Refrigerator electricity cost calculator
Estimate refrigerator or freezer running cost while accounting for compressor cycling rather than assuming full power all day.
Worked calculation
A complete refrigerator example
0.150 kW is multiplied by scheduled time and the 35% active-runtime assumption. The inputs are examples, not claims about every device. Replace each one with the label, meter reading, schedule, and tariff that apply to you.
Monthly kWh = rated kW × 24 hours × days × compressor duty cycle150 W · 24 hours/day · 7 days/week · 35% active
- Monthly energy
- 38.2 kWh
- Monthly cost
- US$6.88
- Annual cost
- US$82.56
Transparent method
The calculation
Monthly kWh = rated kW × 24 hours × days × compressor duty cycleRefrigerators stay connected continuously but their compressors cycle. Use rated input with an active-runtime assumption, or convert annual label consumption into a daily average.
Read the full methodology →Sensitivity check
Run three scenarios.
Efficient or cool roomTest a 25% compressor duty cycle.
Typical householdStart around 35% and compare with the energy label.
Hot room or older unitTest 50% active runtime.
Use the result well
What can change the answer?
- Door opening, ambient temperature, frost, seals, and ventilation affect cycling.
- Defrost heaters can add intermittent load.
- An annual energy label is often a better starting point than compressor wattage.
Calculation standards
Visible inputs. Reproducible results.
WhoPowerCost Lab's research desk maintains the formulas, market notes, and worked examples.
HowEnergy, tariff, and behavioural assumptions stay separate so readers can replace one input without hiding the others.
WhyThe page exists to answer an operating-cost decision. Advertising never changes a formula, default, or recommendation.