As winter settles across Perth, many homeowners hesitate before switching on their air conditioning for heating. The question isn’t just about comfort — it’s about cost. With rising electricity prices and growing awareness around energy efficiency, understanding how much it costs to run air conditioning in winter has become more important than ever. At Dacs Air Conditioning Perth, we regularly help homeowners optimise their systems for both comfort and cost savings. If you’re wondering whether using your air conditioner this winter will blow out your energy bills, here’s what you need to know.
How Much Does It Cost to Run Air Conditioning in Winter?
Running a reverse cycle air conditioner in winter in Perth typically costs between $0.25 to $0.60 per hour, depending on the system size, efficiency, and usage habits.
Reverse cycle systems are one of the most energy-efficient heating options available because they transfer heat rather than generate it. This means they can produce multiple units of heat energy for every unit of electricity consumed, making them significantly cheaper to run than traditional electric heaters.
What Affects the Cost of Running Your Air Conditioner?
Several factors influence how much you’ll pay to heat your home.
System size plays a major role. Larger systems consume more energy but may heat spaces faster and more efficiently when properly matched to the area.
Energy efficiency is another key factor. Modern systems with higher efficiency ratings require less power to achieve the same level of warmth.
Temperature settings also matter. Setting your thermostat too high increases energy consumption, while moderate settings provide comfort without unnecessary cost.
Home insulation and sealing can significantly impact running costs. Well-insulated homes retain heat better, reducing the workload on your system.
Reverse Cycle vs Other Heating Costs
When comparing heating options, reverse cycle air conditioning consistently offers better value.
Electric bar heaters are often the most expensive to run because they convert electricity directly into heat without efficiency gains.
Oil heaters are slightly more efficient but still consume significant energy over time.
Gas heaters can provide strong heat output, but ongoing fuel costs and ventilation requirements can make them less economical in the long run.
Reverse cycle systems stand out because they use energy more effectively, delivering greater heat output for less electricity.
How to Reduce Your Winter Energy Bills
Smart usage can make a noticeable difference to your energy costs.
Setting your thermostat between 18°C and 21°C provides a comfortable balance between warmth and efficiency. Each degree above this range can increase energy consumption significantly.
Using timers and programmable settings helps avoid unnecessary usage, especially when you’re not home.
Closing doors to unused rooms and using zoning features can prevent wasted energy.
Regular servicing ensures your system runs efficiently, reducing the amount of power needed to maintain comfortable temperatures.
The Hidden Cost of an Unserviced System
An air conditioner that hasn’t been serviced can quietly increase your energy bills.
Clogged filters restrict airflow, forcing the system to work harder. Dirty coils reduce heat transfer efficiency, meaning more energy is required to achieve the same result.
Worn components can also cause the system to run longer than necessary, increasing overall consumption.
In many cases, the cost of running an inefficient system outweighs the cost of a professional service.
Why Efficiency Matters More in Perth
Perth’s winter climate is relatively mild, which gives reverse cycle systems a major advantage.
Because temperatures rarely drop to extreme lows, these systems can operate at high efficiency levels throughout winter. This means lower running costs compared to colder regions where systems must work harder to extract heat.
However, this advantage only applies if your system is properly maintained and functioning as intended.
Is It Cheaper to Leave Your Air Conditioner Running?
This is a common question among homeowners.
In most cases, it is more efficient to maintain a steady temperature rather than turning the system on and off repeatedly. Frequent cycling forces the system to work harder to reheat the space, increasing energy usage.
However, this depends on your usage patterns. Using timers or smart controls can help strike the right balance between comfort and efficiency.
Should You Use Your Air Conditioner This Winter?
For most Perth households, the answer is yes.
Reverse cycle air conditioning offers one of the most cost-effective and efficient ways to heat your home. With the right settings, regular maintenance, and smart usage, it can provide consistent comfort without excessive energy costs.
Understanding how your system works — and how to optimise it — is the key to keeping both your home and your energy bills under control.
Final Word
Winter comfort doesn’t have to come with a financial sting.
At Dacs Air Conditioning Perth, we help homeowners maximise efficiency, reduce costs, and get the most out of their systems all year round. Whether it’s servicing, system optimisation, or advice tailored to your home, the right approach can make all the difference.
If you want to stay warm this winter without overpaying on energy, your air conditioner is already one of your best tools — it just needs to be used wisely.
FAQs
Is reverse cycle air conditioning cheaper than gas heating?
In many cases, yes. Reverse cycle systems are highly efficient and can be more cost-effective depending on usage and energy prices.
What temperature should I set my air conditioner in winter?
Between 18°C and 21°C is generally recommended for comfort and efficiency.
Does servicing reduce running costs?
Yes. A well-maintained system operates more efficiently and uses less energy.
How can I make my air conditioner more efficient?
Regular servicing, proper temperature settings, and good home insulation all improve efficiency.
Are newer air conditioners cheaper to run?
Yes. Modern systems are designed to be more energy efficient than older models.