Know All About Air Cooler Power Consumption

Learn about air cooler power consumption to save on electricity bills. If you are looking to buy one, get yours on Easy EMIs with Bajaj Finserv.
Explore Air Coolers
3 min
19-January-2026 

Air coolers provide an effective and energy-efficient solution for beating the heat. Using evaporative cooling technology, they draw warm air through water-soaked pads, reducing the temperature and releasing a refreshing breeze. Ideal for dry climates, air coolers are easy to maintain, environmentally friendly, and cost significantly less to operate than air conditioners, making them a smart choice for cooling your home or office.

With Bajaj Finserv, you can bring home your favourite electronics and appliances without exhausting your savings. Visit any of the 1.5 lakh partner stores across 4,000 cities in India, choose your preferred model, and use an Easy EMI Loan of up to Rs. 5 lakh. Convert the cost into Easy EMIs that suit your monthly budget, enjoy zero down payment on select models, and check your loan eligibility online in minutes before stepping into the store.

Overview of how an air cooler works

An air cooler is a highly efficient and eco friendly device designed to provide cooling during hot weather. It operates on the principle of evaporative cooling, where hot air is drawn into the cooler and passed through water-saturated cooling pads. The evaporation of water lowers the air temperature, and this cool, moist air is then circulated into the room, creating a comfortable environment. Unlike air conditioners, air coolers consume significantly less electricity, making them a cost-effective solution.

Types of air coolers – power consumption, water usage, and more

Desert coolers: Ideal for large spaces, these coolers offer a high cooling capacity suitable for extensive areas. They require a significant amount of water to function effectively, making them less ideal for regions with water scarcity. For instance, the Havells air cooler is a popular choice among desert coolers, known for its powerful cooling and energy efficiency.

  • Personal coolers: Designed for smaller rooms, personal coolers consume less power and water. They are perfect for individual use and provide an economical cooling solution without compromising efficiency.
  • Tower coolers: With their sleek and compact design, tower coolers offer efficient cooling while saving space. They are ideal for modern interiors where space is at a premium, providing a balance between aesthetics and functionality.
  • Wall-hanging air cooler: A wall hanging air cooler type of cooler offers a compact solution with effective cooling, making it perfect for smaller spaces or rooms with limited floor space. Its design ensures that it does not take up valuable living space.

How to calculate air cooler power consumption

Knowing how much electricity an air cooler uses helps you plan energy costs and choose a model that suits your daily cooling needs.

  • Check the power rating
    Look at the watt value mentioned on the product label. This shows how much electricity the air cooler uses per hour.
  • Estimate daily usage hours
    Multiply the watt rating by the number of hours you use the air cooler each day to find daily consumption.
  • Convert watts into kilowatt hours
    Divide the total watts used by one thousand. This gives the energy used in kilowatt hours.
  • Calculate monthly electricity use
    Multiply daily kilowatt hours by thirty. This shows your approximate monthly power consumption.
  • Estimate electricity cost
    Multiply monthly kilowatt hours by your local electricity tariff to find the running cost.

Energy saving features in modern air coolers

Modern air coolers now come with smart features that reduce power use and improve cooling comfort for everyday home use.

  • High efficiency cooling pads
    These pads absorb more water and improve cooling. They help deliver cool air using less electricity.
  • Variable speed control
    Multiple speed settings allow you to adjust cooling as needed. Lower speeds consume less power.
  • Inverter compatible operation
    Many air coolers work well with home inverters. This ensures cooling even during power cuts.
  • Low wattage motors
    Energy efficient motors reduce electricity use. They deliver steady airflow with lower power consumption.
  • Auto shut off and timers
    Timers turn the cooler off after a set time. This prevents unnecessary power usage during sleep or absence.

Pro tips for saving the power of air coolers

  • Ensure proper ventilation: Proper ventilation in the room enhances air circulation and improves cooling performance. This simple step can significantly boost the efficiency of your air cooler.
  • Clean the cooling pads regularly: Regular cleaning of the cooling pads prevents dust buildup, which can reduce the cooler's efficiency. Clean pads ensure optimal airflow and better cooling.
  • Use cold water or ice: Adding cold water or ice to the water tank can improve the cooling effect without increasing power consumption. This method is particularly useful during extremely hot weather.
  • Adjust fan speed and thermostat settings: Optimising the fan speed and thermostat settings can help save energy. Lowering the fan speed during cooler parts of the day can reduce power usage.
  • Explore advanced features: Some coolers come with advanced features designed to enhance efficiency and reduce power consumption. Investing in such coolers can lead to long-term energy savings.

You can also explore this list of iron coolers when making a choice regarding which cooler to buy.

5 factors to determine your air cooler’s power consumption as per your need

  • Room size: The size of the room is crucial in determining the power consumption of the cooler. Larger spaces require more powerful coolers, which consume more energy.
  • Type of cooling pads: The efficiency and energy use of an air cooler are influenced by the type of cooling pads used. Honeycomb pads are generally more efficient compared to wood wool pads.
  • Water tank capacity: A larger water tank reduces the frequency of refills but may consume more power. It is important to balance tank size with power efficiency to meet your cooling needs.
  • Additional features: Features such as multiple fan speeds, oscillation, and remote control can impact energy consumption. Choosing the right combination of features can optimise performance and energy use.
  • Build quality and brand reputation: The overall performance and power efficiency of an air cooler are influenced by its build quality and brand reputation. High-quality brands often offer better energy-efficient models, which is known for its versatility and low power consumption

You can also explore portable air coolers for compact options.

You can now make your purchase even more affordable. Bring down the cost of electronics and appliances by combining brand discounts, dealer offers, and EMI deals—all in one place. Calculate your extra savings instantly and shop smarter today.

