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Old Air Conditioners in Argentina Use Up to 4× the Power of a Modern Washer

New reports quantify how aging units inflate electricity bills by running fixed-speed compressors at full power.

Overview

  • Journalistic comparisons citing ENRE say pre-inverter air conditioners of roughly 10–15 years can draw about 1.5–2.5 kWh per hour, versus roughly 0.4–0.6 kWh for a full cycle on an efficient class A washing machine.
  • Reporters note that older ACs typically lack inverter technology, so the compressor runs at maximum load instead of modulating output to meet the room’s temperature.
  • La Capital adds that a modern inverter unit can use around 1,000 watts per hour, less than half the draw of many older models.
  • Outlets report that upgrading to inverter A+++ equipment can cut energy use by up to about 40%, a change presented as especially relevant after recent subsidy reductions raised electricity bills.
  • Coverage cites maintenance and usage steps to curb costs, including cleaning filters, checking refrigerant, setting 24–26 °C, using natural ventilation, and ensuring safe, dedicated electrical installation; one report estimates keeping an old unit can add over 300 kWh per year.