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Appliance running cost: practical guide
This guide explains how to use the Count.ie appliance running cost. Estimate electricity use with operating hours and duty cycle. Follow the inputs, method and worked example below, then compare your own scenario.
Guide written .
Open the Appliance running cost calculatorWhat to prepare
- Use meter readings, bills, equipment specifications and actual tariff periods where possible.
- Separate power in kW from energy in kWh and daily use from annual use.
- Identify whether efficiency, standing charges and losses are included in the chosen model.
Understand the inputs
The calculation method
Energy = watts ÷ 1,000 × hours × days × duty fraction. Cost = kWh × tariff.
Worked example
Illustrative inputs and their result.
Example inputs
- Rated power (W)
- 1000
- Hours per day
- 2
- Days
- 30
- Electricity price (€/kWh)
- 0.3
- Average duty cycle (%)
- 100
Calculated example result
- Running Cost
- €18.00
- Energy KWh
- 60 kWh
How to interpret the result
Energy consumption and money saved are different outputs. Results based on entered prices or efficiencies are scenarios, not a performance guarantee, installer quote or measured emissions assessment.
Use the same demand and time horizon for each option. Test a less favourable tariff, lower efficiency or lower use to see how sensitive the estimated saving is.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not count the same efficiency loss twice.
- Keep standing charges and unit charges separate when the model distinguishes them.
- Check seasonal demand, export restrictions and tariff assumptions before extrapolating.
Assumptions and sources
Duty cycle accounts for thermostatic switching. Enter the price including applicable taxes; standby use needs a separate run.
If your case falls outside this scope, use a more suitable calculator or contact us about an unclear method.