Voltage Required for a Central Air Conditioning

Voltage

• Central air conditioners generally run on 220 volts, as do large appliances like electric ranges and clothes dryers. This is usually present in newer homes due to modern wiring codes, but older homes may have only 110-volt service. If you're not sure about your home's wiring, ask an electrician before installing a central air unit. Room air conditioners can usually run on 110 volts and might be best for smaller, older houses.

Energy Use

• While most central air units use 220 volts, they can vary in the amount of energy they actually consume. In average homes, air conditioning uses 2,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity each year. That's as much as 3,500 pounds of carbon dioxide and 31 pounds of sulfur dioxide emitted from the power plant that generated the electricity. Go for more efficient systems, such as two-stage cooling systems, to save energy costs. Modern air conditioners often uses 30 to 50 percent less energy than those from the 1970s. You can save 20 to 40 percent on cooling costs by replacing a 10-year-old system with a new, efficient model.

Installation

• Due to its high energy demands, a central air conditioner requires its own, separate, 220-volt circuit. A separate circuit prevents overloading from other appliances, which could result in a blown circuit. It's best to have the unit professionally installed. Obtain multiple bids from service companies to determine the best size for your home, and question any conflicting suggestions for size. The unit should be installed according to manufacturer instructions and ideally in a shady or north-facing side of the house, if you are in the Northern Hemisphere. It should have plenty of circulation around the condenser.

Efficiency

• Maintain your air conditioner yourself and have professional maintenance to keep it running most efficient. Replace or clean filters monthly, and remove grime and dirt from outside coils. Have an expert tune up the unit every two years or so. They will clean and check all parts and look for possible leaks. They will also ensure that the amps being drawn do not exceed manufacturer regulations.