How much does an air conditioner cost per hour?
Multiply electrical input in kW by the average compressor-load share and your electricity rate. At $0.18/kWh, a 1.5 kW unit costs $0.27 for a full-power hour or about $0.15 across one scheduled hour at 55% average load.
Hourly comparison
One input rating, three cooling loads.
All figures use $0.18/kWh. Replace this illustrative rate in the calculator when your bill differs.
Mild load
500 W$0.03/hour
1 kW$0.06/hour
1.5 kW$0.09/hour
2 kW$0.13/hour
Typical load
500 W$0.05/hour
1 kW$0.10/hour
1.5 kW$0.15/hour
2 kW$0.20/hour
Hot or humid
500 W$0.07/hour
1 kW$0.14/hour
1.5 kW$0.20/hour
2 kW$0.27/hour
Input check
Do not enter “1.5 ton” as 1.5 kW.
Electrical input = the watts or kW drawn by the equipmentA ton of cooling is a heat-removal capacity. The electricity required to deliver it varies with efficiency, operating conditions and system design.
Stronger evidence
Use seasonal or measured energy when possible.
Manufacturer labelFind rated or maximum electrical input in watts or kW.
Energy labelSeasonal kWh can be stronger than one instantaneous power figure.
Meter or equipment appRepresentative energy across changing weather provides the best household estimate.