Installing window air conditioning in your home is a great way to keep a single room cool during the hot summer months. If you don't need air conditioning regularly or your home doesn't have central air, a window AC unit may be the perfect solution for you. However, the cost of installation can vary depending on several factors.
The National Average Cost
On average, the cost of installing window air conditioning ranges from $350 to $1,150. The majority of people pay around $546 for the installation of an 8,000 BTU window air conditioner in a 340 sq.ft. room. At the lower end of the price spectrum, you can expect to pay around $277 for a 5,000 BTU unit in a 150 sq.ft. room. On the higher end, the installation of an 18,000 BTU window air conditioner in a 1,000 sq.ft. room can cost up to $1,709.
Window AC Installation Cost
The national average cost for installing window air conditioning is $546, with a range of $350 to $1,150. Here's a breakdown of the cost:
- National average cost: $546
- Average range: $350-$1,150
- Low-end: $277
- High-end: $1,709
Window Air Conditioner Price by Size
The cost of a window air conditioner depends on its size, which is measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units). The larger the space you need to cool, the higher the number of BTUs you will need. The average cost of a window air conditioner ranges from $60 to $700. Here's a breakdown of the cost by room size:
- 150 sq.ft. room: 5,000 BTUs, $60-$150
- 250 sq.ft. room: 6,000 BTUs, $70-$250
- 300 sq.ft. room: 7,000 BTUs, $200-$500
- 550 sq.ft. room: 12,000 BTUs, $350-$500
- 700 sq.ft. room: 14,000 BTUs, $400-$500
- 1,000 sq.ft. room: 18,000 BTUs, $500-$700
Window AC Price by Ton
Window air conditioners are also categorized by tonnage, which refers to their cooling capacity. One ton can remove around 12,000 BTUs of heat per hour. The size you need depends on the square footage of the space. For a 150 to 500 square foot room, a 0.5 to 1 ton window unit is sufficient. For larger spaces of 1,000 square feet or more, a 1.5 ton unit is required. The cost of a window AC unit by ton ranges from $60 to $1,000. Here's a breakdown of the cost:
- 0.5 ton: 5,000-9,000 BTUs, $60-$500
- 1 ton: 10,000-14,000 BTUs, $350-$500
- 1.5 ton: 15,000-18,000 BTUs, $500-$700
- 2 ton: 19,000-24,000 BTUs, $750-$1,000
Window AC Unit Cost by Type
Window air conditioning units come in different types, each with its own features, pros, cons, and costs. The average cost for a window air conditioner by type ranges from $250 to $800. Here are the different types and their respective costs:
- Smart: $250-$500
- Energy Star: $300-$700
- Window Heat Pump: $500-$800
Smart Window AC
Smart air conditioners can be controlled remotely through an app and can be integrated with home automation systems and devices like Alexa. They are more energy-efficient, allow for temperature changes from anywhere in the home, and some even learn your habits and adjust accordingly. The average cost for a smart window AC unit is between $250 and $500.
Energy Star Window AC
Energy Star rated units are more efficient and offer more options compared to other models. They have variable-speed fans for better temperature control and can help save money on energy bills. However, they are generally more expensive. The average cost for an Energy Star window AC unit is between $300 and $700.
Window AC Heat Pump
Window heat pump units provide both heating and cooling options for a room. They extract heat or cold from the air outside and transfer it indoors. They are quieter than standard AC units and eliminate the need for removing the unit at the end of the season. However, they may require a special outlet and are more expensive than standard window AC units. The average cost for a window AC heat pump unit is between $500 and $800.
