1. What is the Watts to Cost Calculator?

This calculator estimates the electricity cost of running an electrical appliance based on its power consumption in watts, duration of use, and your electricity rate. It's tailored for UK electricity rates in 2023-24 (typically £0.28-£0.34 per kWh).

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the following formula:

Where:

• \( P \) — Power consumption in watts (W)
• \( h \) — Time in hours
• \( Cost/kWh \) — Electricity rate in pounds per kilowatt-hour

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

3. Understanding Electricity Costs

Details: Electricity in the UK is typically charged per kilowatt-hour (kWh). The average rate in 2023-24 ranges from £0.28 to £0.34 per kWh, though this can vary by supplier and tariff.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips:

• Find your appliance's power rating in watts (usually on a label)
• Estimate how many hours per day you use it
• Use your current electricity rate (check your bill)
• For monthly costs, multiply daily hours by 30

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the average electricity rate in the UK?
A: For 2023-24, typical rates range from £0.28 to £0.34 per kWh under the Energy Price Guarantee.

Q2: How do I find my appliance's wattage?
A: Check the label, manual, or manufacturer's website. A typical LED bulb might be 10W, while a kettle might be 3000W.

Q3: Does this include standing charges?
A: No, this calculates only the energy consumption cost. Your bill also includes a daily standing charge.

Q4: How accurate is this calculator?
A: It provides a good estimate, but actual costs may vary if appliances don't run at constant power or if rates change.

Q5: Can I use this for solar panel calculations?
A: Yes, you can use it to estimate savings by comparing costs with and without solar generation.