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Cost to run a split-system air conditioner (cooling) in South Australia (2026–27)

SA reference tariff · 41.9c/kWh

$0.31 per hour at 750 W

Typical use (6 h/day, 90 days a year at 750 W) ≈ $170/year on the SA Power Networks rate.

Source: AER Default Market Offer 2026–27 (DMO 8), effective 1 July 2026

Split-system aircon cost in SA at 6 h/day, 90 days/year (41.9c/kWh)
Model bandPer hourPer dayPer monthPer year
Efficient (450 W)$0.19$1.13$34.40$102
Typical (750 W)$0.31$1.89$57.33$170
High (1,500 W)$0.63$3.77$114.67$339

Appliance running-cost calculator

SA

Split-system aircon: 450–1,500 W typical range.

4–8 h/day in summer; inverter units modulate below their rated draw once the room is at temperature.

$0.31 per hour · $170/year at your settings
Per day (6 h)
$1.89
Per month
$57.33
Per year (90 days)
$169.74

Tariff: 41.9c/kWh — AER Default Market Offer 2026–27 (DMO 8) for the SA Power Networks network, effective 1 July 2026. Wattage basis: Daikin Cora specifications (via Wholesale Aircon). Full split-system aircon costs in SA →

The same appliance in other states

Cutting the cost

Pick a moderate temperature and leave it there; chasing a colder room just runs the compressor harder for longer. Clean the filters often, and keep the outdoor unit clear of leaves and harsh afternoon sun so it can shed heat. In milder weather, try the "dry" or fan mode instead of full cooling, and close the curtains before the room has a chance to heat up.

Frequently asked questions

What does a split-system aircon cost per hour in SA?
$0.31 at the typical 750 W draw on SA's reference rate of 41.9c/kWh (SA Power Networks network). Efficient models run $0.19, high-draw models $0.63.
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 SA's 2026–27 reference rate — change the assumptions in the calculator above.
Is the tariff here what I actually pay?
It's the AER Default Market Offer 2026–27 (DMO 8) usage rate for the SA Power Networks network — the government reference. Your market offer may be a little under it; your zone may differ. See SA rates by zone.

Related

Sources — figures current as at 17 July 2026.

4–8 h/day in summer; inverter units modulate below their rated draw once the room is at temperature.