How to Use the Calculator
- Enter your daily hot water usage in gallons. A typical household uses between 50-100 gallons per day.
- Select your water heater type (electric, natural gas, propane, or oil).
- Input your heater's efficiency percentage. Newer heaters typically range from 90-98% efficiency.
- Enter the current price of your energy source per unit (e.g., $0.15 per kWh for electricity or $1.20 per therm for natural gas).
- Click the "Calculate" button to see your estimated annual, monthly costs, and daily energy consumption.
Understanding the Results
The calculator provides an estimate of your water heating costs based on your usage patterns and energy prices. The annual cost is calculated by multiplying your daily usage by 365 days, adjusting for heater efficiency, and multiplying by your energy price.
Energy Source Information
- Electric Water Heaters: Typically more expensive to operate than gas heaters, but offer better control and longer lifespans.
- Natural Gas Water Heaters: Generally the most cost-effective option if available in your area.
- Propane Water Heaters: Similar to natural gas but may be more expensive depending on local availability.
- Oil Water Heaters: Usually the most expensive option but can be more efficient in some areas.
Note: This calculator provides estimates based on average usage patterns. Your actual costs may vary based on specific circumstances, appliance age, and local energy rates.