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What does that thing actually cost you a year?
A device that draws 5 watts doing nothing costs you more over a year than one that draws 500 watts for ten minutes a day. Here is the arithmetic.
Some things that surprise people
| Device | Typical draw | Try it |
|---|
Questions people ask
Where do I find the watts?
On the label, in the manual, or from a smart plug that measures power. If you have one, use the real reading: manufacturers quote the peak, not what it actually draws.
Should I count standby?
Yes, and it is usually the number that surprises people. Something drawing 3 W around the clock uses 26 kWh a year without ever being switched on.
What price should I use?
The full price per kWh from your bill, including taxes and fixed charges spread over your usage — not just the raw energy rate.