How to Calculate Power Cost

Power cost is a very important calculation for any home owner or lessee. This calculation is a simple one which can be performed in a few minutes given the right information. The calculation of your power cost can be expressed as a linear function, or a linear equation, in the forms f(x) = mx+b and y = mx+b, respectively. In this calculation, "m" is the cost per unit of power, "x" is the total power used and "b" is incidental costs such as monthly service fees. Using this formula, you can get a very close approximation of your expected electrical bill.

Instructions

1. Collect the pertinent data you require for working this expression. For this you will need the cost per unit of power, monthly service fees and the estimated power consumption.

2. Write the above equation on paper and substitute the m, x and b for cost per unit of power, estimated power consumption and incidental costs, respectively.

3. Solve the equation by multiplying cost by consumption then adding incidentals.

4. Place your result on the left side of the equation in place of the y value. This value is the cost of your power for any given period of power usage.

Tips & Warnings

• Power prices are subject to change depending on the time of day in some service areas. Check with your provider for exact costs per unit of energy.

References

• Huntsville Utilities: "How To Calculate Your Bill"