How to use this calculator
Enter the wattage of your appliance, how many hours you use it each day, and your electricity rate in dollars per kilowatt-hour. Not sure about the wattage? Use one of the appliance presets to get a typical value for common household devices.
The default rate of $0.16/kWh is the approximate U.S. national average. For a more accurate estimate, check your latest electric bill, your actual rate may be higher or lower depending on where you live and your utility plan.
Average electricity rates by state
| State | Avg. Rate ($/kWh) | vs. National Avg. |
|---|---|---|
| Louisiana | $0.10 | 37% below |
| Texas | $0.13 | 19% below |
| Florida | $0.14 | 13% below |
| Ohio | $0.15 | 6% below |
| New York | $0.22 | 38% above |
| California | $0.27 | 69% above |
| Connecticut | $0.29 | 81% above |
| Hawaii | $0.33 | 106% above |
Biggest energy hogs in your home
Not all appliances are created equal when it comes to electricity consumption. Here are the typical biggest energy consumers in a U.S. household, ranked by annual cost at the national average rate:
- Central air conditioning: 3,500W, ~$500 to 700/year
- Electric water heater: 4,500W, ~$400 to 600/year
- Clothes dryer: 3,000W, ~$100 to 150/year
- Refrigerator: 150W (runs 24/7), ~$80 to 120/year
- Electric oven/range: 2,500W, ~$70 to 100/year
- Lighting (whole house): varies, ~$50 to 200/year
The key insight: it's not just wattage that matters, it's wattage multiplied by hours of use. A 150W refrigerator running 24/7 costs more per year than a 3,000W dryer used for an hour a few times per week.
Frequently asked questions
How do I find my electricity rate?
Check your latest electric bill, the rate is usually listed as a cost per kilowatt-hour (kWh). The U.S. national average is around $0.16/kWh, but it varies widely by state, from about $0.10 in Louisiana to over $0.30 in Hawaii.
How many watts does my appliance use?
Check the label on the back or bottom of the appliance, it usually lists wattage. You can also use a plug-in power meter (like a Kill A Watt) for an exact reading, especially for devices with variable power draw like refrigerators.
What uses the most electricity in a home?
Heating and cooling systems are typically the biggest electricity users, accounting for about 40 to 50% of a home's energy bill. Water heaters, clothes dryers, and electric ovens are the next biggest consumers.
How can I reduce my electricity bill?
The biggest wins are: switching to LED bulbs, using a programmable thermostat, sealing air leaks around windows and doors, running major appliances during off-peak hours, and unplugging devices that draw phantom power when not in use.