The formula
Running cost comes down to two steps. First, energy:
kWh = watts ÷ 1,000 × hours. Then cost:
kWh × your rate ($/kWh). A 1,500 W heater for 8 hours uses 12 kWh;
at $0.17/kWh that's about $2.04 a day. The calculator just runs that math across every
period so you can see the hourly, monthly, and yearly picture at once.
Use your own numbers
The presets are indicative typical wattages — handy for a ballpark, but
your model may differ. For the most accurate result, enter the watts from the appliance's
label and the $/kWh from your electricity bill. Cycling appliances like
fridges and AC don't run flat-out all day, so they use an effective-average wattage or
equivalent run-hours.
Indicative typical wattages and a ~$0.17/kWh US average rate, as
of 2026-06. Use your bill for accuracy.