A Business Insider journalist who installed air conditioning in 2018 has calculated what it costs to keep a top-floor flat cool. His apartment lies directly under the roof and has sloped skylight windows, which makes it difficult to keep the heat out. During the hottest periods, running the unit for eight hours a day costs 8.24 zł.
The owner decided to check how air conditioning affects energy bills in one of the most demanding locations in a building. The apartment is located on the highest floor, under the roof, with windows in the slope, so the sun can heat it quickly.
The calculation assumes about eight hours of cooling each day. If the air conditioner worked like that for 20 days over the month, the bill for cooling alone would reach roughly 274.20 zł.
Seasonal servicing adds to the cost
Power bills are not the only expense connected with air conditioning. An annual inspection and service of the device costs between 200 and 500 zł, depending on how much work is needed.
More intense heatwaves in Europe have led to discussion about making cooling systems available in places particularly exposed to high temperatures. The debate is no longer just about comfort, but also about safety in schools, hospitals, and care homes.
France considers mandatory cooling in public institutions
In France, Eric Ciotti, leader of the Union of the Right party supporting the far-right National Rally, has proposed a legal requirement to install air conditioning in schools, medical facilities, and senior care homes.
Marine Le Pen, meanwhile, has announced that if she wins the presidential election, she will bring in a broad air-conditioning development program. She argues that access to cooling is a public health issue.
European Union rules have also shaped how these devices are used. Since 2010, every air conditioner sold in the EU must have a heating function, so it can act as an air-source heat pump and provide heat in colder months.
Source: WNP.PL, Photo: Shutterstock/Palakorn Jaiman
