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How to Figure Operating Costs
How much does it cost to operate an appliance? Just follow these simple steps to find out:
- Find the wattage rating on the back or bottom of your appliance. If there is an amperage rating instead, multiply the amps times the volts to calculate the watts. (amps x volts = watts)
Example: A microwave oven rated at 6 amps and 120 volts would use 720 watts of electricity. (6 amps x 120 volts = 720 watts)
- Divide the appliance wattage by 1,000 to convert to kilowatts.
Example: 720 watts divided by 1,000 = .72 kilowatts
- Multiply the kilowatts by the number of hours it is on.
Example: Your microwave runs for 90 minutes.
1.5 hours x .72 kilowatts = 1.08 kilowatt hours - Multiply the kilowatt hours by $.11 (current kilowatt hour cost for residential service)
Example: 1.08 kilowatts hours x .11 = $.11880
The cost to use a 720-watt microwave oven for 90 minutes is just under 12.0 cents!
Keep in mind that:
- Appliances with a thermostat will not run 100% of the time.
- Electric motors use approximately 750 watts per hour horsepower.
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