1. What is the Energy Usage Calculator?

The Energy Usage Calculator estimates electricity consumption in kilowatt-hours (kWh) based on appliance power rating and usage time. This helps Australian consumers understand and manage their energy consumption patterns.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the energy usage formula:

Where:

• \( P \) — Power consumption in Watts
• \( t \) — Time in hours
• 1000 — Conversion factor from watt-hours to kilowatt-hours

Explanation: The formula calculates energy consumption by multiplying power rating by time and converting to kilowatt-hours.

3. Importance of Energy Usage Calculation

Details: Understanding energy usage helps Australian households and businesses manage electricity costs, reduce carbon footprint, and make informed decisions about energy-efficient appliances.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter power consumption in Watts and usage time in hours. Both values must be non-negative numbers. The result shows energy consumption in kilowatt-hours (kWh).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why convert to kilowatt-hours?
A: Australian electricity bills are typically calculated in kilowatt-hours, making it the standard unit for energy consumption measurement.

Q2: How do I find the power rating of my appliance?
A: Check the manufacturer's label, specification sheet, or look for the wattage rating on the appliance itself.

Q3: What's the average power consumption for common appliances?
A: LED bulbs: 5-15W, Refrigerator: 100-400W, Washing machine: 500-1500W, Air conditioner: 1000-3500W.

Q4: How accurate is this calculation for real-world usage?
A: This provides a basic estimate. Actual consumption may vary based on appliance efficiency, usage patterns, and other factors.

Q5: Can I use this for solar power calculations?
A: Yes, the same formula applies for calculating energy production from solar panels or consumption from battery systems.