Air cooler vs air conditioner power consumption

Feature

Air cooler

Air conditioner

Typical power usage

Uses around 100 to 200 watts for regular home cooling.

Uses around 1000 to 2000 watts depending on tonnage and Star rating.

Electricity cost

Low running cost. Suitable for long daily use.

Higher running cost. Best for controlled usage hours.

Cooling method

Uses water evaporation to cool air naturally.

Uses refrigerant and compressor based cooling.

Room suitability

Works well in dry climates and ventilated rooms.

Works well in all climates and closed rooms.

Energy efficiency

Very energy efficient for basic cooling needs.

Energy efficient only in 4 Star and 5 Star models.


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  • Explore products on Bajaj Mall: Browse a wide range of electronics and appliances from trusted brands. Compare features like energy ratings, storage capacity, performance settings, and design to choose the right product for your home.
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  • Check your loan eligibility online: Plan better by checking your loan eligibility in minutes. Simply enter your mobile number and OTP to know your loan limit.
  • Use the EMI Network Card for purchases up to Rs. 3 lakh: Already own the Bajaj Finserv EMI Network Card? Use it for instant, paperless checkout and convert your purchases of up to Rs. 3 lakh into Easy EMIs.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I get an air cooler on EMI?

Yes, you can easily upgrade to a new air cooler with Bajaj Finserv’s Easy EMI options. Whether you already have the EMI Network Card or are new to it, here is how you can get started:

If you have the Bajaj Finserv EMI Network Card:
• Explore air coolers on Bajaj Mall: Choose from top brands offering models with powerful air throw, large water tank capacity, and energy-efficient performance.
• Visit a partner store: Check out the latest air coolers in person at any of 1.5 lakh partner stores across 4,000 cities.
• Use your EMI Network Card at checkout: Convert the total cost into Easy EMIs that fit your monthly budget.
• Zero down payment on select models: Bring home your air cooler without paying anything upfront.

If you do not have an EMI Network Card:
Check your Insta EMI Card eligibility online using your mobile number and OTP. If eligible, you can apply instantly and start shopping for your favourite air cooler easily and affordably.

Do air coolers use a lot of electricity?
Air coolers are known for their energy efficiency and typically consume significantly less electricity compared to air conditioners. The exact power usage depends on the model and size, but on average, an air cooler uses about 100300 watts, whereas an air conditioner can use up to 2000 watts. This makes air coolers a more economical choice for cooling, especially in areas with high electricity costs.

Is an air cooler better than an AC?
Choosing between an air cooler and an air conditioner depends on your specific needs and environmental conditions. Air coolers are more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly, making them ideal for dry climates. They are also more cost effective in terms of both initial purchase and ongoing operational costs. However, air conditioners provide more powerful cooling and are better suited for extremely hot and humid environments.

How much will the bill come for a cooler?
The electricity bill for running an air cooler is relatively low compared to an air conditioner. On average, if an air cooler runs for 8 hours a day, the monthly electricity consumption would be around 2472 kWh. Depending on your local electricity rates, this can translate to a modest increase in your monthly bill, making air coolers an economical option for cooling.

Is cooler better than AC for electricity?
When it comes to electricity bills, air coolers are generally better than air conditioners due to their lower power consumption. An air cooler can reduce your electricity bill significantly as it uses only a fraction of the power required by an air conditioner. This makes air coolers a cost-effective choice for those looking to manage their cooling costs without sacrificing comfort.

How much electricity does an air cooler consume per hour and month?

An air cooler typically consumes between 100 to 300 watts per hour, depending on its type, size, and fan speed. For example, a 150-watt cooler running for 8 hours a day would use about 1.2 units (kWh) daily and roughly 36 units in a month. This is far lower than air conditioners, making air coolers a more economical cooling option for regular use.

What influences an air cooler’s electric consumption the most?

The main factors influencing an air cooler’s electricity use include motor wattage, fan speed, pump power, and overall size. Larger desert coolers with stronger motors consume more power than compact personal coolers. Usage duration, cooling mode, and ambient temperature also play a role, as higher heat often leads to longer and faster operation, increasing total power consumption.

Can using colder water or ice reduce air cooler power usage?

Using colder water or adding ice improves the cooling effect but does not directly reduce the air cooler’s power consumption. The fan motor and water pump still draw the same electricity. However, better cooling may allow you to operate the cooler at a lower fan speed or for fewer hours, which can indirectly reduce overall electricity usage.

How does room size affect the power consumption of an air cooler?

Room size affects power consumption mainly through the type and capacity of cooler needed. A small room can be cooled effectively with a low-wattage personal or tower cooler, while larger rooms require high-capacity desert coolers with stronger motors. Using an oversized cooler for a small room can waste energy, while an undersized one may run longer, increasing total power use.

What are the energy-efficient features to look for in an air cooler?

Energy-efficient air coolers often include features such as inverter-compatible motors, multi-speed fan control, efficient cooling pads, and low-wattage water pumps. Timers and sleep modes help reduce unnecessary runtime. Good air throw efficiency and proper tank-to-pad water distribution also ensure faster cooling, allowing shorter operating durations and lower overall electricity consumption.

Does higher fan speed significantly increase power consumption?

Yes, higher fan speeds increase power consumption because the motor draws more current to rotate faster. The difference may not be drastic per hour, but over long usage periods, it adds up. Running the cooler at medium speed often provides adequate cooling with better energy efficiency, making it a balanced option between comfort and electricity savings.

Are desert coolers more power-hungry than personal or tower coolers?

Desert coolers generally consume more power than personal or tower coolers because they use larger motors, bigger fans, and higher-capacity water pumps. They are designed for large rooms or outdoor spaces, which justifies the higher wattage. In contrast, personal and tower coolers are compact, use smaller motors, and are much more energy-efficient for small to medium rooms.

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