Appliance Wattage Chart

Running and starting watts for 36 common household appliances, cross-checked across published charts from Champion, Honda, Generac and EcoFlow, the U.S. DOE, and ENERGY STAR model data. Monthly costs use typical usage at the U.S. average rate (18.16¢/kWh, August 2026).

Kitchen

ApplianceRunning WStarting WTypical cost/mo
Refrigerator100–400800–2,200$6.96
Mini fridge50–100400–600$3.72
Freezer100–500500–2,200$6.28
Microwave600–1,500—$1.38
Dishwasher1,200–2,400—$3.62
Electric stove burner1,200–2,400—$8.29
Induction cooktop (single)1,000–1,800—$8.29
Toaster800–1,500—$0.61
Coffee maker800–1,500—$1.38
Electric kettle1,000–1,500—$2.07
Slow cooker200–300—$11.05
Blender300–1,000—$0.14
Electric grill1,200–1,800—$0.63

Cooling & fans

ApplianceRunning WStarting WTypical cost/mo
Window air conditioner450–1,500900–2,400$10.30
Central air conditioner2,000–5,0003,500–8,000$50.85
RV air conditioner1,500–2,5002,800–4,500$13.08
Ceiling fan15–100—$0.65
Box fan50–200—$1.45
Dehumidifier200–800—$4.77

Heating & hot water

ApplianceRunning WStarting WTypical cost/mo
Space heater750–1,500—$10.90
Furnace blower fan300–1,200800–2,500$13.08
Electric blanket50–200—$1.45
Electric water heater3,000–5,500—$74.57

Laundry

ApplianceRunning WStarting WTypical cost/mo
Washing machine350–1,0001,000–2,300$1.66
Electric clothes dryer1,800–6,000—$9.20
Clothes iron1,000–1,800—$1.66

Around the house

ApplianceRunning WStarting WTypical cost/mo
Vacuum cleaner500–1,5001,000–1,500$1.38
Hair dryer1,000–1,875—$2.07
Garage door opener300–725600–1,400$0.14

Electronics & lighting

ApplianceRunning WStarting WTypical cost/mo
TV50–200—$2.05
Laptop30–100—$2.65
Desktop computer100–400—$8.84
Wi-Fi router5–20—$1.33
LED light bulb8–15—$0.28

Pumps

ApplianceRunning WStarting WTypical cost/mo
Sump pump500–1,0501,000–2,200$4.42
Well pump250–2,0001,500–4,000$11.05

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FAQ

What's the difference between running and starting watts?

Running watts are the steady draw while an appliance operates. Starting (surge) watts are a brief spike, often 2–3x higher, when a motor or compressor starts. Generators and power stations must handle the biggest starting surge on top of everything else running.

Note: These are estimates. Real consumption depends on the exact model, its age, settings, room temperature and how you use it. For your exact number, check the appliance's label or measure it with a plug-in energy meter. Rates are August 2026 state averages from the EIA; check your bill for your actual rate. When powering appliances from a generator or power station, never exceed its rated output and follow the manufacturer's safety instructions.