Watts to kWh
kWh = (W ÷ 1,000) × hours × load factor. Multiply kWh by your electricity price to estimate energy cost.
🧊 Worked example
How much electricity does a refrigerator use?
Divide label kWh/year by 12 for an indicative monthly average. Replace example inputs with your own usage pattern.
1.01 kWhper day of use
6.05 €per month at 0.20 €/kWh
Worked example
120 W × 24 h/day × 35 % load factor × 30 days.
30.24 kWh/month · 72.58 €/year
This is an energy-only estimate. Your bill can also include standing charges, taxes and other household consumption.
Typical reference range
Use the label, manual or manufacturer data for your exact model whenever possible.
| Type or situation | Indicative reference |
|---|---|
| Efficient modern fridge | 80–120 W while compressor runs |
| Typical fridge-freezer | 100–180 W while compressor runs |
| Large / American style | 150–300+ W while compressor runs |
What changes the result?
Rated watts are only one part of the calculation.
Measure when possible
Thermostats, compressors, inverter control and programmes can make real consumption lower or higher than a simple maximum-power estimate.
Practical checks
- Do not estimate from rated watts multiplied by 24 hours at 100 %.
- Keep ventilation around the appliance clear.
- Use annual kWh from the energy label when available.
Compare more appliances
Return to the appliance library or use the general electricity calculator for any device.
NEXT STEP
Keep exploring
BRICODATO · PRACTICAL CHECK
Check the real energy use of your refrigerator
A refrigerator is powered around the clock but the compressor cycles. The label's annual kWh figure is a better comparison starting point than rated compressor watts times 24 hours. A single-hour plug-meter snapshot misses door opening, defrosting and room-temperature effects.
Checklist to reproduce the comparison
- Divide label kWh/year by 12 for an indicative monthly average.
- Check door seals, ventilation clearance and suitable internal settings.
- Meter several days with an appropriate, safely rated device.
The figures elsewhere on this page are illustrative assumptions, not a measured average for every model. Use the label, your actual cycle count and safely collected kWh readings.