Just Ask

Q: How much electricity does a computer use? How much is it if I spend 3 hours on the computer? I usually turn the computer off when I'm not using it; however, how much electricity would I use if I left it on for 8 hours?

Linda, Portage, WI

A: Our Appliance Calculator in our Tools & Calculators section can help answer your question about your computer and other home appliances of all sizes. According to the calculator, the average computer and monitor uses 170 watts of electricity. If you use it for three hours a day, it will cost you $0.055. Eight hours of usage will cost just under $0.15 a day.  

Have a question for our energy experts? Just ask!