The Real Cost of Using a Wall-Mounted Air Conditioner in Montreal During the Summer
In Montreal, summers can be sweltering, and more and more households are opting for a wall-mounted air conditioner to maintain optimal comfort in their homes. However, while the idea of cool air at your fingertips is tempting, the question that often comes up is: how much does it really cost to cool your home all summer with a wall-mounted air conditioner? In this article, we break down the costs associated with using a wall-mounted air conditioner in Montreal, considering the specifics of the devices, their energy consumption, as well as any surprises that might arise throughout the summer.
The Energy Consumption of Wall-Mounted Air Conditioners
A wall-mounted air conditioner is a practical and efficient solution to cool your space during the hottest months of the year. However, to determine the exact cost of using this type of unit, it’s crucial to understand its energy consumption and the impact it will have on your electricity bill.
Power and Consumption of Wall-Mounted Air Conditioners
Wall-mounted air conditioners are available in a range of powers, typically between 9,000 BTU (British Thermal Units) and 24,000 BTU. The higher the BTU capacity, the more energy the unit consumes to operate. On average, a wall-mounted air conditioner with a capacity of 12,000 to 18,000 BTU will consume between 1.0 and 1.5 kWh per hour when running at full power.
If you use your wall-mounted air conditioner for approximately 8 hours a day, considering summer temperatures ranging from 25 to 35°C, here’s an approximate calculation of the energy consumption for an 18,000 BTU air conditioner:
-
Consumption per hour: 1.2 kWh
-
Daily usage duration: 8 hours
-
Daily consumption: 1.2 kWh x 8 hours = 9.6 kWh
-
Monthly consumption (30 days): 9.6 kWh x 30 days = 288 kWh
The Cost of Energy in Montreal
In Montreal, the average cost of electricity is about $0.08 per kWh. Therefore, for one month of daily use (8 hours) of an 18,000 BTU wall-mounted air conditioner, here’s the estimated cost of electricity:
-
Daily cost: 9.6 kWh x $0.08 = $0.77 per day
-
Monthly cost: 288 kWh x $0.08 = $23.04 for one month
This calculation does not account for periods when the unit may operate in eco mode or be turned off during cooler days.
Hidden Costs and Other Factors to Consider
While electricity is the primary expense related to using a wall-mounted air conditioner, several other factors should be considered when estimating the total cost of operation.
1. The Cost of Installation
Installing a wall-mounted air conditioner requires a qualified professional, and this cost can vary based on several factors, such as the complexity of the installation, the type of model, and the layout of the home. For an 18,000 BTU unit, professional installation typically costs between $1,200 and $2,500, depending on the region and the brand selected.
2. Maintenance Costs
Wall-mounted air conditioners require regular maintenance to ensure they run efficiently and have a long lifespan. Common maintenance services include cleaning the filters, checking refrigerant levels, and cleaning the coils. At AirGreen, we recommend annual maintenance to keep your unit in good working order. The average cost of a maintenance visit is about $150 to $250 per year.
3. Performance Factors
Another factor to consider is the SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) of the wall-mounted air conditioner, which indicates its energy efficiency. The higher the SEER, the more efficient the unit is in terms of energy consumption. Modern units, such as those we install at AirGreen, feature SEER ratings of 20 or higher, meaning they consume less energy for the same performance. Therefore, a high-efficiency model can significantly reduce your operating costs over the long term.
4. Subsidies and Tax Credits
In Montreal and the province of Quebec, several subsidy programs are available to encourage the installation of energy-efficient air conditioners. For example, the LogisVert subsidy program offered by Hydro-Québec provides financial assistance for the installation of energy-efficient wall-mounted air conditioners. These subsidies can reduce the cost of installation by several hundred dollars, making it an appealing option for residents of Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, and surrounding areas.
The Total Cost of a Summer of Cooling in Montreal
Based on the previous calculations, it is possible to determine that an average summer of cooling with a wall-mounted air conditioner in Montreal might cost between $23 and $50 in electricity for one month, depending on the usage of the unit and its capacity. However, when factoring in installation and maintenance costs, the total cost of cooling during the summer season could range from $1,400 to $3,000 for the entire process, depending on the chosen model and associated services.
Conclusion: The Real Cost of Installing and Using a Wall-Mounted Air Conditioner in Montreal
While a wall-mounted air conditioner is an ideal option to keep your home cool during Montreal’s hot summer months, it’s important to consider all the costs associated with its installation and maintenance. With an annual estimate that includes installation, maintenance, and electricity consumption, the total cost of cooling a home in Montreal could range between $1,400 and $3,000. This will depend on the model you select, how often you use it, and any subsidies available.
At AirGreen, we are committed to providing high-performance cooling solutions and guiding you through the selection and installation of the wall-mounted air conditioner that best suits your needs. We offer complete services, from professional installation to regular maintenance, to ensure optimal performance of your wall-mounted air conditioner throughout the summer.