RightAir Solutions is a company that specialises in commercial air conditioning services.
Yes, air conditioning units can use a substantial amount of electricity depending on the type of system, its energy efficiency rating, the way it is used, and the temperature of the surrounding environment. In the UK, where summers vary in intensity, the cost of running an air conditioner can range from 28 pence to over £1.40 per hour. The good news is that with the right setup and simple energy-saving steps, you can stay comfortable without spending more than necessary.
Air conditioning systems consume electricity through key components such as the compressor, fan motor, expansion valve, and control unit. The amount of energy used is determined by several technical and environmental factors that directly affect performance.
Common residential and commercial systems include split units, portable air conditioners, central ducted systems, and window-mounted units. Each has a different energy profile depending on the design and application.
Measured in kilowatts or British Thermal Units, the cooling capacity reflects how much heat the system can remove from an indoor space. Higher capacity units usually require more electrical power to run, especially in large rooms or buildings.
Running the air conditioner for longer hours, especially during warmer months or without proper thermostat control, increases the total kilowatt-hour consumption.
Modern systems display a Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio or Energy Efficiency Ratio. These values help estimate how much cooling is produced per unit of electricity consumed. A higher number indicates a more efficient system.
Lower indoor temperature settings require the system to work harder. On particularly hot days, even energy-efficient units will draw more power as they maintain the desired indoor climate.
Pro Tip: Setting your thermostat between 21 and 23 degrees Celsius is the most efficient range for cooling comfort without increasing your electricity bill unnecessarily.
Air Conditioner Type | Average Power Usage (Watts) | Estimated Electricity Use per Hour (kWh) | Approximate Cost per Hour (£) |
Window Unit | 1000 | 1.0 | 0.28 |
Split System | 2500 | 2.5 | 0.70 |
Portable Unit | 3000 | 3.0 | 0.84 |
Central HVAC | 3500 to 5000 | 3.5 to 5.0 | 0.98 to 1.40 |
This comparison is based on the UK’s average domestic electricity rate of £0.28 per kilowatt-hour. Actual usage depends on insulation, room size, and operational settings.
Rooms with thin walls, unsealed doors, or single-glazed windows allow cooled air to escape. This causes the air conditioner to run longer to maintain a steady temperature.
During heatwaves, systems work at their maximum capacity. This pushes compressors and fans to operate continuously, drawing higher electrical loads.
Air conditioning units that are too small will run non-stop, while oversized systems may cycle on and off too frequently. Both scenarios lead to inefficient operation and higher energy bills.
Older models operate in an on-off pattern without adjusting to actual demand. This results in sudden power spikes and more frequent cycling, both of which increase total energy use.
Setting the thermostat below 20 degrees Celsius can significantly raise electricity use. A comfortable 21 to 23 degrees is typically efficient for most homes.
Pro Tip: If your air conditioning system is more than ten years old and not inverter-based, upgrading could save you up to 40 percent on cooling costs annually.
Yes, inverter-driven air conditioners are designed to continuously regulate compressor speed, adjusting cooling output based on room temperature. This leads to smoother operation, lower energy peaks, and a more consistent climate indoors. Unlike non-inverter systems that shut off once the set temperature is reached, inverter units maintain steady output without sudden surges. Over time, this approach uses less electricity and helps avoid temperature fluctuations.
If you’re unsure whether your system is inverter-based, contact RightAir Solutions for a system check or quote on upgrading to an energy-saving model. Reach out now for expert Maintenance Tips.
WiFi-enabled thermostats help you programme daily cooling schedules, adjust temperature remotely, and monitor usage. Many homeowners see reduced bills after installation.
Clean filters, unobstructed vents, and regular servicing can make a noticeable difference in system efficiency. A well-maintained system uses less electricity.
Use blinds to block direct sunlight during the day. Run the air conditioner during cooler parts of the day when possible, especially if you are on a time-of-use tariff.
Using a ceiling fan alongside your AC helps circulate air more evenly. This allows you to set the thermostat slightly higher without losing comfort.
Most modern units come with energy-saving modes that reduce compressor output when full cooling is not needed. This is ideal during nighttime hours.
For more energy-saving tips, you can read our AC maintenance and usage guide on the RightAir Solutions advice hub.
Compact split systems with inverter compressors and high SEER ratings are ideal. They offer targeted cooling without overloading your circuits.
Opt for units using R290 refrigerant. These models tend to be quieter, more environmentally conscious, and better for spot cooling in rental spaces.
For commercial use, ducted systems with zoning capabilities and occupancy sensors allow cooling to be applied only where and when needed. This reduces unnecessary energy waste.
You can compare systems by use case on our AC installation comparison page.
Commercial air conditioning systems often run for longer hours and serve larger spaces, so they naturally use more electricity. Depending on the size and design, consumption can account for up to 40 percent of a business’s total summer electricity bill. Choosing the right system size and layout is important. A poorly sized or inefficient unit can lead to high operating costs over time.
Larger systems benefit from energy audits. These can highlight wasted energy, suggest upgrades, and help businesses adopt smart zoning and timed controls that reduce unnecessary cooling.
At RightAir Solutions, we guide homeowners through system selection, installation, and optimisation to ensure cost savings and performance all year round.
A family in Central London upgraded from an older non-inverter system to a modern inverter split unit. Alongside this, they improved loft insulation and used smart thermostats to schedule cooling only when necessary. The result was a drop in their average summer aircon costs from £180 to £108 per month. The new setup gave them better temperature control and significant energy savings over the season.
Yes. Inverter systems are ideal for solar use, especially in combination with battery storage. When installed alongside solar panels, daytime cooling demand can be met almost entirely by solar generation. This means running your aircon may cost little to nothing during sunny periods.
Installing a solar-compatible air conditioning system can significantly reduce your reliance on the grid. RightAir Solutions can help you explore system compatibility, inverter-ready models, and the installation of solar assisted cooling.
Air conditioning does use a meaningful amount of electricity, but the right decisions can make a big difference. Matching the right system to your space, using efficient settings, and maintaining the unit properly will all reduce running costs. For UK homes and businesses, inverter technology, smart controls, and a bit of planning can lead to reliable comfort without high bills.
RightAir Solutions is here to help you choose, install, and maintain a system that balances comfort with cost-efficiency.
How much electricity does an air conditioner use per hour? Usage ranges from 1.0 to 5.0 kilowatt-hours depending on the system type, settings, and size of the space being cooled.
Is it worth switching to an inverter air conditioner? Yes. Inverter systems regulate their output and use less energy overall, resulting in lower electricity bills.
What’s the most efficient temperature to run an AC in the UK? Setting the thermostat between 21 and 23 degrees Celsius is usually the most efficient for comfort and energy use.
Do portable air conditioners use more electricity than wall-mounted ones? Yes, most portable models are less efficient and lack inverter controls, which means they typically consume more energy.
Can I use air conditioning with solar panels in the UK? Yes. Many modern systems are compatible with solar and can be run during the day when your panels are generating power.
To speak with a specialist for Air Conditioning Advice or request a personalised quote, visit RightAir Solutions contact page.
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