Cost of Running Aircon in the UK [2025 Update]

If you intend to install or use air conditioning, one of the first enquiries you'll have is how much it costs to run it. With growing energy rates in the UK, understanding the hourly, daily, and monthly costs of running an air conditioner is critical.

Costs vary depending on the system type (portable or split), consumption habits, room size, and energy efficiency. This article will cover typical operating costs, things that might impact your energy bill, and useful tips for cutting air conditioning expenses without giving up comfort. Keep your cool while keeping your costs down.

How Much Does Air Conditioning Cost To Run in the UK?

Suppose you're considering purchasing an air conditioner. In that case, one of the most common queries is, "How much does an air conditioner cost to run per hour in the UK?" Many UK residents desire to stay cool without paying excessive air conditioning expenditures. The answer depends on whether you pick a portable or split (fixed) air conditioner, as well as how effectively you use it.

Average Hourly Cost of Running an Air Conditioner in the UK

The cost of running an air conditioner depends on how much power it needs (in watts) and the current UK energy tariff, which is 24.5p per kWh from July to September 2025. Here is a full list of the most popular kinds of air conditioners, how much power they generally consume, and how much it costs to operate them for an hour:

(Data Source: Heatable)

How Much Does It Cost to Run an AC for a single room in the UK?

Fully installed air conditioning systems feature an outside fan unit linked to an inside fan unit by refrigerant pipes, and they come in a variety of designs. The simplest completely fitted air conditioning systems are known as room air conditioners (RAC), which consist of one exterior fan unit and one inside unit.

These systems are typically for single rooms, and the cost of air conditioning will be determined by the materials used and the installation process. An improvement on the RAC unit is having one outside fan unit and two interior units. Both indoor units service a single room and are either turned on or off. Indoor units are typically not operated independently and can only be set to cool or heat.

The actual specifications of indoor units may often change across manufacturers, thus it is well worth collecting multiple quotations from different companies. The cost of air conditioning for a single room in the UK can be broken down into two main parts: the initial installation cost and the ongoing running costs. For a typical air conditioning unit for a single room, the running cost is often between 20p and 70p per hour.

How Much Does It Cost to Run an AC for a Whole House in the UK?

The cost to run air conditioning for a whole house in the UK is a significant expense that varies widely depending on several factors. It's much more complex than a single-room unit because it involves a larger, more powerful system and affects your entire home's energy consumption.

The cost to run a whole-house system can range from 25p to £1.25 per hour or more, depending on the system's power output and your electricity tariff. A typical ducted system for an average-sized home might have a power consumption of 3.5 kW to 5 kW, which can be expensive to run continuously.

During a typical UK summer (e.g., running the AC for 6-8 hours a day), a whole-house system could add £100 to £300 or more to your monthly electricity bill. This is a considerable addition to the average UK household's energy expenses.

How to Work Out The Cost of Running an Air Conditioner?

The cost of operating an air conditioning unit varies exponentially with the degree of output (wattage) and the size of the space. Before installing air conditioning in your house, you should seek a professional for an air conditioning quotation to get an exact estimate of how much it will cost.

Example Running Costs of an Air Conditioner: As you would expect, determining the actual cost of running an air conditioning unit in Retford is tricky because there are other elements to consider (which we'll discuss later down the page). However, the chart below is intended to provide a general estimate and indicate the usual hourly expenditures per air conditioning unit size.

(Data Source: Judge Elec)

Portable vs Split AC Costs

Portable Air Conditioners Example Running Cost Calculation:

A sample portable AC consumes 780W (0.78 kWh).

Cost per hour = 0.78 kWh x 27.03p/kWh = 21p.

To calculate the cost for 8 hours each day, multiply 21p by 8 to get £1.68.

Monthly cost (30 days): £1.68 multiplied by 30 is £50.60.

Another sample portable AC consumes 990W (0.99 kWh).

Cost per hour = 0.99 kWh multiplied by 27.03p equals 27p.

8 hours each day = £2.14 | Monthly: £64.22

Split (Fixed) Air Conditioners Example Running Cost Calculation:

A sample split AC consumes around 800W (0.8 kWh).

The cost per hour is 22p, calculated by multiplying 0.8 by 27.03p.

8 hours each day = £1.73 | Monthly = £52.80.

This is based on the UK's current normal energy rate (27.03p/kWh) from April 1 to June 30, 2025.

The Cost of Running an Air Conditioner in the UK

There are various benefits to installing an air conditioning system in the UK. While we may not have consistently hot days throughout the year, we may still benefit from temperature control in certain spaces, increased air quality, and better job performance. More and more people are choosing to install air conditioning equipment in their homes and workplaces.

