The Physics & Economics of NYC Summer

NYC summers are brutally humid due to the urban heat island effect. Central AC is rare outside of new luxury developments. Most New Yorkers rely on window AC units. This creates a predictable August panic when the first full-summer electric bill arrives.

ConEdison Summer Rates

ConEdison (the monopoly utility provider for the city) increases its delivery rates during the summer months (June 1 - Sept 30). This means that even if you use the exact same amount of electricity, your bill will go up. When you add the massive wattage required by an AC unit, bills easily double or triple.

Estimate Your AC Cost

BTU Sizing

Do not buy the biggest AC you can find. An oversized unit will cool the room too quickly without dehumidifying the air, leaving you cold and clammy. A 6,000 BTU unit is sufficient for a standard bedroom. You need 12,000+ for a large living room.

The Bracket Bracket

Legally, building management in buildings over 6 stories must require AC brackets (supports installed outside the window) for safety. Dropping an AC unit on a pedestrian is a very real, albeit rare, danger.