Window AC Price by Brand
The brand of the air conditioner is another important factor affecting the cost. Some brands may have higher or lower costs due to factors like name recognition or the quality of their products. The average cost for a window air conditioner by brand ranges from $150 to $1,000. Here are some common brands and their respective cost ranges:
- Hitachi: $150-$650
- Daikin: $200-$700
- Samsung: $200-$700
- LG: $250-$1,000
- Panasonic: $250-$1,000
Labor Cost to Install Window Air Conditioner
When it comes to labor costs, professionals typically charge between $50 and $150 for the project. The total cost of installation, including labor and materials, can range from $350 to $1,150 for an 8,000 BTU window air conditioner in a 340 sq.ft. room. While many window units can be installed by homeowners themselves, professional installation ensures a secure and proper fit. Temporary installations using a kit cost between $50 and $75, while permanent installations for discrete or vertical units can cost around $100 to $150.
How Much Does it Cost to Run a Window Air Conditioner?
The cost of running a window air conditioner depends on factors such as the unit size, energy efficiency rating (SEER), and the cost of electricity in your area. The average cost ranges from $41 to $103. To estimate your specific cost, you need to know the unit's AMPs and wattage consumption. Multiply these values together to get the total wattage consumption and convert it to kilowatts. Multiply the cost per hour by the number of kilowatts per hour to determine the cost of running your unit for one hour. The table below shows the average costs of running window units of different sizes:
- 5,000 BTUs: $41-$50
- 6,000 BTUs: $47-$60
- 8,000 BTUs: $62-$72
- 10,000 BTUs: $78-$90
- 12,000 BTUs: $93-$103
Window AC Maintenance
Window air conditioners are relatively low maintenance, requiring annual or biannual maintenance for a cost of $65 to $150. This maintenance should be performed by a licensed AC company to maintain the unit's warranty. During maintenance visits, an HVAC technician inspects the unit, cleans or changes the filter, cleans out the drains, and checks the coolant levels. Homeowners can also follow some tips to maintain their AC unit, such as regularly checking and cleaning the filter every three months.
Portable AC vs Window AC
While window air conditioners are a popular choice for single-room cooling, portable units are another option. Window AC units cost less than portable ones, with an average cost ranging from $350 to $1,150. Window units are more efficient at cooling, take up no floor space, and are easier to store. On the other hand, portable units are easy to use and don't require installation. They can be moved around on wheels but are bulkier and less efficient at cooling a space.
Window AC vs Wall AC
Wall-mounted AC units are similar to window units but install directly into the wall instead of the window. Both types are efficient and cool the room effectively, but wall AC units require specialized installation, making them slightly more expensive. The average installation cost for a wall AC unit ranges from $3,150 to $9,000, while a window AC unit costs between $350 and $1,150.
Window Unit vs Central Air Cost
If you want to cool your entire home, central air conditioning is the way to go. However, if you only need to cool specific rooms, window units are more suitable. Window AC units are less expensive, with an average cost ranging from $350 to $1,150. Central air conditioning units, on the other hand, cost between $5,000 and $12,000.
Window AC Repair Cost
If your window air conditioner needs repairs, the average cost ranges from $50 to $125. Common repairs include thermostat failure, recharging the unit, replacing worn-out parts, and cleaning if dirt is causing issues. It's important to evaluate whether repairing the unit is cost-effective compared to replacing it, especially if there are multiple issues or a faulty motor.
Window AC Recharge Cost
If your window unit needs to be recharged with refrigerant, professional recharge services can cost between $100 and $200. Frequent recharges may indicate an underlying problem that needs to be addressed or may require the replacement of the unit or system. Homeowners can recharge their units using a refrigerant kit and the necessary equipment for less than $100.
Enhancement and Improvement Costs
- Window AC Thermostat: Installing a new thermostat during air conditioning installation costs between $150 and $400.
- Window AC Accessories: Additional accessories such as covers, skirts, insulation, side panels, and brackets can range from $25 to $150.
- Outlet Installation: If you don't have an outlet near your unit, hiring an electrician to install one costs between $120 and $200.
It's important to consider these additional costs and factors when planning to install or maintain a window air conditioner. Always consult with professionals and get multiple estimates to ensure that you make an informed decision.