Calculate your cost
Start with the example below, then replace the wattage, daily runtime, and rate with the numbers for your hair dryer.
This setup uses about 14 kWh in a 30-day month.
Please enter valid values within the ranges shown.
| Schedule | Hours/day | Cost/month |
|---|---|---|
| Half runtime | 0.13 | $1.27 |
| Page example | 0.25 | $2.54 |
| Longer runtime | 0.38 | $3.81 |
Same 1,800-watt input and 18.83¢/kWh rate; only runtime changes.
Formula for the page example
1.8 kW × 0.25 hr × $0.1883 = $0.08 per day
Convert watts to kilowatts, multiply by the active hours used each day, then multiply by the electricity price in dollars per kWh. Multiply the daily result by 30 for the monthly estimate shown above.
How to read this estimate
A hair dryer uses a lot of power to run a heating element and a fan simultaneously. Fortunately, it is usually only on for a few minutes a day, keeping the monthly cost relatively small.
Use this as a baseline until you can check the label or measure the hair dryer directly. Model, settings, condition, climate, and household routine can all change the result.
What changes the cost?
- 01
Heat and fan speed settings used
- 02
Total minutes used per day
- 03
Maximum wattage rating of the dryer
Ways to spend less
- Towel-dry hair thoroughly before using the electric dryer.
- Use a lower heat or speed setting when possible.
- Clean the rear air intake screen to maintain airflow.