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Portable Air ConditionerCost: Purchase Price & Running Cost
Portable air conditioners typically use 1,000–1,400 watts. They're less efficient than window units because the exhaust hose radiates heat back into the room.
Average Purchase Price
$300–$700
8,000–14,000 BTU portable units
watts
hrs/day
$/kWh
Daily Cost
$1.79
11.2 kWh
Monthly Cost
$53.76
336.0 kWh
Yearly Cost
$654.08
4088.0 kWh
For perspective...
At $654.08/year, this is a major energy expense — equivalent to a car payment. Strongly consider more efficient alternatives.
Energy-Saving Tips for Your Portable Air Conditioner
- Keep the exhaust hose as short and straight as possible
- Seal the window gap around the hose to prevent hot air from entering
- A window AC unit is typically 30-50% more efficient if installation is possible