Key Takeaways
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost Range for Units | $150 – $800 |
| Total Installed Cost | $300 – $1,100 |
| Running Costs | $12 – $120 per month |
| Comparison | Window units are cheaper but less efficient than central air |
Window AC Unit Cost Overview
Window AC units come in a range of sizes and prices, capable of cooling different room sizes. Here’s a breakdown of window AC unit costs:
Window AC Unit Cost Installed
| Factor | Cost |
|---|---|
| National average cost | $640 |
| Minimum cost | $150 |
| Maximum cost | $1,700 |
| Average cost range | $300 to $1,100 |
Calculating the cost of installing a window AC unit includes the price of the unit itself and installation fees.
Window AC Unit Cost of Installation
Installing a window AC unit involves multiple factors that can influence the total cost:
Window AC Unit Cost of Installation
| Factor | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Remove and dispose of old window AC unit* | $50 – $200 |
| New window AC unit | $150 – $800 |
| Installation labor | $150 – $300 |
| Total installation cost | $300 – $1,100 |
*Note: Removal cost applies if replacing an existing unit.
Window AC Unit Prices vs. Through-The-Wall or Portable
Different types of AC units are available on the market, each with distinct features and cost implications. Here’s a comparison:
Window AC Unit Prices by Type
| Type | Unit Cost | Total Cost Installed |
|---|---|---|
| Window AC unit | $150 – $800 | $300 – $1,100 |
| Portable AC unit* | $200 – $900 | $200 – $900 |
| Wall-mounted AC unit | $400 – $1,800 | $700 – $2,400 |
*Portable units typically have no installation cost.
Window Air Conditioner Prices
The cost of window air conditioners also varies according to their capacity and the area they can cool.
Window Air Conditioner Prices by Size
| Cooling Area (square feet) | BTUs | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| 150 – 350 | 5,000 – 8,000 | $150 – $520 |
| 350 – 550 | 8,000 – 12,000 | $220 – $570 |
| 550 – 1,000 | 12,000 – 18,000 | $300 – $800 |
| 1,050 – 1,600 | 18,500 – 25,000 | $550 – $1,000 |
Wall AC Unit Cost
Wall AC units, installed through an external wall, generally come with higher costs due to the more complex installation.
Portable AC Unit Prices
Portable AC units offer flexibility as they can be moved from room to room but typically project higher unit costs without installation fees.
Cost To Run A Window AC Unit
Operating costs for window AC units depend on their capacity and how frequently they are used.
Window AC Unit Cost to Run
| Size | Cost per Hour | Cost per Day* | Cost per Month* |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5,000 BTU | $0.05 – $0.12 | $0.40 – $1.00 | $12.00 – $30.00 |
| 8,000 BTU | $0.08 – $0.20 | $0.60 – $1.60 | $18.00 – $50.00 |
| 12,000 BTU | $0.12 – $0.30 | $1.00 – $2.40 | $30.00 – $70.00 |
| 15,000 BTU | $0.15 – $0.40 | $1.20 – $3.20 | $36.00 – $96.00 |
| 18,000 BTU | $0.20 – $0.50 | $1.60 – $4.00 | $48.00 – $120.00 |
*Estimates based on 8 hours of use per day.
Is It Cheaper To Use Central Air or Window Units?
Comparing the costs between central air and window units can clarify which system might be more cost-effective for your needs.
Central Air vs. Window AC Unit
| Factor | Window AC Unit | Central Air Conditioning |
|---|---|---|
| Installation Cost | $300 – $1,100 | $2,500 – $7,500 |
| Monthly Cost to Run | $12 – $120 | $80 – $200 |
| Pros | Less expensive, less intrusive installation process, can cool only a single room, uses less energy | Whole-home cooling, even room temperature with no hot spots, better air filtration, cooling and heating options |
| Cons | Minimal filtration options, hot spots in rooms due to less air circulation, requires multiple units to cool the whole home | More expensive to install, more intrusive installation process, more expensive to run |
Window AC Unit FAQs
How Long Do Window AC Units Last?
Window AC units typically last between 8 to 12 years, depending on usage and maintenance.
What Size Window AC Do I Need?
Determining the right size window AC unit for your space is crucial to ensuring efficient cooling and energy usage.
Recommended Window AC Size
| Room Size (square feet) | BTU Range |
|---|---|
| 150 – 350 | 5,000 – 8,000 BTU |
| 350 – 550 | 8,000 – 12,000 BTU |
| 550 – 1,000 | 12,000 – 18,000 BTU |
| 1,050 – 1,600 | 18,500 – 25,000 BTU |
Can I Install A Window AC Myself?
Yes, installing a window AC is possible for individuals comfortable with basic DIY tasks. However, professional installation ensures proper sealing and efficiency.
Do Window AC Units Use A Lot Of Electricity?
Window AC units generally use less electricity compared to central air systems. The exact consumption depends on the unit’s BTU rating and usage patterns.
Where To Buy Window AC Units
Window AC units are widely available at home improvement stores, appliance retailers, and online marketplaces such as Amazon, Home Depot, and Lowe’s.
Hiring A Handyman Or Window AC Installer
When considering professional installation, it’s essential to hire a qualified handyman or contractor to ensure optimal functioning and efficiency.
Questions To Ask
When hiring a professional installer, consider these crucial questions:
- Are you licensed and insured?
- What’s your experience with window AC installations?
- Can you provide references?
- What’s included in the installation cost?
- Do you offer a warranty for your services?
These questions help in selecting a reliable and skilled professional for the job.
By understanding the costs and various aspects of window AC units, you can make an informed decision suited to your cooling needs and budget.
