1. What is Kilowatt-hour (kWh)?

A kilowatt-hour (kWh) is a unit of energy representing the consumption of one kilowatt (1,000 watts) of power for one hour. It's the standard unit used by electric utilities for billing purposes.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the following formula:

Where:

• \( Power \) — Total power consumption in watts (W)
• \( Time \) — Duration of usage in hours (h)
• 1000 — Conversion factor from watts to kilowatts

Explanation: This calculation converts watt-hours to kilowatt-hours by dividing by 1000, since 1 kilowatt equals 1000 watts.

3. Importance of Energy Calculation

Details: Understanding your energy consumption helps in estimating electricity costs, comparing appliance efficiency, and reducing energy waste.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the total power consumption in watts and the duration of usage in hours. For multiple appliances, sum their wattages before entering.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How do I find an appliance's wattage?
A: Check the label or manual. If only amps and volts are listed, multiply them (Watts = Amps × Volts).

Q2: What's the average kWh usage for a home?
A: In the US, average is about 877 kWh/month, but varies by region, home size, and appliances.

Q3: How can I reduce my kWh consumption?
A: Use energy-efficient appliances, LED lighting, and turn off devices when not in use.

Q4: Does this calculator work for solar panels?
A: Yes, it can calculate energy production if you input the panel's wattage and hours of sunlight.

Q5: How do I convert kWh to cost?
A: Multiply kWh by your electricity rate (found on your bill, typically $0.10-$0.30 per kWh).