It can be difficult to keep your home cool during hot seasons while trying to lower your energy bill. Should you invest in a new air conditioning unit? Is it cheaper to run a window air conditioner or central air? Many homeowners in Dallas ask these questions when trying to balance comfort and energy costs in a hot climate.
At Sherrell Air Conditioning & Heating, we understand the importance of choosing the right cooling system for your home. Factors like the size of your house, the size of your AC system, and how often you use it all play a role in determining which option saves you the most money.
Whether you’re considering several window units or a central air conditioning system to cool your entire home, our team provides expert guidance to help you stay cool and cost-efficient.
For the best air conditioning service in Dallas, look no further than Sherrell Air Conditioning & Heating. Call (972) 216-1961 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with a professional HVAC contractor today.
Factors that Impact the Cost of Running Window AC vs. Central Air
Several factors come into play when deciding between a window air conditioner and a central air conditioning system. From installation costs to energy efficiency, understanding what influences your energy bills can help you make the best choice for your home.
In this section, we’ll break down the key considerations to help you evaluate whether a window AC unit or a central air system is the most cost-effective solution for your cooling needs.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is one of the biggest factors affecting the cost of running any air conditioning system. Window air conditioners generally have lower SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings compared to modern central air conditioning units. While a single-window air conditioner may consume less energy than a central air conditioner, the difference becomes significant when you need multiple window units to cool the whole house.
On the other hand, modern central air conditioners are designed to provide consistent cooling across your entire home while being more energy-efficient overall. Choosing an Energy Star-rated system or using a programmable thermostat can help reduce energy usage, regardless of the type of system.
Size of the Home and Cooling Area
The size of your home plays a significant role in determining whether a window unit or central air unit is more cost-effective.
An average window unit might be a practical choice for cooling a single room or a small area. However, installing central air conditioning is usually the more efficient option if you need to cool multiple rooms. A central AC unit works with air ducts throughout the home to distribute cool air evenly, whereas multiple window units may struggle to provide the same cooling power.
A central air system offers better energy efficiency and convenience if you have a larger space or want to cool the entire house evenly.
Usage Patterns
The cost of your AC system is also affected by how often you use it. If you only need to cool your home during the summer months or when using just one room, an average window unit might save you money since it targets a smaller space.
However, homes in Dallas often need air conditioning throughout cold and hot seasons. A central AC system may be more practical because the weather fluctuates, and there are often several warm days in the cold seasons.
Installation and Maintenance Costs
The initial cost of installing a window air conditioner is significantly lower than installing a central air conditioning system. A single-window air conditioner is easy to set up, but costs can add up quickly if you need multiple units. It’s also important to note that window AC units may require more frequent servicing to keep them running efficiently.
In contrast, central AC installation in Dallas is more expensive because the system usually requires a condenser unit and updated air ducts. However, central AC systems generally require less frequent maintenance over time, especially if properly installed by a professional HVAC contractor.
Regular servicing and preventative maintenance by a qualified technician can help extend the life of both window air conditioners and central air systems, ensuring they remain energy-efficient and reliable for years to come.

How Do Window AC Units Work?
Window AC units draw warm air from a room, cool it, and then circulate the cool air back into the space. The unit is installed in a window or a wall opening, where it vents hot air outside while using a built-in compressor and refrigerant to cool the indoor air.
A single-window air conditioner typically has a fan that blows air over evaporator coils, where the heat is removed. The system also helps reduce humidity by condensing moisture from the air, which drains outside.
Before installing a window AC unit, it’s important to note that you will lose access to the window where the unit sits, which could be an issue if it is the only window in the room.
Do Window AC Units Use a Lot of Electricity?
Window AC units generally use less electricity than a central air conditioning system, especially if you’re cooling only one room or a small space. These units are designed to cool a limited area, so their energy usage is lower compared to a central air unit that cools the whole house. However, if you need to cool multiple rooms, you’ll likely need several window units, which can end up using more electricity than a central AC system.
The more units you have running at once, the higher your electric bill will be since each window air conditioner consumes energy separately. In that case, central AC might be more energy-efficient overall, as it cools multiple rooms with just one central air conditioner unit.
How Many Watts Does a Window AC Use?
- Window AC Unit: Uses 500–1,500 watts per hour, depending on the size and model. They are a good option if you’re looking to cool just one area and keep energy usage lower.
- Central Air Conditioning System: Uses 3,000–5,000 watts per hour. While they consume more energy, they are more efficient for larger homes or when cooling multiple rooms at once.

