How Appliance Energy Cost Is Calculated
Energy use is measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh), which is what your utility bill charges you for. To find it, multiply the appliance’s wattage by the hours it runs, then divide by 1000.
The formula is: kWh = (Watts x Hours) / 1000, and Cost = kWh x your electricity rate per kWh. This calculator scales that daily figure up to monthly and yearly estimates.
These are estimates for general household budgeting purposes — actual costs depend on your specific rate plan, appliance efficiency, and real-world usage patterns.
Last reviewed August 2026