Beat the Bills: 3 Star AC Power Consumption & Cost Guide
AC ServicingAC Servicing3 Star AC Power Consumption: Everything You Must Know Before Buying
One of the most important factors to consider when planning to purchase an air conditioner is its power consumption. Although 5-star air conditioners are famous for their high efficiency, many people in India choose to purchase a 3-star AC because it provides a good balance between price and performance.
If you are looking for honest information about 3 star AC power consumption, its running cost, and whether it is a good option to purchase, this article will help you make an informed decision.
What is the Significance of 3 Star Rating?
In India, air conditioners are star-rated by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), ranging from 1 star to 5 stars.
A 3-star air conditioner is moderately energy-efficient. It uses slightly more electricity than a 5-star air conditioner but less than a 1-star or 2-star air conditioner.
In simpler terms:
Higher Rating= Lower Electricity Bill
This means that a 3-star air conditioner uses more electricity than a 5-star air conditioner, but it is cheaper to buy.
3 Star AC Power Consumption Per Hour
The power consumption varies based on the tonnage, usage hours, room insulation, and whether it is an inverter or not. The approximate power consumption is as follows:
| AC Capacity | Average Power Consumption Per Hour | Monthly Units (8 hrs/day approx.) |
| 1 Ton 3 Star AC | 1.0 – 1.2 units | 240 – 290 units |
| 1.5 Ton 3 Star AC | 1.4 – 1.6 units | 330 – 380 units |
| 2 Ton 3 Star AC | 1.9 – 2.2 units | 450 – 520 units |
It is important to know that the actual power consumption may vary based on the brand, temperature setting, and room conditions.
3 Star AC Power Consumption of Different Tonnage Models
| AC Capacity | Power Consumption Per Hour | Room Size (Approximately) |
| 1 Ton | 1.0 – 1.2 units/hour | Up to 120 sq.ft. |
| 1.5 Ton | 1.4 – 1.6 units/hour | Up to 120- 180 sq. ft. |
| 2 Ton | 1.9 – 2.2 units/hour | Up to 180-300 sq. ft. |
| 2.5 Ton | 2.3 – 2.6 units/hour | Up to 300- 400 sq. ft. |
Selecting the correct tonnage is very crucial. A smaller AC will work continuously and will consume more power, whereas a larger AC will unnecessarily increase your electricity bill.
3 Star Split AC Power Consumption
A 3-star split AC consumes a little less power than a window AC of the same star rating and capacity.
Advantages:
- Improved cooling performance
- Less noise
- Contemporary design
- Comes with inverter technology
- Split ACs are best suited for bedrooms and living rooms where noise is a concern.
3 Star Window AC Power Consumption
A 3-star window AC is relatively cheaper but uses slightly higher power compared to split ACs.
Advantages:
- Less expensive to buy.
- Easy to install.
- Ideal for small-sized rooms.
- Less maintenance is required.
- For those on a tight budget, window ACs are still a good choice.
3 Star Inverter vs Non-Inverter AC.
First, you have to understand that Star rating and inverter are two different concepts, and having a good star rating but not using an inverter model are two different things:
3 Star Inverter AC
- Compressor speed varies.
- Regulates temperature consistently.
- Less electricity consumption in the long run.
- Less noise.
3 Star Non-Inverter AC
- Fixed compressor speed.
- Switches on and off frequently.
- Slightly higher power consumption.
- Less expensive to buy.
In reality, a 3-star inverter AC uses less power compared to a 3-star non-inverter AC, especially when used for more than 6-7 hours a day.
How Much Does It Cost to Use a 3 Star AC?
Let’s do a simple calculation:
If your electricity charge is ₹8 per unit and your 1.5 ton 3 star AC consumes 1.5 units per hour:
- 1.5 units × ₹8 = ₹12 per hour
- Running 8 hours a day = ₹96 per day
- Per month (30 days) ≈ ₹2,880
As compared to a 5-star AC, this can lead to an increase of ₹400-₹700 per month. And if you want specific calculations, you can use the NoBroker AC Electric Consumption Calculator to get calculations specific to your model.
Factors That Influence 3 Star AC Power Consumption
Even if you have an energy-efficient AC, it may consume more power if:
- You set the temperature below 20°C.
- Your room is not well-insulated.
- Your AC filters are dirty.
- The size of the AC is not appropriate for the room size.
- Your room receives direct sunlight.
To get the best efficiency, it is recommended that you set the temperature between 24°C and 26°C.
Is a 3 Star AC Worth the Purchase?
Yes, if:
- You use your AC for less than 6 hours a day.
- Your electricity tariff is moderate.
- You are looking for a lower initial cost.
- You live in a rented house.
- You use it seasonally.
Although the long-term savings are higher with a 5-star AC, a 3-star AC is a better buy if you use it for a short period of time.
Conclusion
Knowledge about the power consumption of 3 star AC power will enable you to take a decision whether to go for it or not. Though it consumes a little more power than the 5-star AC, its cheaper price will make it an attractive option for many Indian families.
If you have limited usage and are looking for a cheaper cooling option, then a 3-star AC will prove to be a wise and feasible option for you.
Other Energy-Saving AC Guides
Understand how your AC’s type, capacity, and rating affect power consumption. Our guides make it easy to select efficient cooling solutions. Check out our other popular guides for more insights.
3 Star AC Power Consumption: FAQs
1. How many units does a 3-star AC consume in 8 hours?
Ans- A 1-ton AC consumes 8-10 units, a 1.5-ton AC consumes 11-13 units, and a 2-ton AC consumes 15-18 units in 8 hours.
2. Is 3-star AC good for daily use?
Ans- Yes, especially for moderate usage of 4-6 hours a day.
3. Which consumes more power: 3-star or 5-star AC?
Ans- A 3-star AC consumes more power than a 5-star AC.
4. Does an inverter AC save electricity in 3-star AC models?
Ans- Yes, 3-star inverter ACs consume less power than non-inverter ACs.
5. How much can a 3 star AC increase the electricity bill every month?
Ans- It may increase the bill by ₹2,500 to ₹4,000, depending on the tonnage and usage hours.
6. Is 3 star AC good for Indian summers?
Ans- Yes, but only if you choose the right tonnage according to your room size.
7. How to calculate the power consumption of a 3 star AC?
Ans- Multiply the kW rating of the AC by the number of usage hours.
Example: 1.5 kW × 8 hours = 12 units per day.
8. Is 3 star AC cheaper than 5 star AC?
Ans- Yes, the initial purchase price of a 3 star AC is lower.
9. Does running the AC at 24°C help cut down power consumption?
Ans- Yes, keeping it at 24-26°C is more efficient.
10. Is 3 star AC suitable for rental properties?
Ans- Yes, it is economical and perfect for short-term rentals.