Cost to run a central air conditioner in Washington

$0.51/hour

Central Air Conditioner at 3,500 W in Washington (14.63¢/kWh) · $124.53/month at 8 h/day

By hours of use

Use	Per day	Per month	Per year
1 h/day	$0.51	$15.57	$186.90
2 h/day	$1.02	$31.13	$373.80
4 h/day	$2.05	$62.27	$747.59
8 h/day	$4.10	$124.53	$1,495.19
12 h/day	$6.14	$186.80	$2,242.78
24 h/day	$12.29	$373.59	$4,485.56

A 3-ton central AC typically draws 3,000-4,000 W while running; SEER rating and duct losses matter.

How much does it cost to run a central air conditioner in Washington?

At 3,500 W and 14.63¢/kWh: $0.51 per hour, $4.10 per day and $124.53 per month at 8 h/day.

How does Washington compare with other states?

The same use costs $108.27/month in Nevada (cheapest) and $401.60/month in Hawaii (most expensive); the US average is $154.58.

Price: EIA Electric Power Monthly, Table 5.6.A (residential, August 2026 preliminary; released October 23, 2026).

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