Is it cheaper to run a window air conditioner or central air?

Running a window air conditioner to cool a small room often costs less than $4 per day, making it cheaper than central air for single-room cooling. However, central air might be more efficient if you're using multiple window units or need to cool a space larger than 1,000 square feet. Choosing the right size AC is crucial—a unit that's too big or small can waste energy and increase costs.

Do window AC units use a lot of electricity?

Window AC units can use a significant amount of energy. These units use about 12 to 17 kilowatt-hours per day, significantly more than a refrigerator's one to 1.5 kilowatt-hours per day. To keep your energy costs down, run your window AC only when necessary, keep doors closed to contain the cool air, regularly clean filters and coils, and seal any gaps around the unit to prevent cold air from escaping.

Are cheap window air conditioners worth it?

Inexpensive air conditioner units are often not worth it. Low-cost products from popular brands like General Electric, LG, Whirlpool, or Frigidaire may be a reasonable investment. However, putting a small, budget-friendly unit in a large room wastes energy and shortens the life span of the AC since it has to draw more power and work much harder to cool the space. The unit will consume more energy and stress the motor and other internal parts, resulting in early breakdown and costly repairs.

How can I get the best price on window AC units?

The best deals on window AC units come during the fall when businesses slash prices to clear out old inventory. You can also speak with your local AC installer, who may get you a good deal on a window AC unit since they have access to trade pricing. You can also watch for discontinued products and flash sales in your area.

How much does it cost to repair a window AC?

Window AC repair costs between $110 and $390, with most people paying around $250. Parts cost between $2 and $150, with the rest going toward labor, at around $30 per hour. The occasional one-off repair or a routine AC tuneup cost $75 to $200. Servicing can keep your AC running in good condition for several more years before you need to pay for a replacement unit.

How long does a window AC unit last?

Window AC units last eight to 10 years when installed and maintained correctly. High-quality models last up to 20 years with proper care and routine maintenance. The unit’s longevity depends on its construction quality, regular cleaning, and electrical safety inspections. Keeping the filters and coils clean and addressing minor repairs promptly extends its effective performance and ensures reliable cooling.

Top-Rated Window A/C Unit Installations Experts in Huntersville, NC

R.A.E Heating & Cooling LLC

R.A.E Heating & Cooling LLC

Customers say: Quick response

12 local quotes requested

1 years of experience

R.A.E Heating & Cooling LLC has been in business since 2024 with over 12 years of experience! We specialize in all your home heating and air conditioning needs, and guarantee you a job well done! Whether it be your furnace that needs to be repaired, or an air conditioner that needs serviced, we are your guys! We strive to exceed the homeowner's expectations each and every time, and get the job done the way you want it. We work in a timely fashion and always pay attention to detail. Proudly serving Charlotte and surrounding areas. Call today!

"The work got done in a timely manner and the service it self was less costly then other companies."

Maryuri A on November 2024

R.A.E Heating & Cooling LLC has been in business since 2024 with over 12 years of experience! We specialize in all your home heating and air conditioning needs, and guarantee you a job well done! Whether it be your furnace that needs to be repaired, or an air conditioner that needs serviced, we are your guys! We strive to exceed the homeowner's expectations each and every time, and get the job done the way you want it. We work in a timely fashion and always pay attention to detail. Proudly serving Charlotte and surrounding areas. Call today!

"The work got done in a timely manner and the service it self was less costly then other companies."

Maryuri A on November 2024

Blaq & Handy

3116 Grierton Court Apt 7

3116 Grierton Court Apt 7

Customers say: Terrific value

4 years of experience

Free onsite estimate

Blaq & Handy is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade, combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.

"What a great experience I had with this company. Great work, communication, and always on time. I am really happy with the final result. Very professional and knowledgeable. Highly recommended. Thank you for all the hard work. Will definitely use them for any project around my home."

Sam A on June 2025

Blaq & Handy is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade, combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.

"What a great experience I had with this company. Great work, communication, and always on time. I am really happy with the final result. Very professional and knowledgeable. Highly recommended. Thank you for all the hard work. Will definitely use them for any project around my home."

