Step-by-step example
Scenario: 500W air conditioner runs 8 hours daily for 30 days at $0.12/kWh.
Formula: Cost = (Watts x Hours x Days x Rate) / 1000
- kWh = (500 x 8 x 30) / 1000 = 120 kWh
- Cost = 120 x $0.12
- Cost = $14.40
Result: $14.40 per month
Use cases
- Estimate monthly or yearly energy use in kWh.
- Approximate operating cost from a utility rate.
- Compare appliance usage scenarios and schedules.
- Create budget-level forecasts for energy consumption.
Assumptions & limitations
- Results are estimates and may be rounded; small differences are expected.
- Inputs assume steady-state values; transient and surge effects are not modeled.
- Voltage can vary by supply, load, and location; use measured values when possible.
- Power factor varies by load type; use a realistic value for inductive equipment.
- Wiring rules and safety codes vary by jurisdiction; consult a licensed electrician for installation decisions.
Sources & references
- OSHA Electrical Standards overview - Summarizes electrical safety standards and references NFPA 70/70E.
- OpenStax University Physics - Electrical energy and power - Defines electric power relationships such as P = IV and ties them to circuit variables.
- NIST Glossary - Watt (W) - Defines the watt as a unit of power equal to one joule per second.
- US EPA Glossary - Kilowatt-hour (kWh) - Defines kWh as an energy unit based on power over time.