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January 30, 2025

How Much Does It Cost to Run Air Conditioning in Western Australia?

Author:  Nick Celenza

Western Australia is no stranger to soaring summer temperatures, with heatwaves and long stretches of dry, sweltering days making air conditioning a must-have for many households. But as essential as it is, the running costs can concern homeowners and renters alike.

So, how much does it cost to run air conditioning in WA, and what can you do to minimise your energy bills without compromising on comfort?

This guide explores the factors influencing running costs, the types of systems available, and practical strategies to manage your expenses.

Cost to Run Air Conditioning in Western Australia
Understanding Air Conditioning Costs

Understanding Air Conditioning Costs

Several key factors influence the cost of running air conditioning in your home:

Type of Air Conditioner

The type of system you choose plays a significant role in determining your running costs. Split systems are ideal for cooling individual rooms and tend to be more energy-efficient for smaller spaces. Ducted systems, on the other hand, offer whole-home cooling but are more expensive to operate due to higher energy demands.

Evaporative coolers can be cost-effective in dry climates, but their cooling performance may not match that of refrigerated systems on particularly hot days.

Energy Efficiency

Air conditioners with higher energy star ratings use less electricity to achieve the same cooling output. While they may have a higher initial cost, these systems provide long-term savings by significantly reducing how much it costs to run.

Electricity Tariffs

WA’s electricity rates vary by provider and plan. Synergy’s A1 tariff, for example, charges approximately 30.06 cents/kWh. Opting for time-of-use tariffs can lower costs if you can run your air conditioner during off-peak hours.

Home Insulation

Proper insulation helps retain cool air inside your home, reducing the workload on your air conditioner. Poorly insulated homes require more energy to maintain comfortable temperatures, increasing running costs.

Usage Habits

How and when you use your air conditioner impacts costs significantly. Running the system for long hours, especially at very low temperatures or during peak times, can quickly add up. Set your thermostat wisely and make sure to turn off your system when it’s not needed to make a big difference.

Tips to Lower Just How Much It Costs to Run Air Conditioning

Tips to Lower Just How Much It Costs to Run Air Conditioning

Set Your Thermostat to an Efficient Temperature

Every degree you lower your air conditioner below 24°C can increase energy use by up to 10%. For most homes, keeping the thermostat between 24°C and 26°C strikes the perfect balance between comfort and efficiency.

Maintain Your Air Conditioner

Dirty filters, clogged vents, or neglected systems can lead to inefficiencies and higher running costs. Regular maintenance or electrical inspections done by qualified technicians, like any of our team at PWA Electrical Services, ensure your air conditioner runs smoothly and consumes less energy. Clean or replace filters frequently, and schedule professional servicing annually.

Insulate Your Home

Good insulation keeps the cool air inside where it belongs. Think about adding ceiling insulation, sealing gaps around doors and windows, and installing thermal curtains to block heat from the sun.

Consider Solar Power

Western Australia’s abundant sunshine makes solar power a great way to offset air conditioning costs. By installing solar panels, you can run your system during the day without relying heavily on grid electricity, saving money and reducing your carbon footprint.

Use Fans to Help in Cooling

Ceiling or portable fans help improve air circulation, making the room feel cooler and reducing your need for air conditioning. When combined with smart systems, they let you set your thermostat higher while staying comfortable and saving energy.

How to Make Cooling More Sustainable

How to Make Cooling More Sustainable

If you’re wondering how to balance comfort with sustainability, a few smart choices can reduce how much it costs to run your air conditioning while minimising your environmental impact.

Choose High Energy Star Ratings

Choosing models with high energy star ratings is one of the best ways to lower how much it costs to run air conditioning. These units use significantly less power and provide long-term savings. Look for inverter technology, which adjusts power output based on cooling demand, ensuring efficient performance.

Use Smart Thermostats

Smart thermostats and programmable timers can optimise your system and reduce unnecessary usage. Automating your cooling schedule ensures the air conditioner only runs when needed, which can dramatically reduce how much it costs to run air conditioning over time.

Ventilate Naturally

During cooler evenings, open windows and use cross-ventilation to replace warm indoor air with cool outdoor air. Fans can further improve the airflow, reducing your reliance on air conditioning and lowering how much it costs to run air conditioning in your home.

Stay Comfortable in Summer with PWA Electrical Services

Stay Comfortable in Summer with PWA Electrical Services

Wondering how much it costs to run air conditioning and how to lower them? PWA Electrical Services is here to help. We’ll guide you in selecting the most energy-efficient system, handle expert installations, and provide quality maintenance to keep your cooling running smoothly and affordably.

Our team delivers tailored solutions designed for your home and lifestyle, ensuring your air conditioning operates at peak performance while saving you money.

Don’t wait—contact our licensed electricians today and start enjoying a cooler, more cost-effective summer.