Sam A on June 2025

PPR Mechanical, LLC

4087 Counselors Drive

4087 Counselors Drive

4 years of experience

Free onsite estimate

With over 8 years if experience we take great pride in the expertise, quality, and customer focused nature of our cleaning services. It is our mission to provide excellent workmanship and complete customer satisfaction, from the start to the completion of a project. In order to understand the needs and expectations of our customers, we take great care to communicate with every client in a professional and timely manner. Our reputation is based on service, safety, and quality, regardless of how large or small the job.

David Home Repair

9416 Lake Spring Avenue

4.67(

12

)

•

Approved Pro

David Home Repair

9416 Lake Spring Avenue

4.67(

12

)

•

Approved Pro

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 91% of Angi customers

Recommended by 91% of HomeAdvisor customers

1071 local quotes requested

David’s home Repair is a company that works on repairing or remodeling just about anything. We do Plumbing, electricity, framing, painting, pressure washing house, gutter cleaning, flooring, kitchen/bathroom remodel and more. Give us a call at (704) 421 1327 for a free estimate

"We hired David to install grab bars in our shower because I was uncomortable installing the bars on the travertine tile in our shower. David responded quickly to my call. we discussed the project and sheduled the work. He arrived on time, evaluated the job, and completed the work in under 90 minutes. He left the work area clearn. Very happy with results."

Dave S on June 2025

David’s home Repair is a company that works on repairing or remodeling just about anything. We do Plumbing, electricity, framing, painting, pressure washing house, gutter cleaning, flooring, kitchen/bathroom remodel and more. Give us a call at (704) 421 1327 for a free estimate

"We hired David to install grab bars in our shower because I was uncomortable installing the bars on the travertine tile in our shower. David responded quickly to my call. we discussed the project and sheduled the work. He arrived on time, evaluated the job, and completed the work in under 90 minutes. He left the work area clearn. Very happy with results."

Dave S on June 2025

Acosta Heating, Cooling & Electrical

3915 Stuart Andrew Blvd

4.44(

452

)

•

Approved Pro

Acosta Heating, Cooling & Electrical

3915 Stuart Andrew Blvd

4.44(

452

)

•

Approved Pro

Customers say: Super punctual

1214 local quotes requested

53 years of experience

Trusted services for HVAC and electrical in Charlotte, NC, can always be found here with Acosta Heating, Cooling & Electrical. Our storied history stretches back to our start in 1972, and we are proud to be a family-owned company that has stood the test of time.

"It was fantastic. When the technician arrived, he gave me an agenda on what will happen during their visit. They kept me updated throughout and were able to fix our issue. Will use again."

Mike G on February 2025

Trusted services for HVAC and electrical in Charlotte, NC, can always be found here with Acosta Heating, Cooling & Electrical. Our storied history stretches back to our start in 1972, and we are proud to be a family-owned company that has stood the test of time.

"It was fantastic. When the technician arrived, he gave me an agenda on what will happen during their visit. They kept me updated throughout and were able to fix our issue. Will use again."

Mike G on February 2025

A HELPING HAND CONSTRUCTION

400 Karen Ave Se

4.93(

29

)

•

Approved Pro

A HELPING HAND CONSTRUCTION

400 Karen Ave Se

4.93(

29

)

•

Approved Pro

Customers say: True professional

Recommended by 96% of Angi customers

Recommended by 96% of HomeAdvisor customers

343 local quotes requested

A Helping Hand Construction is a local home improvements company owned and operated by JC Chapman, bonded and insured company, (as of 2015 folks in my line of work have not been required to carry a business license, I am sorry to say). A company 22 years in the making, here to help you with nearly every need you may have. Handyman work, bathrooms and kitchens, custom work flooring, trim , paint, sheet rock, light plumbing, electrical, appliance installations

"It went great. The handyman was a very professional and friendly man. He did a great job putting the cabinet together and then putting it in place. It looks very good. If I need anything else I would want him work on it. He is very talented in the work he does. Thank you"

Martha I on March 2025

A Helping Hand Construction is a local home improvements company owned and operated by JC Chapman, bonded and insured company, (as of 2015 folks in my line of work have not been required to carry a business license, I am sorry to say). A company 22 years in the making, here to help you with nearly every need you may have. Handyman work, bathrooms and kitchens, custom work flooring, trim , paint, sheet rock, light plumbing, electrical, appliance installations

