An air conditioner consumes about 0.75 to 3 kilowatts per hour, depending on the size and power of the unit.

However, the energy costs of an air conditioner depend on the following factors:

• Size and model of the air conditioner: The larger the air conditioner, the more electricity it consumes. More energy-efficient models cost less.
• Frequency of use: The more often you use the air conditioner, the more electricity it consumes and the higher the cost.
• Hourly electricity rate: Electricity rates vary by supplier and region. Therefore, it is important to know your hourly rate to calculate the cost of electricity consumption.
• Outside temperature: The ambient temperature affects the energy consumption of the air conditioner. If the outside temperature is very hot, the air conditioner needs more energy to cool the room.
• Energy efficiency: Air conditioners are divided into energy efficiency classes from A to G, with A being the most efficient. Class A air conditioners are cheaper than class G air conditioners.

Does an air conditioner consume more energy in cold or hot mode?

In heating mode, an air conditioner usually consumes more energy than in cooling mode. 

Operating an air conditioner in heating mode involves generating heat, which requires more energy than simply cooling the air in cooling mode. Energy costs also depend on the technology of the unit and its heating capacity, as well as the desired temperature and the outside temperature. It is also important to note that prolonged operation of an air conditioner in heating mode can lead to a significant increase in energy bills.

How can I save energy by using air conditioning?

If you want to save energy when operating an air conditioner, you can follow these tips:

• Use an air conditioner with the energy efficiency label A+++: The energy efficiency label on an air conditioner indicates the energy efficiency of the appliance and ranges from class A+++ (most efficient) to class G (least efficient). More specifically, class A+++ means that the appliance is very efficient in energy consumption, which translates into lower running costs and a smaller carbon footprint so it makes sense to choose an air conditioner with an A+++ label to save energy in the long term. As an example of its low energy consumption, an air conditioner with an A+++ energy classification uses 20-50% less energy than an A++ air conditioner and around 60-80% less energy compared to an A energy classification.
• Set the temperature: It is more energy efficient to maintain a comfortable temperature than to change it constantly.

• Use time control: Programmable thermostats allow you to set schedules for the air conditioner so you don’t waste energy during the hours you’re not home.

• Maintain your system regularly: Regular maintenance can improve the energy efficiency of the air conditioner and extend the life of the unit.

• Close doors and windows: Keep doors and windows closed when the air conditioner is in operation to avoid losing conditioned air.
• Avoid blocking air inlets: Make sure that the air conditioner’s air inlets are unobstructed and not blocked so that the air can circulate optimally.

Which brands of air conditioners have the lowest energy consumption?

There are several brands that offer air conditioners with low energy consumption, including :

• Mitsubishi Electric
• Daikin
• LG
• Fujitsu
• Toshiba

It is important to note that the energy consumption of an air conditioner depends on several factors, including the size of the room, the efficiency of the system and how it is used. When choosing an air conditioner, you should therefore look for models with a high energy efficiency rating (e.g. A+++). 

Some examples of the most efficient units on the market

• Wall split Toshiba Seiya 10
• Wall split Mitsubishi Electric MSZ-AY25VGK
• Wall Split Daikin Perfera TXM25R

If you are interested in buying an air conditioner, we recommend you take a look at our section Air conditioners with the highest energy efficiency class A+++.