How to use the Electricity Cost Calculator
- 1 Enter the appliance's power in watts.
- 2 Enter hours used each day.
- 3 Enter how many you run.
- 4 Enter your rate in cents per kWh.
Worked example
A 2,000 watt heater used 4 hours a day at 32c per kWh. It uses 8 kWh a day, costing about $2.56 a day, about $233 a quarter and about $934 a year, before daily supply charges.
Features
Quarterly cost
Matches how most Australian bills are issued.
Any appliance
Heaters, air conditioners, pool pumps and more.
Your rate
Uses your own usage rate.
When to use it
Winter heating
See the cost of a portable heater.
Summer cooling
Estimate air conditioner costs.
Buying appliances
Compare energy ratings.
Solar planning
See how much usage solar could cover.
Frequently asked questions
How do I calculate electricity cost?
kWh = watts × hours ÷ 1,000. Cost = kWh × rate.
What is a typical rate?
Usage rates commonly range from about 25c to 40c per kWh depending on state and plan.
Does this include supply charges?
No. Daily supply charges are fixed and added on top.
Are time-of-use rates different?
Yes. Peak, shoulder and off-peak rates differ.
Where do I compare plans?
Energy Made Easy compares offers in most states, and Victorian Energy Compare in Victoria.
How much does a heater cost?
A 2,000 W heater costs about 64c an hour at 32c per kWh.
Do appliances use standby power?
Yes, often a few watts each.
Do star ratings help?
More stars mean lower running costs.
Can solar reduce costs?
Solar cuts daytime usage costs, and feed-in tariffs pay for exports.
What about EV charging?
Charging at home off-peak is usually cheapest.
How much does a reverse-cycle air conditioner cost?
A 2.5 kW unit often draws about 700 to 900 watts, roughly 25c an hour at 32c per kWh.
Are heat pumps cheaper for hot water?
Yes. Heat pump hot water uses about a third of the energy of an electric storage system.
Can I check usage online?
Most retailers show daily or half-hourly usage from your smart meter.
Is there government help?
State energy rebates and concessions may be available.
What uses the most power at home?
Heating and cooling, hot water, pool pumps, clothes dryers and older fridges are usually the biggest users in Australian homes.
How do I read my bill?
Your bill shows kWh used in each rate period, the cents per kWh charged and a daily supply charge. Divide total usage charges by kWh for an average rate.
Does a smart meter help?
Yes. It records usage every half hour, which helps you spot costly appliances and choose time-of-use plans.
Results are estimates based on the official rates linked above. Confirm important figures with the issuing authority or a qualified adviser before you act on them.
Reviewed by ToolsUnlocked Team · Last updated