Calculate your cost
Start with the example below, then replace the wattage, daily runtime, and rate with the numbers for your water dispenser.
This setup uses about 36 kWh in a 30-day month.
Please enter valid values within the ranges shown.
| Schedule | Hours/day | Cost/month |
|---|---|---|
| Half runtime | 1.5 | $3.39 |
| Page example | 3 | $6.78 |
| Longer runtime | 4.5 | $10.17 |
Same 400-watt input and 18.83¢/kWh rate; only runtime changes.
Formula for the page example
0.4 kW × 3 hr × $0.1883 = $0.23 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
Keeping a reservoir of water constantly hot and cold requires continuous cycles of heating and cooling elements.
Use this as a baseline until you can check the label or measure the water dispenser directly. Model, settings, condition, climate, and household routine can all change the result.
What changes the cost?
- 01
Hot and cold switches enabled
- 02
Insulation quality
- 03
Usage frequency
Ways to spend less
- Turn off the hot water switch if you rarely use it.
- Use a timer to turn it off at night.
- Keep it out of hot, sunny spots.