Calculator 01 · Energy cost
How much does that appliance cost to run?
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.
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.