Appliance Energy Payback Calculator
Determine how long it takes for a new energy-efficient appliance to pay for itself through utility savings compared to your current appliance.
Appliance Details
Select to auto-fill typical values, then adjust
Check energy label or manual
Look for ENERGY STAR models
For always-on appliances
Refrigerators: 24h, AC: 6-8h
US average: $0.12/kWh
Include delivery/installation if applicable
Typical Usage
ENERGY STAR appliances use 10-50% less energy than standard models. Use hours per day for always-on appliances, or hours per week/month for periodic use.
- • Refrigerator: 24 hours/day (always on)
- • Washer/Dryer: 4-6 hours/week
- • Dishwasher: 7-10 hours/week
- • AC: 6-10 hours/day (seasonal)
How to Use
- Select an appliance type or enter custom wattages
- Enter your usage hours and electricity rate
- Click Calculate to see payback period and savings
FAQ
When should I replace an old appliance?
Consider replacing appliances that are 10-15+ years old, need frequent repairs, or use significantly more energy than modern models. If repair costs exceed 50% of a new appliance, replacement usually makes sense.
How do I find my appliance's wattage?
Check the yellow EnergyGuide label, the appliance's data plate (usually on the back or inside door), or the owner's manual. You can also use a plug-in electricity monitor to measure actual usage.
How do I estimate usage hours?
For always-on appliances (refrigerators), use 24 hours/day. For periodic appliances, multiply uses by run time: if you run 5 washer loads per week at 1 hour each, that's 5 hours/week.