Air Conditioner Vs. Fan Energy Costs

Air Conditioner Costs

• A 3-ton central air conditioner with a seasonal energy efficiency ratio rating of 14.5, the minimum required standard for a central unit to qualify for Energy Star, will cost you $207 if it runs eight hours per day, 125 days a year, as of 2009. Old models that don't qualify for Energy Star will cost even more. While the size of the air conditioner can influence the energy use, the seasonal energy efficiency ratio rating is the most important factor since older models aren't designed to conserve energy. Keep in mind that the higher the rating, the more efficient the air conditioner.

Fan Costs

• However, if you run a fan 24 hours a day during those same 125 days, the cost will be less because fans require less energy. Based on the same factors as the air conditioner, but running the full 24 hours, the fan will cost $111.90, as of 2009.

Considerations

• If you use a fan in conjunction with an air conditioner, it will help cut down costs. Using a ceiling fan will let you raise your thermostat 4 degrees Fahrenheit and the temperature will feel exactly the same.