Initial Costs

When you initially start investigating air conditioning devices, you must consider the cost of the machine itself as well as the installation expenses.

While these are one-time payments, you should evaluate the financial implications before deciding whether this is the best option for you. Depending on the sort of unit you pick, you may pay anywhere from a few hundred pounds to around £8-10,000 for a large-scale and intricate model.

Installation prices typically range from £1,000 to £4,000, depending on the size of the installation. And, while these fees will undoubtedly yield a return over time, you should view them as part of the overall cost of air conditioning.

Running Costs

The actual running expenses of your air conditioning equipment will be determined by factors such as size and demand. Suppose you're working on a listed or older building with inadequate ventilation. In that case, your unit may be running more frequently than if, say, you installed one in your home office to remove leftover heat from your gadgets.

On average, estimates suggest that an air conditioning unit costs between 8 and 14 pence each hour it runs. If you use your unit every day for a month, for 6 hours each day, you'll pay £25 per month and £300 annually. Furthermore, suppose you have a multi-split system with several outlets, or a bigger scale and more complicated model. In that case, you should expect to pay more than £100 per month in operating costs.

Seasonal Usage Patterns       

Unlike sunnier locations, UK homes commonly use air conditioning (AC) during summer heatwaves (June-August), averaging 4-6 hours per day for 30-60 days per year.

The monthly cost for a 2kW split unit operating 6 hours every day for 30 days is around £88 (6 x 49p x 30). In comparison, infrequent use (e.g., 2 hours every day) costs £29 per month.

The frequency and duration of use of the unit have a significant impact on your cost.

How Much Does It Cost to Install a Home Air Conditioning System?

When it comes to air conditioning installation in your house, you have a variety of brands and types to select from, and MAC is no exception. Domestic clients can largely pick between two major manufacturers.

Factors Affecting the Running Costs of Aircons

Several factors determine whether your air conditioner is a thrifty buddy or an energy hog.

Type of Air Conditioning System

The cost of operating an air conditioning system is largely determined by its type. There are several choices, including central air conditioning, ductless mini-splits, and window units. Older air conditioners are often less energy efficient than modern versions. Newer units frequently have innovative technologies intended to cut energy use and running expenses.

Energy Efficiency Ratings

A higher SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) or EER rating will mean that your system requires less power to cool your room. For example, a unit rated A+++ or SEER 20+ may consume 20-50% less energy than a previous A-rated one. It's worth verifying before you buy, especially if you'll be using it frequently.

Insulation and Room Size

Attempting to cool a vast, draughty room. Your air conditioner will have to operate longer hours, increasing operating expenses. A smaller, well-insulated area cools down faster and stays cool longer, requiring less energy overall.

Your Use Patterns

Setting your thermostat to 18 degrees Celsius may seem refreshing, but it will significantly increase your energy use. A temperature of 22-24°C is generally more than adequate and can reduce your expenditures by around 3% for each degree higher. Using timers and smart controls can also assist you in avoiding operating the system when it isn't required.

Electricity Prices

According to Ofgem, the current average cost of energy in the UK is roughly 24.5p per kWh.

However, the precise amount you pay depends on your provider and tariff, so check your account to get a better sense of how much your air conditioner may cost to run.

System Features

Some air conditioners include energy-saving technologies like variable-speed compressors, which may alter their output to meet cooling demands more effectively. Using programmable or smart thermostats allows you to schedule and optimise your air conditioning consumption, eliminating energy waste.

The cooling capacity of your AC unit, measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units), influences its energy usage. Oversized units may turn on and off more often, resulting in inefficiency, whereas undersized units may operate constantly, unable to maintain the appropriate temperature. It is critical to verify that your system is the appropriate size for your room(s). For an exact assessment, please contact us for a free air conditioning installation price.

Service and Maintenance

Your air conditioning system must be repaired and maintained on a regular basis to ensure that it performs optimally. Clogged filters, filthy coils, and refrigerant leaks can all result in greater costs.

Outdoor Temperature

An air conditioner's output can be affected by the environmental temperature. Extreme temperatures might increase the strain on the unit, thereby lowering its cooling or heating capacity or efficiency.

How to Reduce the Cost of Running Air Conditioning?

The cost of running your air conditioning system is determined by a number of factors, including the kind and age of the system, its efficiency, and your maintenance habits. To save money, put energy-efficient equipment, frequent maintenance, and smart use practices at the top of your list. This lets you enjoy the comfort of air conditioning while simultaneously saving money on your electricity bills.

