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Calculate Energy Cost from Watts

Energy Cost Formula:

\[ \text{Cost} = \left( \frac{P \times h}{1000} \right) \times \text{Cost per kWh} \]

watts (W)
hours
£/kWh

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1. What is Energy Cost Calculation?

The energy cost calculation determines how much it costs to run an electrical device based on its power consumption, usage time, and the cost of electricity. It helps in budgeting and comparing energy efficiency of different appliances.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the energy cost formula:

\[ \text{Cost} = \left( \frac{P \times h}{1000} \right) \times \text{Cost per kWh} \]

Where:

Explanation: The formula first converts watt-hours to kilowatt-hours (kWh) by dividing by 1000, then multiplies by the cost per kWh to get the total cost.

3. Importance of Energy Cost Calculation

Details: Understanding energy costs helps in making informed decisions about appliance usage, identifying energy-saving opportunities, and managing electricity bills effectively.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the device's power rating in watts (usually found on the label), the number of hours it's used, your electricity rate per kWh, and select your currency. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How do I find my electricity rate?
A: Check your electricity bill - it's usually listed as "cost per kWh" or similar. Rates may vary by time of day or usage tier.

Q2: What's the difference between watts and kilowatts?
A: 1 kilowatt (kW) = 1000 watts (W). Electricity is typically billed per kilowatt-hour (kWh).

Q3: Should I use the appliance's peak or average power?
A: For accurate results, use the actual power consumption during operation. Some devices have variable power usage.

Q4: Can I calculate monthly costs with this?
A: Yes - multiply daily usage hours by 30 (or actual days in month) for monthly estimates.

Q5: Why is my actual bill different from calculations?
A: Actual bills may include fixed charges, taxes, tiered pricing, or devices you didn't account for in your calculations.

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