"It went great. The handyman was a very professional and friendly man. He did a great job putting the cabinet together and then putting it in place. It looks very good. If I need anything else I would want him work on it. He is very talented in the work he does. Thank you"

Martha I on March 2025

H L Bowman

2259 Woodlawn St

4.72(

385

)

•

Approved Pro

H L Bowman

2259 Woodlawn St

4.72(

385

)

•

Approved Pro

Customers say: Super punctual

Recommended by 90% of Angi customers

Recommended by 90% of HomeAdvisor customers

4374 local quotes requested

HL Bowman has been in the same location for 38 years and owned by the same family for over 65 years. HL Bowman is a non commission based company. HL Bowman employees will never upsell you a product you don't need. Dennis and Bryan Enders and his family have deep roots in the Harrisburg community. After 65 years Dennis and family stay committed to giving the community the best possible service and product to fit their needs. HL Bowman has won Angie's List super service award every year.

"Adding to the above review: NEGATIVE STARS 1. The Daikon' ductless mini-split' unit, sold to me by Brian Enders and installed by H.L. Bowman Incorporated, unleashed a deluge that not only saturated the hardwood floor in my dining room but also flowed onto bookshelves and drawers in the room below, drenching 25 family photo albums. 2. The water pooled atop and between each section of my quarter-sawn oak Stickley barrister bookcase. 3. The water seeped inside each section of the bookcase. 4. The water ran onto particularly important and expensive books, framed photographs, as well as four small wooden boxes containing four of my dog's cremains. 5. In past years, water from a second-floor unit emitted sufficient water to cause a 12' by 5' section of the upstairs floor to crash through to the main floor. All furniture and items in that 12' by 5' section were so water-damaged that they had to be discarded. Water ran behind the plaster and into the wiring contained within the plaster walls. I had to make an insurance claim to have that water damage repaired. 6. In past years, water from a basement unit emitted sufficient water to cause an entire wall of built-in cabinetry to be destroyed and have to be replaced. I had to make an insurance claim to have that water damage repaired. 7. In past years, four of the six "ductless mini-split" units have simply not worked. They do not cool. They do not heat. They hang on the wall and blink. 8. Throughout these years of destruction, distress, and financial duress caused by the six 'ductless mini-splits,' Brian Enders has consistently refused to rectify the problem. 9. The FIRST REASON Brian Enders uses to refuse to rectify the problem: When the ceiling caved in from the upstairs unit and the cabinetry was ruined by the downstairs unit, Brian Enders offered substandard assistance. He sent a contractor to my home to spackle over water-damaged plaster, thus sealing water inside the walls. When I saw the inferior repairs Enders offered, I stated that I was going to call my lawyer. Enders said that because I had threatened legal action, his company would no longer serve me. 10. The SECOND REASON Brian Enders gives for refusing to rectify the problems: When the ceiling caved in from the upstairs unit and the cabinetry was ruined by the downstairs unit and Brian Enders offered substandard assistance, I wrote bad reviews of Brian Enders and his company "all over the internet." (Enders words.) Yes. I did, indeed, write bad reviews of Brian Enders and his company, H. L. Bowman, Incorporated, "all over the internet" and will continue to do so until Brian Enders and his company, H. L. Bowman, Incorporated, make the six Daikon "mini-split" units they installed in my home work properly. 11. Because Brian Enders and his company, refuse to help me, I have paid five other companies, & one private contractor, to come to my home to diagnose and repair the six Daikon "ductless mini-split" units. Each one has been unable to do so. Each one says that there is something so faulty about these units &/or the installation of these units that it is impossible to determine what is actually wrong with them. 12. On Saturday, June 22, 2024, I tried to set up a service call with H.L Bowman, Incorporated, using a form on their website. 13. On Saturday, June 22, 2024, I received a text from H.L. Bowman confirming an appointment for Monday, June 24, 2024, with a note relating that on the day of the service, I would receive a call 30 minutes before the technician arrived. 14. On Monday, June 24, 2024, I instead received a phone call from H.L. Bowman informing me that they are too busy serving their VIP customers to send a technician out to serve me. Today is Tuesday, June 24, 2025. H.L. Bowman has still not rectified their financial and material injury to me."

