Cost to run a split-system air conditioner (cooling) in Western Australia (2026–27)
WA reference tariff · 33.3c/kWh
Typical use (6 h/day, 90 days a year at 750 W) ≈ $135/year on the Western Power (SWIS) rate.
Source: WA Government Standard Electricity Prices 2026–27 (Synergy Home Plan A1), effective 1 July 2026
| Model band | Per hour | Per day | Per month | Per year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Efficient (450 W) | $0.15 | $0.90 | $27.30 | $81 |
| Typical (750 W) | $0.25 | $1.50 | $45.50 | $135 |
| High (1,500 W) | $0.50 | $2.99 | $91.01 | $269 |
Appliance running-cost calculator
WASplit-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.
- Per day (6 h)
- $1.50
- Per month
- $45.50
- Per year (90 days)
- $134.71
Tariff: 33.3c/kWh — WA Government Standard Electricity Prices 2026–27 (Synergy Home Plan A1) for the Western Power (SWIS) network, effective 1 July 2026. Wattage basis: Daikin Cora specifications (via Wholesale Aircon). Full split-system aircon costs in WA →
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 WA?
- $0.25 at the typical 750 W draw on WA's reference rate of 33.3c/kWh (Western Power (SWIS) network). Efficient models run $0.15, high-draw models $0.50.
- 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 WA's 2026–27 reference rate — change the assumptions in the calculator above.
- Is the tariff here what I actually pay?
- It's the WA Government Standard Electricity Prices 2026–27 (Synergy Home Plan A1) usage rate for the Western Power (SWIS) network — the government reference. Your market offer may be a little under it; your zone may differ. See WA rates by zone.
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4–8 h/day in summer; inverter units modulate below their rated draw once the room is at temperature.