How many watts does a central air conditioner use?
Every number here comes from a named source. Generator charts give a generous figure for sizing a generator or power station. Test data and manufacturer specs show what the appliance draws.
- Running
- 3,077 W
- Voltage
- 240 V
What each source says
| Figure | Value | Source and basis |
|---|---|---|
| Running | 3,077 W | U.S. DOE, 2023 central air conditioner standards FAQ3-ton (36,000 Btu/h) split system at the 11.7 EER2 federal minimum for the Southwest: 36,000 / 11.7. A more efficient unit draws less. |
Good to know
- Central AC runs on 240 V, so it needs backup power wired into the home's panel, such as a standby generator or a whole-home battery.
- The outdoor unit's nameplate lists RLA (running amps) and LRA (locked-rotor amps, the starting surge).