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

SA reference tariff · 41.9c/kWh

$0.50 per hour at 1,200 W

Typical use (6 h/day, 90 days a year at 1,200 W) ≈ $272/year on the SA Power Networks rate.

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

Portable aircon cost in SA at 6 h/day, 90 days/year (41.9c/kWh)
Model bandPer hourPer dayPer monthPer year
Efficient (700 W)$0.29$1.76$53.51$158
Typical (1,200 W)$0.50$3.02$91.73$272
High (2,000 W)$0.84$5.03$152.89$453

Appliance running-cost calculator

SA

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

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

$0.50 per hour · $272/year at your settings
Per day (6 h)
$3.02
Per month
$91.73
Per year (90 days)
$271.58

Tariff: 41.9c/kWh — AER Default Market Offer 2026–27 (DMO 8) for the SA Power Networks network, effective 1 July 2026. Wattage basis: Aircon Advice — portable AC running costs (AU). Full portable aircon costs in SA →

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 SA?
$0.50 at the typical 1,200 W draw on SA's reference rate of 41.9c/kWh (SA Power Networks network). Efficient models run $0.29, high-draw models $0.84.
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, usually one room in the evening; portables often run flat-out.