Do Window AC Units Use a Lot of Electricity?

Do Window AC Units Use a Lot of Electricity?

Summer heat can be unpleasant, especially if one does not have any air conditioner in your home. Installing a central air conditioning unit is quite an undertaking and can be costly. So, many homeowners go for window AC units instead. But the question is, do window AC units consume a lot of electricity? While, compared to central units, they do not. A window AC unit uses less than ⅓ of the measure of energy it would take to run for the same amount of time. But if one has more than one AC unit, it can speedily add up.

Window AC units make sense in small spaces, but if one has a larger home or want to cool several different areas at once, it is more cost-effective to install central AC. For energy-conscious individuals, a power consumption meter is a handy way. It keeps track of how much energy each appliance in your home is consuming.

Can My Electrical System Handle Air Conditioning?

A window AC unit is more powerful than most household appliances, so your electrical system must be capable of handling the new addition. Small window units can be used with standard outlets. However, large units and higher amperage ratings require a committed outlet. If you do not have one available, you will have to have one installed by a professional electrician. Based on the age and condition of your current electrical system, an electrical panel upgrade or circuit panel update may require. If you are uncertain if your home can handle a window AC unit, contact Parth Groups before installation.

Is Ductless Air Conditioning a Better Option?

A ductless air conditioner, or mini-split unit, is more costly than a window unit but much more powerful. Mini-splits are more energy-efficient than central AC systems. Also, they can cool a much larger area than a window AC unit. A mini-split gets its name from the way the AC unit works. The thermostat and air vent are inside the room it is cooling, while the cooling fans are on the exterior. The mini-split has features like timers and programmable settings.

So, you can set it at a lower temperature at night or when you are not home to save money, much like a central AC unit. Since the cooling portion of the unit is located outside, it has the same sound level as a fan, making it a much quieter option than a conventional window unit. Professional installation is required for a mini-split, although the installation process is less involved and costly than a central air system.

What is the Least Expensive Option?

At the end of the day, a window unit will cost less than a ductless or central AC unit, but it may not be able to give you the kind of cooling you are looking for. If you need more than one window unit, a mini-split will save much more money over the long run, even with its initial installation costs. If you decide to install a central AC system, there are ways to keep the costs down. Consider installing a Mitsubishi heavy duty Window AC which can help monitor your energy usage and alert you to ways to save money. You would be surprised what a difference a few degrees can make on your energy bill.