Frequent Upkeep

Schedule annual maintenance to wash the filters, check for leaks of refrigerant, and ensure the system is functioning properly. Regular maintenance and cleaning of the air conditioning equipment is required to guarantee peak performance. Dirt, dust, and debris on coils, filters, or fans can block airflow and lower system performance.

Insulation

Improve your home's insulation to limit heat absorption or loss, allowing your AC system to operate more efficiently.

Seal Exposures

Seal any holes and leaks in your home's windows, doors and ducts to keep cold air out and hot air in during the summer, and prevent warm air from leaving during the cooler months.

Adjustable Thermostats

Use programmable or smart thermostats to schedule your air conditioner to run at the best times and temperatures.

Exposure to the Sun

The quantity of sunshine that enters the space might affect the cooling or heating requirements. Rooms with direct sunlight may need extra cooling to balance the heat absorbed from the sun during exceptionally hot weather. Using window coverings like blinds or curtains may help minimise the amount of sunlight.

Unit Age and Condition

The age and general condition of the air conditioning system may impact its performance. Older units may have lower efficiency and cooling capacity than newer, more energy-efficient versions.

Use an Alternative Way to Power an AC

During a UK heatwave, using a Jackery Portable Power Station to run an air conditioner or other cooling appliances is a strategic choice driven by several factors. As the UK experiences increasingly frequent and intense heatwaves, having a reliable and flexible cooling solution becomes more of a necessity.

Jackery Portable Power Stations for Aircon

Air conditioners, particularly portable ones, are high-wattage appliances. A typical portable air conditioner in the UK can draw anywhere from 700W to 2500W, with most domestic models averaging around 1000-1200W. This power consumption is significantly higher than a fan, but still within the capabilities of larger Jackery Portable Power Stations.

Air conditioners, like many appliances with compressors, have a high "surge" wattage—a brief but significant spike in power consumption when the unit first turns on. Jackery's power stations have a high surge peak (e.g., 4000W on the 1000 Plus, 6000W on the 2000 Plus), which is crucial for handling this initial load and ensuring the air conditioner starts up without tripping the power station.

As UK heatwaves become more intense, the electricity grid can become stressed, increasing the risk of power cuts. Having a Jackery power station allows you to run a portable air conditioner, a fan, or an air cooler to keep a room comfortable, providing relief when the grid is down.

(*The working hours are only for reference; the actual working hours depend on your usage.)

Jackery Explorer 3000 v2

The Jackery Explorer 3000 v2 is an excellent choice for powering an air conditioner in the UK, especially during heatwaves. It's designed to handle high-demand appliances and offers features that make it ideal for both emergency use and smart energy management.

Substantial Continuous Power: The Explorer 3000 v2 provides a continuous output of 3600W. This is more than enough to power even the largest portable air conditioners available on the UK market, with plenty of headroom for other devices.

High Surge Peak: When an air conditioner's compressor turns on, it may demand a lot of electricity for a short period. The Explorer 3000 v2 has a large surge peak of 7200W, allowing it to absorb the first spike without triggering its overload protection. This is critical for the safe and dependable functioning of an air conditioning machine.

Generous Battery Capacity: The Explorer 3000 v2 has a base capacity of 3072Wh (3.07kWh). This means it can run a 1000W portable air conditioner for over 3 hours on a single charge. This is a considerable amount of time for providing targeted cooling to a bedroom or living space during the hottest part of the day or night.

Rapid Solar Charging: When paired with Jackery SolarSaga 200W solar panels, the Explorer 3000 v2 can be fully charged in as little as 3.5 hours with a 1000W solar input. This allows you to quickly replenish the battery using free, clean solar energy, providing a sustainable and cost-effective way to power your cooling appliances.

Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus

The Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus is another excellent choice for powering air conditioning because of its high power output, large capacity, and diverse features. While it is not a permanent solution for a mains-powered system, it is perfect for backup or off-grid use.

High Power Output: The Explorer 2000 Plus has a steady output of 3000W and a surge capacity of 6000W.  This is an important consideration for air conditioners, which have a high "starting wattage" or surge when the compressor turns on. A typical UK portable AC unit might demand 700W to 1500W, which is well within Jackery's capabilities. A wall-mounted split system for a single room may have a comparable power consumption, making it a feasible choice.

Large and Expandable Capacity: The unit's base capacity is 2042.8Wh. This provides a decent amount of runtime for a typical AC unit. For example, if you are running a 1150W portable air conditioner, the Jackery could power it for nearly 2 hours. A less powerful unit would run for longer. The main benefit of the 2000 Plus is its extensible capacity. You may add up to five more battery packs, bringing the total capacity to an astonishing 12 kWh. This makes it a scalable option for prolonged usage during a power outage.

