Air Conditioner Cost Formula:
From: | To: |
This calculator estimates the running costs of air conditioners in Australia based on their capacity, usage hours, electricity rates, and SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating. It helps consumers understand and compare operating costs of different AC units.
The calculator uses the following formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula accounts for how much energy the AC unit consumes relative to its cooling output, with higher SEER ratings indicating better efficiency and lower operating costs.
Details: SEER measures how efficiently an air conditioning system uses electricity over an entire cooling season. In Australia, typical SEER ratings range from 3.5 (basic units) to 7+ (high-efficiency inverter models).
Tips:
Q1: What's a typical electricity rate in Australia?
A: Rates vary by state and provider, but typically range from 25-40c per kWh (2023 rates).
Q2: How can I find my AC's SEER rating?
A: Check the product manual, manufacturer website, or the energy rating label (blue star rating).
Q3: Does this account for heating costs?
A: No, this calculates cooling costs only. Reverse-cycle systems have separate efficiency ratings for heating.
Q4: Why is my actual bill different?
A: Real-world factors like temperature extremes, thermostat settings, insulation quality, and unit maintenance affect actual costs.
Q5: What's a good SEER rating?
A: In Australia, look for at least 4.5 SEER. Inverter models often achieve 6+ SEER, offering significant savings.