What’s the cost?
How much does it cost to run air conditioning? We take a look and compare the results…
With the rise in energy prices we’re all facing, knowing how much your potential air conditioning is going to cost to run is probably your first and most important question. With this in mind we’re going to have a look into air conditioning running costs, compared to the costs of running a air source heat pump.
Installing an air conditioner is undoubtedly a significant expense, and it’s important to carefully consider the ongoing costs as well. On this page, we’re going to run through the aspects to help you understand the factors that influence the cost of running an air conditioner in your home / business premises.
Example running costs of an air conditioner
As you may appreciate – knowing exactly the cost to you of running an air conditioning unit in Retford is a little difficult – as there are other factors involved (which we’ll cover further down the page. However, the table below is designed to give you a rough idea and illustrate the typical hourly costs per air con unit size.
Unit size | Hourly cost |
2kw | 7p |
2.5kw | 8p |
3.5kw | 10p |
5kw | 16p |
7kw | 23p |
10kw | 38p |
Factors that will affect running costs
The running costs of an air conditioner depend on its type and output capacity (not physical size). It’s generally understood that the longer an air conditioner runs, the higher the electricity bills will be. Fortunately, there are straightforward measures you can take to ensure your air conditioner operates as efficiently as possible. We’ve also put together some frequently asked air con running costs questions and answers here that you may find very useful…
Insulation really helps!
Most people think of insulation as a way to retain heat during winter, but it also works remarkably well at keeping summer heat out.
If your home is well-insulated, your air conditioner won’t need to run continuously or work as hard to maintain a comfortable temperature.
Whether you’re cooling or heating your home, good insulation is a smart financial investment.
Worry not… Judge Climate Solutions team of air conditioning experts are on hand to help and advise on insulation and solutions that best fit your requirements and air conditioning units – so just ask.
Regular Servicing
Regular servicing of your air conditioning system enhances its efficiency, extends its lifespan, lowers running costs, and helps keep your energy bills down. Typically, a domestic unit requires servicing once a year, while a commercial system may need attention twice a year.
While you can clean filters and fans yourself in some cases, it’s advisable to hire a professional for a comprehensive service. A skilled technician can identify early signs of faulty components and address them before they lead to costly emergency breakdowns.
Servicing & Maintenance for your Air Conditioning. Judge Climate Solutions provide full and regular air conditioning servicing and maintenance contracts to help you keep up and running as efficiently as possible.
Important to consider
Avoid the temptation to install the cheapest air conditioner. While it might save you money upfront, these units are often less efficient and can end up costing you much more in the long run due to higher operating expenses.
Choose the right unit and size for your needs. To keep running costs low, it’s important to select the right unit size for your space. A unit that’s too small won’t effectively heat or cool the room, while one that’s too large will be inefficient, expensive to operate, and costly to maintain. Ensure you choose the right air conditioner for your needs! It may seem obvious, but with so many heating and cooling options available, selecting the best one is crucial.
We’re here to help
From single wall mounted unit to complex multi split systems, our expert AC installers will find the perfect energy efficient solution for your individual needs.
Air Conditioning Vs Air Source Heat Pump
Which one should you choose?
Both heat pumps and air conditioners have significantly advanced in energy efficiency and technology, providing enhanced comfort and a reduced environmental impact. Choosing either system will improve your home’s overall comfort while aligning with your budget and energy efficiency objectives. To help you decide which is best for you, let’s examine their advantages, disadvantages, installation costs, and ongoing expenses.
Installation Cost | £904 – £1,302 (wall-mounted unit) | £10,000 – £18,000 |
Running Costs | £0.10 – £0.25 per hour | £0.07 – £0.09 per kWh |
Efficiency | Less efficient in heating mode | Highly efficient (300-400% efficiency in heating mode) |
Lifespan | 10-15 years | 15-25 years |
Environmental Impact | Higher carbon footprint due to electricity use | Lower carbon footprint, especially if powered by renewables |
Maintenance Requirements | Regular filter cleaning, annual servicing recommended | Regular servicing, more maintenance due to complex system |
Cooling & Heating Capability | Primarily cooling, some units offer heating | Provides both heating and cooling effectively |
Noise Levels | Typically quiet, but depends on the model | Generally quieter than air conditioning units |