Electricity Cost Calculator

The Electricity Cost Calculator helps you estimate how much it costs to run electrical appliances and devices. Understanding your electricity usage is essential for managing energy bills and making informed decisions about energy-efficient alternatives.

How Electricity Costs Are Calculated

Basic Formula

Energy (kWh) = Power (Watts) × Hours of Use ÷ 1000

Cost = Energy (kWh) × Rate ($/kWh)

Example Calculation

A 100W light bulb running for 10 hours:

• Energy = 100W × 10h ÷ 1000 = 1 kWh
• Cost at $0.12/kWh = 1 × $0.12 = $0.12

Understanding Your Electricity Bill

kWh (Kilowatt-Hours)

The standard unit for measuring electricity consumption. One kWh equals using 1,000 watts for one hour.

Electricity Rates

Rates vary significantly by:

• Location: Prices differ by state/country
• Time of use: Some utilities charge more during peak hours
• Usage tiers: Higher usage may mean higher rates
• Season: Rates may change in summer/winter

Average Electricity Rates by Region

Common Appliance Power Consumption

Energy-Saving Tips

1. Switch to LED Bulbs: Use 75% less energy than incandescent
2. Unplug Standby Devices: Phantom loads add up
3. Use Energy Star Appliances: Certified for efficiency
4. Adjust Thermostat: Each degree saves 1-3% on heating/cooling
5. Run Full Loads: Wait for full dishwasher/washer loads
6. Use Power Strips: Easily cut power to multiple devices

Peak vs Off-Peak Rates

Many utilities offer time-of-use pricing:

• Peak Hours: Usually 2 PM - 7 PM weekdays (higher rates)
• Off-Peak: Nights and weekends (lower rates)
• Super Off-Peak: Late night hours (lowest rates)

Running high-consumption appliances during off-peak hours can significantly reduce your bill.

Note: Electricity rates and consumption vary based on location, utility provider, and appliance efficiency. Use your actual electricity rate from your bill for the most accurate calculations.