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Appliance running cost calculator

Written by James Whitfield · Updated 28 October 2026 · 6 min read · Checked against 2026/27 DWP & HMRC rates
Contents (3 sections)
  1. Quick answer: how to work out running costs
  2. Where to find the numbers
  3. Who these figures cover
Quick answer: how to work out running costs
  • Running cost = power in kilowatts x hours used x your unit rate.
  • At the average Ofgem cap rate of 26.32p per kWh (1 October to 31 December 2026), a 2 kW appliance used for 3 hours costs £1.58.1
  • Last checked: 28 October 2026.

Work out the running cost

Change the power, the hours or your region. The cost updates straight away.

The power is on the appliance's rating plate or in its manual, in watts (W) or kilowatts (1 kW = 1,000 W).

An hour1.1p
A day3.3p
A week23.2p
A month (x 52 / 12)£1.01

42 W x 3 hours x 26.32p per kWh = 3.3p a day

At full rated power, using the Ofgem price cap unit rate for 1 October to 31 December 2026. A thermostat that switches the appliance off part of the time makes the real cost lower. Standing charges are not included: you pay them whatever you use.

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Where to find the numbers

The power is on the appliance's rating plate, usually on the back or underneath, or in its manual. It is shown in watts (W) or kilowatts (kW).

Your unit rate is on your energy bill or in your supplier's app, in pence per kWh. If you are on the price cap, choose your region and how you pay above.

Who these figures cover

The regional rates are Ofgem's price cap for England, Scotland and Wales, 1 October to 31 December 2026, for a single-rate electricity tariff.1 In Northern Ireland, or on a fixed or multi-rate tariff, use the rate on your bill.

There is no VAT on household electricity in England, Scotland and Wales.1 HMRC: “The temporary zero rate applies from 1 October 2026 to 30 June 2027.” The Budget on 28 October 2026 extended it from 31 March (announced; the legislation is due in early 2027). Gas stays at 5% VAT.2

Frequently asked questions

How do I work out how much an appliance costs to run?
Multiply its power in kilowatts by the hours you use it and by your unit rate. At 26.32p per kWh, 1 kW for one hour costs 26.3p.
Does the standing charge count?
No. You pay the daily standing charge whatever you use, so it is not part of the extra cost of switching an appliance on.
Is the price cap the same everywhere?
No. Ofgem sets a cap for each region and payment method, so the unit rate differs. Choose your region in the calculator.
What if I am on Economy 7 or a fixed tariff?
Use the unit rate on your bill, for the time of day you use the appliance.

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Sources & references

The figures and rules in this guide are drawn from the official UK government sources below. Rates are the confirmed 2026/27 amounts. Each link opens the relevant official page in a new tab.

  1. Ofgem: Energy price cap unit rates and standing charges, 1 October to 31 December 2026 www.ofgem.gov.uk/your-energy-supply/your-energy-bill/energy-price-cap-unit-rates-and-standing-charges
  2. HMRC: VAT on fuel and power (Notice 701/19), updated 28 October 2026 www.gov.uk/guidance/vat-on-fuel-and-power-notice-70119
Verified against published UK government guidance.
Independent guide only. Written using published 2026/27 DWP and HMRC figures. Not an official government service. For case-specific guidance, contact Citizens Advice or a welfare-rights adviser. Methodology · Editorial standards

Written and reviewed by James Whitfield and the editorial team.

Every figure is checked against current GOV.UK guidance and reviewed for the 2026/27 tax year. We explain the numbers in plain English with worked examples. Editorial standards · About us