Why Are Portable ACs Expensive to Run?
High Power Consumption
Portable ACs require significant energy to cool a space, with wattage ranging from 750W to over 2,000W. Higher wattage means higher electricity costs.
Continuous Usage
Unlike central ACs, which cool an entire home efficiently, portable ACs must work harder to maintain a cool temperature in a single room.
Cooling Efficiency
Some models consume more power than they actually convert into cooling, leading to wasted energy. Look for high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER & CEER) when choosing a unit.
How to Reduce the Cost of Running a Portable AC
If you’re worried about running costs, there are ways to minimize expenses while keeping your space cool.
1. Choose an Energy-Efficient Model
Look for units with a high EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio). The most efficient models cost only $0.15 per hour, which adds up to big savings over time.
2. Optimize Placement
Position your AC in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight, and use insulated curtains or weather stripping to prevent heat from entering the room.
3. Use Smart Cooling Strategies
- Run the AC only when needed instead of all day.
- Use a programmable timer to cool the space before bedtime.
- Pair with a fan to circulate cool air more efficiently.
4. Keep Your AC Maintained
- Clean air filters regularly to ensure efficient airflow.
- Check for leaks in the exhaust hose, which can reduce performance.
- Avoid placing the AC on an unstable surface, which can cause overheating.
Our top picks for energy efficient single hose AC Units
Black+Decker BPACT10WT
The Black+Decker is a 10,000 BTU portable air conditioner designed for cooling rooms up to 250 sq. ft.
Features included
- Remote Control
- Quiet
- Energy Efficent
- Dehumidifier
- Fan Function
Features not included
- App
DeLonghi Portable Air Conditioner 14,000 BTU
The DeLonghi Portable Air Conditioner is a 14,000 BTU portable air conditioner designed for cooling rooms up to 700 sq. ft.
Features included
- Remote Control
- Quiet
- Dehumidifier
- Single Hose AC
- Fan Function
Features not included
- App
Are portable AC's expensive to run?
Portable air conditioners offer flexibility but come at a price.
With an average cost of $0.18 per hour, they can become expensive over time. However, by choosing an energy-efficient model, optimizing usage, and maintaining the unit properly, you can reduce running costs and improve cooling efficiency.
If you’re looking for the cheapest portable ACs to run, check out low-wattage models or consider alternative cooling methods for long-term savings.