Emergency Home Backup: Air conditioners are often utilised in the United Kingdom during heatwaves, when the power system may be stressed. The Jackery 2000 Plus offers a dependable source of backup power. It may keep a room cold during a power outage, bringing comfort and relaxation without the noise and pollution of a gas generator.

Off-Grid Living and Camping: For those with RVs, campervans, or off-grid setups, the Jackery is a perfect solution. It can power a portable AC unit to keep a caravan cool, and its compatibility with solar panels means you can recharge it sustainably while on the go.

LiFePO4 Battery: The Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus uses a LiFePO4 battery, which is known for its safety, long lifespan, and durability. It's rated for 4000 charge cycles before its capacity drops to 70%, which translates to a lifespan of over a decade with daily use.

Is Air Conditioning Worth It in the UK?

As UK summers become hotter, air conditioning becomes more enticing. Here's a balanced take on whether it's worth it:

Pros:

Air conditioning reduces heatwaves, improves sleep and productivity. It's a lifeline for houses with inadequate ventilation.

Professionally fitted systems can improve resale value, particularly in metropolitan settings.

Modern units filter dust and allergens, which improves air quality.

High-SEER split systems keep operating expenses down.

Cons:

Installation costs between £2,000 and £6,000, which is not exactly cheap.

Daily use adds £9-£100 per month to costs, depending on configuration.

Outdoor units require room, which can be challenging in apartments or terraced houses.

Annual service (£100-£200) is required to ensure efficiency and compliance with F-Gas rules.

How to Choose an Energy-Efficient Air Conditioner?

This is entirely dependent on how frequently you want to use it, as well as the size and architecture of the place you want to keep cool. Air conditioning is not good for the environment and can be costly. Spending a little more on the most efficient solution for your needs will benefit both your pocketbook and the environment.

The most important factor to consider is the size of your area, and choose an air conditioning unit with a BTU (British Thermal Unit) rating that matches. To find this out, increase the square feet of your area by 25BTU.

What Is The Cheapest Type Of Air Conditioning?

A portable air conditioning unit is less expensive than a permanent system. These devices are portable, as the name implies, and may be moved from room to room as needed. The finest portable air conditioners start at about £250 and include no installation fees.

If you're curious about how a portable air conditioning unit works, "a portable air conditioner is a convenient and flexible cooling solution without the commitment and expense of a fixed air conditioning system," explains Chris Michael, managing director of Meaco. "They're little and simple to transfer from room to room. They do not need professional installation and may be stored after the summer season has over. Some models have dual heating capabilities, so they may also be used to stay warm in the cold."

Types Of Air Conditioning Systems

Beyond the basic categories, let's look at particular alternatives inside each:

(Data Source: Heatable)

Each kind is appropriate for a variety of applications. For modest apartments, a portable unit may suffice. Split or multi-split systems are the best options for bigger houses or long-term use.

FAQs

The following are frequently asked questions about the air conditioning running cost:

1. How much does it cost to run an AC for 1 hour?

An air conditioner typically costs between $0.06 and $0.88 per hour to operate. Let's examine how much air conditioning costs every month (assuming it operates for 8 hours per day). The cheapest plan costs $14.40 per month, while the most expensive is $211.20 per month.

2. How much does air conditioning cost to run in the UK?

In the UK, the cost of running an air conditioner normally runs between 20p and 50p per hour. This equates to approximately £1.60 to £4.00 per day (based on 8 hours of use), or £50 to £120 per month for moderate usage. The actual cost is determined by the type of air conditioner, its power usage, and the current energy rate.

3. How much does an aircon cost to run per hour?

It's difficult to determine the actual operating cost of your air conditioner, so let's start with some rough calculations. Assuming ideal conditions, a 2.5 kW unit may cost roughly $0.22 per hour to run, while a 9 kW unit could cost $6.30 per hour at full capacity.

4. How much is an aircon for 1 hour?

A normal 36-square-meter room might cost between $0.36 and $0.70 per hour. That's because larger areas require more cooling power. Many Singapore homeowners spend between $30 and $45 per month on air conditioning bills. However, your bill could be greater or cheaper depending on how frequently you use it.

Final Thoughts

Running an air conditioner in the UK does not have to cost a fortune, especially if you buy the proper system and practise energy-saving habits. Portable units provide flexibility at a reduced initial cost, although split systems provide greater long-term efficiency. 

Always check the energy ratings, service your unit on a regular basis, and apply smart controls to reduce needless operation. For houses that use air conditioning mostly during the summer, the cost is generally justified by the increased comfort and air quality. In the end, educated judgment determines the cost of running air conditioning. Compare choices, track your energy use, and keep cool without going overboard.