AC versus cooler: Which consumes more electricity?

In the sweltering summer, coolers and air conditioners (ACs) are indispensable in many households. Both the cooling machines provide relief from the heat, but they certainly impact when it comes to electricity consumption and, simultaneously consume your utility bills. If you are trying to still decide which machine to buy, between a cooler or an AC without significantly increasing your electricity bill, then here is a clear comparison to help you decide with the information.

Understanding power consumption: ACs vs. coolers

Power consumption of a cooler

Coolers are often seen as a more economical cooling solution when compared to ACs. To understand their electricity consumption, let’s consider a typical cooler that uses up to 400 watts per hour. If you run this cooler continuously for 12 hours a day:

Then the daily power usage: 400 watts/hour x 12 hours = 4,800 watts or 4.8 kilowatt-hours (kWh).

• If it is evaluated per month power usage: 4.8 kWh/day x 30 days = 144 kWh.

Given the average electricity rate of Rs 7 per unit (kWh), the monthly cost of running a cooler for 12 hours a day would be:

• Monthly Cost: 144 kWh x Rs 7/kWh = Rs 1,008.

Power consumption of an AC

Now, let us compare this to a 1.5-ton air conditioner with a 5-star energy efficiency rating, which consumes approximately 840 watts per hour. Running the AC for 12 hours a day would result in the following power consumption:

• Daily power usage: 840 watts/hour x 12 hours = 10,080 watts or 10.08 kWh.
• Monthly power usage: 10.08 kWh/day x 30 days = 302.4 kWh.

Using the same electricity rate of Rs 7 per unit, the monthly cost of running the AC for 12 hours a day would be:

• Monthly Cost: 302.4 kWh x Rs 7/kWh = Rs 2,116.80.

Comparing costs: Cooler vs. AC

Cost Analysis is based on the calculations shown above, which it showcases that an air conditioner consumes significantly more electricity than a cooler. Running an AC for 12 hours daily can cost more than twice as much as running a cooler for the same duration. Here’s a quick summary:

• Cooler: Rs 1,008 per month
• AC: Rs 2,116.80 per month

Factors to consider

While coolers are more cost-effective in terms of electricity consumption, it is certainly important to consider other factors like: 

1. Cooling efficiency
2. Comfort
3. And the specific climate of the region. 

ACs are generally more effective when cooling is a concern, and maintain a consistent, comfortable indoor temperature, specifically in extremely hot and humid conditions.

Tips to reduce electricity bills

Whether you choose a cooler or an AC, here are some tips to help you reduce the electricity consumption:

1. Set appropriate temperatures: Keep your AC at a comfortable but not excessively low temperature, which will consume less power. For coolers, ensure optimal water and airflow.
2.    
3. Use timers and thermostats: Utilize programmable timers to limit the running time of your cooling devices.
4. Regular maintenance: Clean and maintain your AC and cooler regularly to ensure they operate efficiently.
5. Use blinds and curtains: Block out the sun’s heat during the hottest parts of the day to reduce the workload on your cooling system.
6. Optimize ventilation: In the evenings, when it’s cooler outside, use natural ventilation to cool your home instead of running your AC or cooler.

Overall, if you are looking forward to minimising your electricity bills, using a cooler is generally more economical than running an AC. However, the choice between a cooler and an AC should also consider factors like comfort, cooling needs, and your local climate.

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