Estimate what an appliance costs to run in the United States using your own electricity rate. Choose the method that matches the information you actually have: appliance wattage and runtime, annual kWh from an EnergyGuide label, or kWh per cycle for appliances such as dryers, washers and dishwashers.
Estimate appliance running cost
Choose the method that matches the energy information you have. Use your actual electricity rate when possible.
Electricity rate
Which calculation method should you use?
Wattage and runtime
Use this method when you know the appliance’s approximate electrical input in watts and how long it runs. The calculator converts watts to kilowatts, multiplies by runtime, then applies your cents-per-kWh electricity rate.
Annual kWh from an EnergyGuide label
For many regulated appliances, the yellow EnergyGuide label gives an estimated annual electricity use in kWh. When that figure is available, it can be more useful than multiplying a nameplate wattage by 24 hours because appliances such as refrigerators and heat-pump equipment cycle rather than drawing their maximum input continuously.
kWh per cycle
Use the per-cycle method when you have an energy figure for one completed cycle. It is useful for appliances such as clothes dryers, clothes washers and dishwashers. Enter how many cycles you run each week to estimate monthly and annual use.
Use your own electricity rate when possible
The calculator includes a state benchmark for context using U.S. Energy Information Administration residential average retail prices. It is not a quote for your home. Your utility, supplier, rate plan, time of use, taxes and other bill components can produce a different effective price.
Where to find appliance energy data
Check the appliance’s EnergyGuide label, manufacturer specifications, ENERGY STAR product listing, smart plug or other measured energy data. For cycling appliances, measured kWh or tested annual kWh is generally more meaningful than assuming the appliance operates at its maximum wattage all day.
Official U.S. references
- Federal Trade Commission — EnergyGuide labeling
- ENERGY STAR — Product Finder
- U.S. Energy Information Administration — residential electricity prices by state
Reviewed: 26 September 2026. State benchmark rates use EIA July 2026 residential average retail prices.
Appliance running cost FAQs
Is appliance wattage the same as actual energy use?
No. Wattage is a power rate. Energy use depends on how long the appliance draws that power and whether it cycles, changes speed or uses different operating modes. When annual kWh or measured kWh is available, use it.
Can I use the state average electricity price?
You can use it for a rough benchmark, but use the rate on your own bill for a household-specific estimate.
Does the result include fixed utility charges?
No. This calculator estimates the variable electricity cost attributable to the appliance. Fixed customer charges generally do not change because one appliance uses more or less electricity.
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