Faith M on June 2025

HL Bowman has been in the same location for 38 years and owned by the same family for over 65 years. HL Bowman is a non commission based company. HL Bowman employees will never upsell you a product you don't need. Dennis and Bryan Enders and his family have deep roots in the Harrisburg community. After 65 years Dennis and family stay committed to giving the community the best possible service and product to fit their needs. HL Bowman has won Angie's List super service award every year.

"Adding to the above review: NEGATIVE STARS 1. The Daikon' ductless mini-split' unit, sold to me by Brian Enders and installed by H.L. Bowman Incorporated, unleashed a deluge that not only saturated the hardwood floor in my dining room but also flowed onto bookshelves and drawers in the room below, drenching 25 family photo albums. 2. The water pooled atop and between each section of my quarter-sawn oak Stickley barrister bookcase. 3. The water seeped inside each section of the bookcase. 4. The water ran onto particularly important and expensive books, framed photographs, as well as four small wooden boxes containing four of my dog's cremains. 5. In past years, water from a second-floor unit emitted sufficient water to cause a 12' by 5' section of the upstairs floor to crash through to the main floor. All furniture and items in that 12' by 5' section were so water-damaged that they had to be discarded. Water ran behind the plaster and into the wiring contained within the plaster walls. I had to make an insurance claim to have that water damage repaired. 6. In past years, water from a basement unit emitted sufficient water to cause an entire wall of built-in cabinetry to be destroyed and have to be replaced. I had to make an insurance claim to have that water damage repaired. 7. In past years, four of the six "ductless mini-split" units have simply not worked. They do not cool. They do not heat. They hang on the wall and blink. 8. Throughout these years of destruction, distress, and financial duress caused by the six 'ductless mini-splits,' Brian Enders has consistently refused to rectify the problem. 9. The FIRST REASON Brian Enders uses to refuse to rectify the problem: When the ceiling caved in from the upstairs unit and the cabinetry was ruined by the downstairs unit, Brian Enders offered substandard assistance. He sent a contractor to my home to spackle over water-damaged plaster, thus sealing water inside the walls. When I saw the inferior repairs Enders offered, I stated that I was going to call my lawyer. Enders said that because I had threatened legal action, his company would no longer serve me. 10. The SECOND REASON Brian Enders gives for refusing to rectify the problems: When the ceiling caved in from the upstairs unit and the cabinetry was ruined by the downstairs unit and Brian Enders offered substandard assistance, I wrote bad reviews of Brian Enders and his company "all over the internet." (Enders words.) Yes. I did, indeed, write bad reviews of Brian Enders and his company, H. L. Bowman, Incorporated, "all over the internet" and will continue to do so until Brian Enders and his company, H. L. Bowman, Incorporated, make the six Daikon "mini-split" units they installed in my home work properly. 11. Because Brian Enders and his company, refuse to help me, I have paid five other companies, & one private contractor, to come to my home to diagnose and repair the six Daikon "ductless mini-split" units. Each one has been unable to do so. Each one says that there is something so faulty about these units &/or the installation of these units that it is impossible to determine what is actually wrong with them. 12. On Saturday, June 22, 2024, I tried to set up a service call with H.L Bowman, Incorporated, using a form on their website. 13. On Saturday, June 22, 2024, I received a text from H.L. Bowman confirming an appointment for Monday, June 24, 2024, with a note relating that on the day of the service, I would receive a call 30 minutes before the technician arrived. 14. On Monday, June 24, 2024, I instead received a phone call from H.L. Bowman informing me that they are too busy serving their VIP customers to send a technician out to serve me. Today is Tuesday, June 24, 2025. H.L. Bowman has still not rectified their financial and material injury to me."

Faith M on June 2025

Swaggard Handyman Services

5.00(

10

)

•

Approved Pro

Swaggard Handyman Services

5.00(

10

)

•

Approved Pro

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers

5 years of experience

Swaggard Handyman Services, we believe that every customer deserves the best. With 30 years of expertise combined in the handyman industry, we are committed to providing top-notch services that exceed your expectations. Our unique approach combines innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction to deliver exceptional results every time. What Makes Us Unique! Our team is comprised of highly skilled professionals with extensive experience in all aspects of handyman services. We stay ahead of the curve by continually updating our knowledge and skills.