How Long Do Window AC Units Last?
A high-quality window unit typically lasts 10-15 years with professional installation and preventative HVAC maintenance. A properly installed window unit will operate more efficiently, avoiding unnecessary wear and tear. Regularly cleaning the filters, checking for debris, and scheduling professional maintenance can keep your air cooling system working well for years.
How Much Does a Window AC Unit Cost to Run?
The cost of running a window AC unit depends on its wattage, usage hours, and your local electricity rate. An average window unit uses around 500 to 1,500 watts, which translates to roughly $0.06-$0.88 per hour based on standard energy rates. If you run the unit 24 hours a day in Texas, your electricity bill could increase by about $70 per month.
How Does Central AC Work?
Central air conditioning systems cool your entire house by using air ducts to distribute cool air evenly. Warm air is drawn in, cooled by refrigerant in the evaporator coil, and circulated back into your home. The condenser unit, located outside on the ground floor, expels the hot air.
Many modern air conditioners can also heat your home. In cooling mode, the heat pump system absorbs heat from the inside and releases it outside. During colder months, the heat pump reverses, pulling warmth from the outdoor air and circulating it indoors.
Controlled by a thermostat, you can adjust the settings or manually switch between cooling and heating as needed.
How Long Do Central Air Conditioners Last?
A central air conditioner lasts an average of 15-20 years, but proper care can make a big difference. Professional installation, regular maintenance, and frequent AC tune-ups in Dallas can help keep your system running smoothly for years. Regularly replacing the micro-particle filters and checking refrigerant levels are also essential for keeping your central air conditioner working efficiently.
Is Central Air Cheaper Than Window Units?
If you’re cooling a small space, a window unit may help you save money on energy costs since it uses less electricity. However, running multiple window units to cool several rooms can end up costing more on your energy bill than using one central air conditioner, which is designed to cool larger spaces efficiently.
For long-term savings and consistent indoor air comfort, a central air conditioner is usually the better choice for larger homes.

How Much Does it Cost to Run a Central Air Conditioner?
During Dallas’ hot summers, running a central air conditioner can cost about $100 to $200 per month, using around 3,000 to 5,000 watts per hour to cool the entire house. A single-window unit, which uses 500 to 1,500 watts per hour, may cost around $70 per month. However, if you’re using multiple window AC units to cool several rooms, the total cost can quickly match or exceed that of a central AC system.
A smart thermostat or programmable thermostat can adjust the temperature based on your schedule to save energy and help reduce costs. Additionally, using the thermostat’s circulation setting allows air to circulate without running the cooling system constantly, helping you save money while staying cool during the summer.
Which System Is Right for You?
Deciding between a window AC unit and a central air conditioner depends on several factors, including your cooling needs, energy budget, and home layout.
If you only need to cool a single room or small space, a window unit might be a more affordable option in the short term. However, if you’re looking to cool your whole house, a central unit may be more cost-effective in the long run, especially with features like programmable thermostats to manage energy usage.
A professional HVAC contractor from our team can help evaluate your specific needs, including how often you’ll run the system and the size of the area you want to cool, to determine which option works best for you.
Pros and Cons of Window Air Conditioners
- Pros:
- Lower Initial Cost: Affordable to purchase and install.
- Easy Installation: Simple to install, uninstall, and move as needed.
- Cost-Effective: Ideal for cooling a single room or specific area.
- Temporary Solution: Perfect for renters or short-term cooling needs.
- Cons:
- Less Efficient for Multiple Rooms: Not ideal for cooling large areas or several rooms.
- Noise and Light Issues: Can be noisy and may block natural light when installed.
- Frequent Maintenance: Requires regular cleaning of filters and draining of condensation.
- Limited Effectiveness: May struggle in extreme heat or larger spaces.
Pros and Cons of Central Air Conditioning
- Pros:
- Efficient Whole-Home Cooling: Cools the entire house evenly through air vents and ducts.
- Consistent Temperature: Provides steady and reliable temperatures throughout your home in cold and hot seasons.
- Energy-Saving Features: Modern systems include smart thermostat features and home zoning options to help reduce energy usage.
- Quieter Operation: Central systems are quieter than window AC units, as the loudest components are located outside.
- Cons:
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- Higher Upfront Cost: Properly installing a central unit and ductwork involves a significant initial investment.
- Higher Energy Usage: Can consume more energy if the system isn’t well-maintained or the home lacks proper insulation.
- Less Cost-Effective for Small Areas: Not ideal if you only need to cool one or two rooms.
- Professional Maintenance Needed: Requires professional installation and regular servicing to keep it running efficiently.
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Get Professional Help from the Dallas HVAC Experts at Sherrell Air Conditioning and Heating Today!
Choosing between a window AC unit and a central air conditioner can feel overwhelming, but the right system depends on your specific cooling needs and budget. When it comes to choosing the right cooling solution for your home, the experts at Sherrell Air Conditioning & Heating are here for you.
Our skilled HVAC technicians help homeowners in Dallas and the surrounding areas find the best solution to stay comfortable year-round. Whether you need expert advice, installation, or maintenance services, our team is ready to answer the call.
Call (972) 216-1961 or contact us online to schedule an appointment with a professional HVAC contractor today!