When looking for a new HVAC unit, it’s crucial to take into account a unit’s energy consumption, while trying to strike a balance between effectiveness and efficiency. In addition, your potential monthly bills will be a factor to consider before you make the large investment that an air conditioning system requires.
The Average Wattage of Central Air Conditioners
The amount of electricity that your air conditioner uses depends on its size. Bigger units will require more power to get the job done. The more BTU your air conditioner has, the more watts it will take to run the system. In rough numbers, the average central air conditioner will need about 3,500 watts of power to cool your home. A large number of watts is not always the best idea because you will pay for it.
Central air conditioning systems come in all sizes. The one that you select depends on the size of your home and how much energy you want to use. On the lower end of the spectrum, an 18,000-BTU central air conditioner will need between 1,000 and 1,500 watts. These are for smaller homes. On the upper end of the range, a 60,000-BTU air conditioner will need 4,000 to 5,000 watts. How many watts you ultimately go with depends on a number of factors, including the cooling power that you need based on your home’s layout and occupancy level.
Different Cooling Systems Have Varying Power Needs
It’s possible to find more energy-efficient models that could do the job using less power. You may also consider cooling solutions that don’t involve a massive central air system. If you’re using smaller units in the windows, you can count on them needing 500 to 1,500 watts of power. Portable air conditioning units will require between 3,000 to 4,000 watts. As always, an AC technician can help you choose the right system that takes into account effectiveness and energy efficiency.
Call the experts at Logan's Heating & Cooling for help with your Clinton heating and cooling installation, maintenance and repair needs. We can help you get comfortable in your own home. Reach out to us today!
