Calculator 01 · Energy cost
Appliance energy cost calculator
Enter the appliance’s rated watts, how long you use it and the electricity rate from your bill. The result updates instantly.
Appliance energy cost
Use the power label on your appliance and the electricity rate shown on your bill.
Formula: watts ÷ 1,000 × hours per day × days × electricity rate. Cycling appliances and variable-speed equipment can use less than their full rated power.
Local rate shortcuts
Check Appliance Energy Costs by State
Open a calculator prefilled with the latest EIA residential average, then replace it with the all-in rate from your own utility bill.
View all 50 states and Washington, DC
Worked examples
Monthly electricity cost at $0.18 per kWh
These examples use rated watts as a planning input. Cycling and variable-speed appliances may draw less when measured across a full day.
| Appliance | Example use | Monthly energy | Monthly cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Portable AC | 1,200 W · 8 hr/day | 288 kWh | $51.84 |
| Space heater | 1,500 W · 6 hr/day | 270 kWh | $48.60 |
| Dehumidifier | 500 W · 10 hr/day | 150 kWh | $27.00 |
| Ceiling fan | 55 W · 12 hr/day | 19.8 kWh | $3.56 |
Use the number you actually pay.
Your electricity bill may show a blended price per kilowatt-hour, or separate energy, delivery and time-of-use charges. For a quick planning estimate, use the all-in amount you paid divided by the total kWh on the same bill.
Why rated watts can overstate usage
A label shows the appliance’s rated power, but refrigerators, air conditioners and dehumidifiers cycle. A plug-in energy meter gives a better average for equipment that turns itself on and off.
Public reference data
The U.S. Energy Information Administration publishes average retail electricity prices by state and sector. The Department of Energy explains how to compare appliance operating costs using EnergyGuide information. See both on our methodology page.