How much does it cost to cool an apartment with an air conditioner?
The operating costs of an air conditioner (or a air source heat pump in cooling mode) vary depending on energy efficiency, electricity price, apartment size, indoor unit placement and climate. On average, cooling an apartment in an apartment building, such as a two- or three-room apartment, costs approx. €20-40 per year, depending mainly on the price of electricity and the number of hot days. In larger apartments the price may be €40-50 per year. By investing in an efficient device and using it wisely, you can enjoy a cool home without unreasonable electricity bills.
What affects the price of cooling?
1. Electricity consumption and energy efficiency
The energy efficiency of air conditioner is measured with SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio)– and EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) -values. The higher the SEER, the less electricity is consumed. The SEER values of new air conditioners range between 6 and 12, and a higher value means a lower electricity bill.
2. Electricity price
The cost of cooling depends entirely on the local electricity price, which is measured in kilowatt hours (kWh). The price of electricity in Finland varies, but on average it is around €0.15–0.30/kWhThe cost is calculated by multiplying the device's consumption by the price of electricity.
3. Apartment size and insulation
A larger apartment requires more cooling capacity. Typical 3.5 kW air conditioner uses 600–1200 watts per hour, depending on the model and power output. Good insulation, energy-efficient windows and draft-proofing reduce the need for cooling and therefore also the electricity bill. In apartment buildings, attention must be paid to ensuring that the balcony or terrace windows are open so that the hot air blown from the outdoor unit can escape.
4. Local climate
If you live in the south, the pump may run all summer, while in the north, use may be limited to hot days. The more cooling is needed, the more costs will be incurred.
5. Device placement
Optimal placement of the indoor unit reduces the need for operating time. When cool air can circulate better in the apartment, the desired temperature is reached faster.
How much does cooling cost?
For example:
- 3.5 kW cooling air source heat pump with a SEER of 7, consumes approx. 800 watts (0.8 kWh) per hour.
- If it runs 8 hours per day, it consumes 6.4 kWh per day.
- If electricity price is €0.15/kWh, the daily cost is 0,96 €.
- In Finland (and in Northern USA) the amount of hot days per year is around 40. That means annual costs would be 38,40 €.
In larger apartments, the price increases, but by choosing an efficient device and optimizing usage, you can save significantly. Using solar panels in detached homes, cooling can be practically free, as the need for sunlight and cooling occur practically at the same time.
Top 3 cooling air heat pumps for apartment buildings
- Just cooling
- Meets the housing company's requirements
- Trusted brands
Mitsubishi Electric HR
Installed in an apartment building from €1,700
- 2.5 and 3.5 kW power classes
- 20 - 120 m2
- WiFi as standard
- PM 2.5 air purifier as standard
- Trusted brand
Panasonic TZ
Installed in an apartment building from €1,700
- 2.5, 3.5 and 4.2 kW power classes
- 20 - 150 m2
- WiFi as standard
- PM 2.5 air purifier as standard
- Excellent airflow
Toshiba Seiya+
Installed in an apartment building from €1,720
- 10, 13 and 16+ power classes
- 20 - 150 m2
- WiFi optional
- PM 2.5 air purifier as standard
- Quiet voice
Free yourself from permission hassles.
Order Coolflat cooling package.
- Stylish and quiet air conditioner
- Permit issues for a housing association
- Neat and professional installation
- Free cooling device while you wait