đ° Energy Cost Calculator
Calculate how much your HVAC system costs to run daily, monthly, and yearly. Compare SEER ratings to find potential savings.
How to Use This Calculator
Choose whether to enter your unit's wattage directly or select tonnage. Set your average daily usage hours and your electricity rate (check your utility bill for $/kWh). Select how many months per year you use the system. The SEER comparison table shows how different efficiency ratings affect your annual costs.
Understanding Your Results
Your energy costs are broken down by day, month, and year for easy budgeting. The SEER comparison is especially valuable when shopping for a new unit â you can see exactly how much a higher SEER rating saves annually. Remember that actual costs vary based on weather patterns, thermostat settings, and system maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to run an AC per hour?
A typical 3-ton (36,000 BTU) AC unit with 14 SEER costs about $0.38/hr at $0.14/kWh. Higher SEER ratings reduce this cost significantly.
What SEER rating saves the most money?
Every SEER point above the minimum saves about 7% on cooling costs. A 20 SEER unit uses about 30% less energy than a 14 SEER unit. However, the upfront cost is higher.
How many hours per day does an AC run?
In peak summer, AC units typically run 8-16 hours per day. In moderate weather, 4-8 hours is common. Oversized units may run fewer hours but short-cycle, reducing efficiency.
Does a higher wattage unit cost more to run?
Yes, higher wattage means more electricity consumption per hour. However, a properly sized, efficient unit may use less total energy than an undersized unit that runs constantly.