Portable Air Conditioner Running Cost Calculator (UK)
Portable Air Conditioner Running Cost Calculator
How much does a portable air conditioner really cost to run in the UK? Choose a model or enter the power rating, set your hours and electricity price, and see the cost per hour, day, month and summer — instantly.
Your usage
Estimated running cost
| Model | BTU | Energy | Typical power | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| De'Longhi PAC EX100 Silent | 10,000 | A++ | ~0.70 kW | View → |
| De'Longhi PACES72 Compact | 8,300 | A | ~0.81 kW | View → |
| De'Longhi AP98 GentleJet | 11,500 | A+ | ~1.0 kW | View → |
| TCL TAC-12CHPB 4-in-1 | 12,000 | — | ~1.35 kW | View → |
How much does a portable air conditioner cost to run?
Running cost depends on three things: the unit's power draw (kW), how long it runs, and your electricity price. At the 2026 UK average of around 24.5p per kWh, a 1 kW portable AC running flat out costs roughly 25p an hour. In practice the compressor cycles on and off once the room reaches temperature, so real cost is usually 50–80% of that — which is why this calculator includes a compressor running-time setting.
How to lower your running costs
Pick a higher energy rating (A++ models like the PAC EX100 Silent draw less power for the same cooling), use eco or "real feel" modes, seal the window kit well so cool air isn't wasted, set a sensible target temperature, and use a timer overnight.
Frequently asked questions
Is a portable air conditioner expensive to run?
For typical evening use (a few hours a day) most portable ACs cost between £0.10 and £0.30 per hour at UK electricity prices — use the calculator above for your exact figure.
Which is cheaper to run, a higher or lower BTU unit?
A more efficient, higher-rated unit (A+/A++) can cool a room faster and cycle off sooner, often costing less overall than a cheap, low-rated model — even if its peak power is higher.
Does a portable AC use more electricity than a fan?
Yes — a fan uses far less power, but it only moves air rather than cooling it. An air conditioner actively lowers the temperature, which is why it costs more to run.
