Appliance Electricity Cost Calculator
Estimate how much electricity an appliance uses and what it costs to run per day, month, and year.
Appliance Details
Check the appliance label, manual, or manufacturer’s specifications for its wattage. Preset wattages are only starting estimates and can be changed.
Appliance Energy Estimate
This estimate assumes the appliance draws the entered wattage during every hour of use. Appliances that cycle on and off may consume less electricity.
How Appliance Electricity Cost Is Calculated
Appliance energy use is measured in kilowatt-hours, or kWh. Divide the appliance wattage by 1,000 to convert watts to kilowatts. Multiply that amount by the hours used to calculate kilowatt-hours.
How Much Does It Cost to Run an Appliance?
The cost depends on the appliance wattage, how long it operates, and the electricity rate charged by your utility. A high-wattage appliance used briefly may cost less than a smaller appliance that runs continuously.
Your electric bill may list separate supply, delivery, taxes, and fixed charges. For the most complete estimate, divide the electricity-related portion of your bill by the total kWh used to find your effective rate per kWh.
Space Heater Electricity Cost Example
A 1,500-watt space heater used for eight hours per day consumes 12 kWh per day. At an electricity rate of 16 cents per kWh, it costs approximately $1.92 per day, $57.60 for 30 days, or $700.80 for a full year of daily use.
Window Air Conditioner Electricity Cost
Window air conditioners commonly cycle on and off after reaching the selected temperature. Enter the unit’s rated wattage and the estimated number of hours it actively runs. Weather, insulation, room size, temperature setting, and equipment efficiency can substantially change actual usage.
Ceiling Fan Electricity Cost
Ceiling fans generally use much less electricity than air conditioners or electric heaters. A fan’s cost still depends on its speed, wattage, daily operating time, and local electricity rate. Use the wattage printed on the fan or in its specifications for a more accurate estimate.
Refrigerator and Freezer Energy Use
Refrigerators and freezers do not normally draw their rated wattage continuously. Their compressors cycle as needed. For a better annual estimate, use the yearly kWh shown on the appliance’s EnergyGuide label when available.
Why Is My Electric Bill So High?
Heating, cooling, electric water heating, clothes dryers, dehumidifiers, hot tubs, pool equipment, and appliances operating continuously can substantially affect an electric bill. Higher utility rates, unusually hot or cold weather, estimated meter readings, equipment problems, and increased usage can also raise the total.
This calculator can estimate individual appliance costs, but it cannot diagnose wiring problems, meter errors, or malfunctioning equipment. Contact the utility or a qualified electrician when electricity use changes unexpectedly or appears unsafe.