If you are new to the world of indoor cooling, you may wonder what is the voltage of an air conditioner. Many of the best air conditioners, after all, feature different voltage types. In most cases, central air conditioners require a 220-volt or 240-volt circuit for operation. Central AC units also need compressor lubrication if you are learning what kind of oil is for an air conditioner. Window units and portable systems, however, require 110/120-volt or 220/240-volt circuits for operation, even if you have learned all about SEER in an air conditioner. Of course, these voltages are for the United States; other countries will vary.
Key Takeaways_
- Central units typically require either a 220-volt or a 240-volt circuit for electrical power.
- Smaller appliances like window air conditioners and portable units require 110/120-volt circuits or, in some cases, 220/240-volt circuits.
- Find out the electrical requirements of your AC by checking the labels near the plug or the instructions.
Common Air Conditioner Voltages
This really depends on the type of air conditioner you have in your home. You can also learn more about how high and low cool on an AC can affect the performance of your system. Plus, if you hear the AC unit squeals after turning on, you’ll want to ensure it’s not affecting the performance.
insider tip
Don’t plug your AC into an outlet with an incorrect voltage, as this could cause damage to the appliance and your electrical circuit.
Confused about the voltage types of your AC or HVAC system? Don’t be, as sussing out the correct voltage for your air conditioner is rather simple, with many options available.
Check the Instructions
The first thing you should do is check the instructions that accompanied your AC unit. If you have a window unit, you likely saved and stored these instructions somewhere. If you bought a central AC system years ago, or one came with the house, the instruction manual might be more difficult to find. In these cases, perform a quick web search with the make and model number. This will usually pull up a PDF of the manual.
STAT: Voltage is the electrical potential between two points. Higher voltage machines result in lower amp draw, which allows the units to last longer and have higher capacities. (source)
Check the Labels
The labels will alert you to the voltage, particularly any labels attached to the plug that integrates directly into the electrical circuit. Check right near the end of the plug, and you should find a label that indicates the voltage requirements.
Ask a Pro
When all else fails, simply contact a professional for advice on the matter. However, they may charge the price of a service call, which is something to consider.
