AC costPurchase, running cost and payback
A full AC installation starts from €1,699. Heat with AC instead of gas? You save €500–€1,200 per year.
What does an AC cost?
Total cost consists of three parts: purchase and installation, annual running cost (electricity, maintenance) and any optional extras like an extra circuit or special bracket.
The good news: if you use your AC as a heat pump in winter, the running cost is significantly lower than gas heating. Most households recoup the investment within 4–7 years.
Purchase and installation
Indicative starting prices, including assembly.
| Type | Suitable for | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Single-split 2.5 kW | 15–25 m² | from €1,699 |
| Single-split 5.0 kW | 35–50 m² | from €1,999 |
| Multi-split 2 indoor units | Living + bedroom | from €3,200 |
| Multi-split 3 indoor units | 3 rooms | from €4,200 |
| Multi-split 4 indoor units | Larger home | from €5,200 |
| Multi-split 5 indoor units | Whole home | from €6,500 |
Annual running cost
For a single-split, average household use.
| Electricity for cooling (summer) | €50 – €150 per year |
| Electricity for heating (winter) | €400 – €700 per year |
| Annual single-split maintenance | €200 per visit |
| Filter replacement (every 2 years) | €30 – €60 |
Savings vs. gas
Example calculations based on Dutch gas and electricity rates 2026.
Apartment 60 m²
Terraced house 100 m²
Detached home 150 m²
AC vs. gas vs. underfloor heating
Compared side by side.
| Factor | AC | Gas | Underfloor |
|---|---|---|---|
| Comfort | Instant, room-by-room control | Familiar, uneven | Even, slow warm-up |
| Efficiency | 3–5× heat per kWh | Max. 107% | High at low temperatures |
| Sustainability | No gas, also cooling | Gas-dependent | Often gas-fired |
| Purchase price | €1,699 – €5,000+ | €1,500 – €3,000 | €3,000 – €8,000+ |
Payback period
Energy savings
Modern AC delivers 3–5× heat per kWh. Compared to gas (max. 1.07×), savings are substantial.
4–7 years payback
Most homes recoup the investment within 4–7 years through lower gas bills.
Cooling included
Unlike gas or underfloor heating, an AC also cools in summer — extra comfort without extra cost.
Want a tailored cost estimate?
Request a free quote and we calculate your specific savings and payback period.