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Cost to run a window / portable air conditioner in Victoria (2026–27)

VIC reference tariff · 27.5c/kWh

$0.33 per hour at 1,200 W

Typical use (6 h/day, 90 days a year at 1,200 W) ≈ $178/year on the Jemena rate.

Source: ESC Victorian Default Offer 2026–27, effective 1 July 2026

Portable aircon cost in VIC at 6 h/day, 90 days/year (27.5c/kWh)
Model bandPer hourPer dayPer monthPer year
Efficient (700 W)$0.19$1.15$35.07$104
Typical (1,200 W)$0.33$1.98$60.13$178
High (2,000 W)$0.55$3.30$100.21$297

Appliance running-cost calculator

VIC

Portable aircon: 700–2,000 W typical range.

4–8 h/day, usually one room in the evening; portables often run flat-out.

$0.33 per hour · $178/year at your settings
Per day (6 h)
$1.98
Per month
$60.13
Per year (90 days)
$178.01

Tariff: 27.5c/kWh — ESC Victorian Default Offer 2026–27 for the Jemena network, effective 1 July 2026. Wattage basis: Aircon Advice — portable AC running costs (AU). Full portable aircon costs in VIC →

The same appliance in other states

Cutting the cost

These are the least efficient way to cool a space, so use them as a spot fix, not an all-day habit. Seal the exhaust hose snugly in the window opening so hot air can't sneak back in. Cool one closed room rather than the whole house, and switch to a plain fan once it's comfortable. Empty or drain the unit as directed to keep it running properly.

Frequently asked questions

What does a portable aircon cost per hour in VIC?
$0.33 at the typical 1,200 W draw on VIC's reference rate of 27.5c/kWh (Jemena network). Efficient models run $0.19, high-draw models $0.55.
How is this calculated?
Watts ÷ 1,000 × the tariff = cost per hour, then × hours × days for the period figures. Every figure on this page uses VIC's 2026–27 reference rate — change the assumptions in the calculator above.
Is the tariff here what I actually pay?
It's the ESC Victorian Default Offer 2026–27 usage rate for the Jemena network — the government reference. Your market offer may be a little under it; your zone may differ. See VIC rates by zone.

Related

Sources — figures current as at 17 July 2026.

4–8 h/day, usually one room in the evening; portables often run flat-out.