Kitchen
Refrigerator Electricity Cost Calculator
Estimate refrigerator electricity cost with duty-cycle assumptions instead of assuming the compressor runs all day.
Default wattage 150 W
Monthly use 36 kWh
Monthly cost $5.92
Yearly cost $71.02
How to estimate the cost
Start with the default wattage range of 80 W to 250 W, then replace it with the value on your appliance label or an energy meter reading. The calculator uses 16.44 cents/kWh as a planning baseline until you enter your own rate.
Scenario comparison
Use the table to test whether wattage or runtime matters more for this appliance before changing settings, replacing equipment, or buying a measurement tool.
| Scenario | Assumption | Monthly use | Monthly cost | Yearly cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lower-use case | 80 W x 4 hr/day x 30 days
Useful for lower settings, shorter sessions, or better controls. | 9.6 kWh | $1.58 | $18.94 |
| Default estimate | 150 W x 8 hr/day x 30 days
Uses the preset shown in the calculator and summary above. | 36 kWh | $5.92 | $71.02 |
| Higher-use case | 250 W x 12 hr/day x 30 days
Useful for long runtimes, high settings, or seasonal spikes. | 90 kWh | $14.80 | $177.55 |
What changes the real cost
- Use duty-cycle wording because refrigerators cycle on and off.
- Point users to the yellow EnergyGuide label when available.
- Do not claim exact cost without measured kWh.
Money-saving angle
Best next checks for this topic: Energy monitors, refrigerator thermometers, maintenance checklists, and efficient replacement planning.