How to use the AC and Appliance Running Cost
- 1 Enter the appliance's power in watts from its label or manual.
- 2 Enter the hours you use it each day.
- 3 Enter how many of the same appliance you run.
- 4 Enter your rate per unit from your bill, including taxes, and read the monthly cost.
Worked example
A 1,500 watt AC used 8 hours a day at Rs 60 per unit. It uses 12 units a day, or 360 units a month. At Rs 60 a unit that adds about Rs 21,600 to the monthly bill, and roughly Rs 86,400 over four summer months.
Features
Units and rupees
Daily and monthly units, and their cost at your rate.
Summer total
Cost over four hot months for ACs and fans.
Any appliance
AC, fridge, geyser, iron, water motor, fan or computer.
When to use it
Choosing an AC
Compare a 1.5 ton inverter and non-inverter AC.
Cutting the bill
See which appliance adds most to your bill.
Staying under 200 units
Check whether extra use pushes you out of the protected slab.
Solar planning
Work out the units you need solar to cover.
Frequently asked questions
How are units worked out?
One unit is one kilowatt-hour. Units = watts × hours ÷ 1000. A 1500 watt AC running 8 hours uses 12 units a day.
What rate per unit should I use?
Divide the total of your last bill by the units used. That gives an all-in rate including taxes, FPA and fixed charges. Rates differ by slab and DISCO.
How much does a 1.5 ton AC use?
A non-inverter 1.5 ton AC draws about 1,500 to 1,800 watts. An inverter AC averages 700 to 1,100 watts once the room is cool, depending on outside temperature.
Does a fridge run all day?
The compressor switches on and off, so a fridge running 24 hours uses roughly a third to half of its rated power on average. Enter about 8 to 12 hours.
Why does my bill jump in summer?
Higher units can move you into a higher slab, so every unit costs more. Going over 200 units also removes protected status for six months.
How do I find watts?
Check the rating plate on the back or the manual. If only amps are given, multiply amps by 230 volts.
Is an inverter AC worth it?
An inverter AC can use 30% to 50% fewer units than a non-inverter model in daily use, which often pays back the higher price within two or three summers in Pakistan.
Do appliances use power on standby?
Yes, a little. TVs, chargers, microwaves and set-top boxes can draw a few watts each on standby, adding a few units a month.
Which appliances use the most?
Air conditioners, electric heaters, geysers, irons and water motors use the most power. Fans, LED lights and phone chargers use very little.
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