What uses the most electricity at home?

Typically: HVAC (heating/cooling) 40-50%, water heater 12-18%, washer/dryer 8-10%, lighting 5-10%, refrigerator 4-8%. Actual usage varies by climate, home size, and efficiency of appliances.

How do I find an appliance's wattage?

Check the label on the appliance, the manual, or manufacturer's website. You can also use a plug-in electricity monitor to measure actual usage, which may differ from rated wattage.

Do appliances use power when turned off?

Yes, many have 'phantom' or 'vampire' power draw. TVs, chargers, computers, and anything with a clock or remote can use 5-20W even when 'off.' Use power strips to fully disconnect.

How can I lower my electric bill?

Biggest impacts: adjust thermostat 2-3°, use LED bulbs, run full loads in washer/dryer, unplug unused devices, use smart power strips, consider time-of-use rates, and upgrade old appliances.

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Electric Bill Calculator

Calculate electricity costs based on kWh usage or appliance wattage, with common appliance estimates and bill breakdown

Input Mode

Monthly Usage (kWh)

kWh

Rate Per kWh

$/kWh

Fixed Charge

Taxes (%)

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Calculate Your Electric Bill Costs

Know exactly what your appliances cost to run. Enter your electricity rate and either total kWh usage or specific appliance wattage to see monthly and annual costs. Identify energy hogs and find opportunities to save on your electric bill.

How Electricity Costs Are Calculated

Electricity is billed in kilowatt-hours (kWh). A 1000W appliance running for 1 hour uses 1 kWh. Your bill is kWh used × rate per kWh, plus fixed charges and taxes. Knowing this helps you estimate costs and find savings.

Electricity Cost Formula

Cost = (Watts × Hours / 1000) × Rate per kWh

How to Calculate Electricity Costs

Common Use Cases

Monthly Budgeting

Estimate electric bills for household budget planning.

Appliance Comparison

Compare running costs when shopping for new appliances.

Energy Audit

Identify which appliances cost the most to operate.

Rental Estimates

Estimate utility costs before moving to a new place.

Frequently Asked Questions

Check your electric bill for 'rate per kWh' or 'energy charge.' In the US, average residential rates range from $0.10-0.25/kWh depending on location. Some utilities have tiered rates that increase with usage.