APPLIANCE CALCULATOR
Appliance Energy Cost Calculator
Use wattage, daily runtime, and your local electricity rate to see an appliance’s daily, monthly, and yearly operating cost.
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LIVE CALCULATOR
Updates instantlyCalculate the cost of running any appliance
watts
hours
days
$/kWh
Formula: Cost = (watts ÷ 1,000) × hours used × electricity rate
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How this estimate works
The result is most accurate for devices with steady power use. Appliances that cycle may use less than nameplate wattage suggests.
- Use your equipment data. Check a label, specification sheet, controller, or energy meter.
- Enter your utility rate. A recent bill is more useful than a national average.
- Test different schedules. Change one input at a time to compare scenarios.
Ways to reduce or refine the cost
1
Use measured wattage from a plug-in energy monitor when possible.
2
For cycling appliances, estimate active compressor or heating time.
3
Compare annual operating cost when choosing equipment.
Transparent methodology
Results use the values you enter and standard energy formulas. They are planning estimates, not bills or guarantees.
Frequently asked questions
Where do I find appliance wattage?+
Look at the rating label, owner’s manual, EnergyGuide label, or manufacturer specifications.
Why is my real cost different?+
Startup loads, thermostats, standby power, variable-speed motors, and time-of-use rates can change actual consumption.
How many watts are in one kilowatt?+
One kilowatt equals 1,000 watts.
How to verify this estimate
Best input
Use measured watts or cycle energy instead of nameplate maximum power whenever possible.
Reality check
Measure a representative operating period and include standby use only when it is material.
Important limitation
Thermostatic cycling, start-up loads, user settings, and seasonal conditions change actual consumption.
Primary reference: U.S. Department of Energy. Reviewed September 2026.