ELECTRICITY AND APPLIANCES

Refrigerator Cost Calculator

Estimate refrigerator or freezer energy use using running wattage and duty cycle.

Transparent formula User-controlled electricity rate Calculations stay in your browser
Percentage of time the compressor runs (typically 30-50%).
Enter an EnergyGuide value to see the difference.

Your estimate will appear here

Enter your inputs and click calculate to see the cost and energy breakdown.

How It Works

The calculator uses the following formulas:

  • Daily kWh = (Watts / 1000) × 24 hours × Duty cycle decimal
  • Annual kWh = Daily kWh × 365
  • Monthly kWh = Annual kWh / 12
  • Cost = kWh × (Rate in cents / 100)

Worked Example

A 180 W refrigerator with a 35% duty cycle at 18 cents/kWh uses about 1.51 kWh per day, 45.99 kWh per month, and costs about $8.28 per month or $99.34 per year.

Limitations

This is a simplified estimate. Compressor cycling, defrost heaters, ambient temperature, door opening frequency, age, and ice-maker use can materially change real consumption.

CALCULATOR QUESTIONS

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers about wattage, runtime, electricity rates, estimated costs, and the limitations of this calculator.

Review the calculator formula →

WHAT YOU WILL FIND HERE

  • Input and unit guidance
  • Formula and worked-example explanations
  • Reasons actual costs may differ
What is refrigerator duty cycle?
Duty cycle is the percentage of time the refrigerator's compressor is actively running. A typical modern refrigerator might have a duty cycle around 30% to 50%, depending on the model, age, ambient temperature, and how often the doors are opened.
Is the nameplate wattage the same as average power?
No. The nameplate wattage indicates the maximum power draw (often during defrost cycles or when the compressor starts). The average running wattage is typically much lower.
Why can room temperature change the result?
Refrigerators work by moving heat from inside the box to the outside air. If the room is warmer (like a hot garage), the compressor has to run longer and harder (a higher duty cycle) to maintain the interior temperature, which uses more electricity.
Looking for a question that is not covered here? Contact DataWisdom.