Appliance Energy Cost
Estimate the electricity cost of any appliance. Calculate the annual energy usage and operating cost based on wattage and usage.
How to use this calculator
Calculate the annual energy cost of any electrical appliance. Find the appliance's wattage on its label, estimate its daily usage, and enter your local electricity rate (found on your utility bill) for the most accurate results.
What Is an Appliance Energy Cost Calculator?
An Appliance Energy Cost Calculator is a tool that helps you uncover the hidden costs of running your household appliances. By estimating how much a device costs to operate annually, you can make smarter decisions about usage and when it's time to upgrade to a more energy-efficient model. Our free calculator uses your local electricity rate for the most accurate results, empowering you to identify which appliances are impacting your utility bill the most.
Last updated: November 8, 2025
How to Use This Calculator
Our free appliance cost calculator provides instant results. Follow these simple steps:
- Enter Appliance Wattage (W): Input the appliance's wattage, which can be found on its label.
- Estimate Daily Usage: Enter the average number of hours the device runs per day.
- Input Your Energy Rate: Add your cost per kWh from your electric bill for the most precise estimate.
- Click "Calculate Cost": Instantly see the estimated annual cost to operate the appliance.
Understanding Your Appliance Energy Costs
The calculation is based on a simple formula: (Wattage × Hours Used Per Day × 365) / 1000 × Cost per kWh. This determines the total kilowatt-hours (kWh) consumed annually and multiplies it by your electricity rate.
- Estimated Annual Cost: This is the primary result, showing how much you spend per year to power that single appliance. Use this figure to compare devices and identify opportunities for savings.
According to the Department of Energy, a typical U.S. household spends about $1,900 a year on energy costs. Identifying and upgrading inefficient appliances can significantly reduce this number.
Tips to Optimize Your Appliance Energy Use
Besides upgrading to efficient models, you can lower your costs with simple habit changes:
- Unplug Devices: Use smart power strips to cut "phantom power" to electronics when they're not in use.
- Wash with Cold Water: About 90% of a washing machine's energy cost comes from heating the water.
- Air Dry Dishes: Use your dishwasher's air-dry setting to save energy.
- Full Loads Only: Run your dishwasher and washing machine only when they are full.
Example Appliance Cost Calculation
This example shows the annual cost of running a slightly older refrigerator.
| Input | Example Value |
|---|---|
| Appliance Wattage | 500 W |
| Hours Used Per Day | 8 hours |
| Cost per kWh | $0.17 |
| Estimated Annual Cost | ~$248.20 |