"Very good and thoughtful"

James M on May 2025

Swaggard Handyman Services, we believe that every customer deserves the best. With 30 years of expertise combined in the handyman industry, we are committed to providing top-notch services that exceed your expectations. Our unique approach combines innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction to deliver exceptional results every time. What Makes Us Unique! Our team is comprised of highly skilled professionals with extensive experience in all aspects of handyman services. We stay ahead of the curve by continually updating our knowledge and skills.

"Very good and thoughtful"

James M on May 2025

Jose Santos Landscaping

-

4.79(

24

)

•

Approved Pro

Jose Santos Landscaping

-

4.79(

24

)

•

Approved Pro

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 95% of Angi customers

Recommended by 95% of HomeAdvisor customers

1215 local quotes requested

Jose Santos Landscaping is a full-service landscaping company that provides high-quality landscaping services to homeowners and businesses in the Charlotte, NC area. We specialize in landscape design, installation, maintenance, and repair, and we are committed to providing quality workmanship and customer service. We offer a wide range of landscaping services, including lawn care, landscape design, planting, and irrigation. We also offer a variety of landscaping materials and accessories, so we can provide the perfect solution for every project. If you need quality landscaping services in the Charlotte, NC area, call Jose Santos Landscaping today! We serve in Charlotte, NC, Stallings Town NC; Sandy Ridge Township NC; Waxhaw Town NC; Harrisburg Town NC; Weddington Town NC and the surrounding areas. Landscaping Contractor, Lawn Care, Reliable Landscaping Service, Quality Landscaping Service, Affordable Lawn Care Service Landscaping, Landscaping Company, Lawn Care Service, Affordable Lawn Care, Lawn Care Company, Trimming Trees, Lawn Care, Patios, House Cleaning, Tile, Pressure Washing, Affordable Landscaping, Reputable Landscaping For more information visit our website: https://josesantoslandscapingnc.com/ We also accept the following payment methods: Cash

"Jose, provided great service and completed my project on time. He is very professional and take great pride in his work. Looking forward to retaining Jose again for several other projects on my lists."

Darrell H on May 2025

Jose Santos Landscaping is a full-service landscaping company that provides high-quality landscaping services to homeowners and businesses in the Charlotte, NC area. We specialize in landscape design, installation, maintenance, and repair, and we are committed to providing quality workmanship and customer service. We offer a wide range of landscaping services, including lawn care, landscape design, planting, and irrigation. We also offer a variety of landscaping materials and accessories, so we can provide the perfect solution for every project. If you need quality landscaping services in the Charlotte, NC area, call Jose Santos Landscaping today! We serve in Charlotte, NC, Stallings Town NC; Sandy Ridge Township NC; Waxhaw Town NC; Harrisburg Town NC; Weddington Town NC and the surrounding areas. Landscaping Contractor, Lawn Care, Reliable Landscaping Service, Quality Landscaping Service, Affordable Lawn Care Service Landscaping, Landscaping Company, Lawn Care Service, Affordable Lawn Care, Lawn Care Company, Trimming Trees, Lawn Care, Patios, House Cleaning, Tile, Pressure Washing, Affordable Landscaping, Reputable Landscaping For more information visit our website: https://josesantoslandscapingnc.com/ We also accept the following payment methods: Cash

"Jose, provided great service and completed my project on time. He is very professional and take great pride in his work. Looking forward to retaining Jose again for several other projects on my lists."

Darrell H on May 2025

R4 Handyman USA

2784 Golf Ball Cir

4.83(

12

)

•

Approved Pro

R4 Handyman USA

2784 Golf Ball Cir

4.83(

12

)

•

Approved Pro

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers

828 local quotes requested

Family-owned business with over 16 years of experience handling all your Handyman needs. R4 Handyman USA is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests and make their concerns the basis of our business.

"Mainly well. Had to run to the store during the service because the replacements were not the right fixtures. Gave him 40% tip because of all the extra time… he did discover a duct filter in the MB so small (12 x 12 x 1) that it hadn’t been replaced since construction > 10 years ago"

Rudy S on March 2025

Family-owned business with over 16 years of experience handling all your Handyman needs. R4 Handyman USA is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests and make their concerns the basis of our business.

"Mainly well. Had to run to the store during the service because the replacements were not the right fixtures. Gave him 40% tip because of all the extra time… he did discover a duct filter in the MB so small (12 x 12 x 1) that it hadn’t been replaced since construction > 10 years ago"

Rudy S on March 2025