Electricity Cost Calculator
Calculate how much an appliance costs to run. Find out the daily, monthly, and yearly electricity usage and cost for any device.
Check the label on your appliance or manual
US average: $0.12/kWh. Check your utility bill for your rate.
Common Appliance Wattages:
Enter appliance details to calculate electricity cost.
How It Works
Electricity is measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh). One kWh is using 1,000 watts for one hour. The formula is: kWh = (Watts × Hours) ÷ 1000. Multiply by your electricity rate to get the cost.
The wattage shown on appliances is the maximum power draw. Actual usage varies—a refrigerator cycles on and off, so it uses less than its rated wattage on average. For accurate measurements, consider using a plug-in electricity monitor.
Electricity rates vary significantly by location and time of use. Check your utility bill for your actual rate. Some areas have tiered pricing where higher usage costs more per kWh.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find my electricity rate?
Check your utility bill—look for the rate per kWh in the charges breakdown. The US average is about $0.12/kWh, but rates range from $0.08 to $0.30+ depending on location. Some utilities have different rates for peak and off-peak hours.
What uses the most electricity at home?
Heating and cooling typically account for 40-50% of home energy use. Water heating is next (15-20%), followed by appliances, lighting, and electronics. Space heaters and AC units are often the biggest individual energy users.
Do appliances use power when turned off?
Yes, many devices draw "phantom" or "standby" power when plugged in but off. TVs, computers, chargers, and devices with clocks or LEDs can add $100-200/year to your bill. Use power strips to fully disconnect devices.
How can I reduce my electricity bill?
Switch to LED bulbs, use smart power strips, adjust thermostat settings, maintain HVAC filters, use appliances during off-peak hours, seal air leaks, and consider upgrading to energy-efficient appliances. Even small changes add up.
What's the difference between watts and kilowatts?
A kilowatt (kW) is 1,000 watts. Watts measure power (rate of energy use), while kilowatt-hours (kWh) measure energy consumed over time. A 100-watt bulb running for 10 hours uses 1 kWh (100W × 10h ÷ 1000 = 1 kWh).