Through-the-wall air conditioner vs. mini split air conditioner: running cost
A through-the-wall air conditioner is cheaper to run: about $100 a year versus $110 for a mini split air conditioner at typical use and 17.99¢/kWh, a $10 difference.
| Through-the-wall air conditioner | Mini split air conditioner | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical watts | 950 W | 900 W |
| Watt range | 700–1,500 W | 300–2,500 W |
| Typical use | 8 hours a day for 4 months a year | 10 hours a day for 4 months a year |
| Energy per year | 557 kWh | 611 kWh |
| Cost per hour | 10¢ | 8.9¢ |
| Cost per day | 82¢ | 90¢ |
| Cost per month | $25.06 | $27.49 |
| Cost per year | $100 | $110 |
| Per year in Hawaii (43.51¢) | $242 | $266 |
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What drives the difference
- Through-the-wall air conditioner: Through-the-wall units and PTACs perform like window ACs but sit in a permanent sleeve. PTACs with electric heat strips use 2,500-3,500 W in heating mode.
- Mini split air conditioner: Inverter mini splits slow the compressor instead of cycling it off, so watts are average draw at rated capacity for a 20+ SEER single zone.
Ways to cut either cost
Uses roughly 40% less electricity for the same cooling and heats efficiently.
See options on AmazonStops winter drafts through the sleeve.
See options on AmazonLets you raise the set point about 4°F for 15-35 W.
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Frequently asked questions
Which costs more to run, a through-the-wall air conditioner or a mini split air conditioner?
At typical use and the U.S. average rate (17.99¢/kWh), a mini split air conditioner costs about $110 a year versus $100 for a through-the-wall air conditioner. That's $10 more.
How many watts do through-the-wall air conditioner and mini split air conditioner use?
A through-the-wall air conditioner typically draws 950 W (range 700–1,500 W). A mini split air conditioner draws 900 W (range 300–2,500 W). Watts alone don't decide cost. Hours of use, cycling and standby matter just as much.
Rates: EIA, 12 months ending 2026-07. Methodology.