Worked examples: Browse pre-calculated scenarios at cheap-rate-appliances, then return here to replace the assumptions with your own figures.
How this calculator works
- The calculator totals the electricity used by the appliance cycles you enter over a year.
- It values the same consumption at the peak and off-peak rates to isolate the saving created purely by changing when the appliance runs.
- This makes it easier to judge whether timers, smart controls or a time-of-use tariff are worth the effort for your usage pattern.
What can change the result
- Number of appliance cycles
- Energy used per cycle
- Peak to off-peak price spread
- How much usage can safely and practically be shifted
How to read the result
The percentage price difference can look large while the cash saving remains modest. Use the annual pounds figure to decide whether scheduling is meaningful for your household.
A useful way to stress-test the answer is to change the most uncertain input by 10 to 20% and see whether your decision still looks sensible.
Worked example
A large peak/off-peak gap can make scheduling worthwhile, but the total annual saving may still be smaller than expected.
Frequently asked questions
Does this include standby electricity?
No.
Should appliances run unattended overnight?
Follow manufacturer safety guidance; this tool only estimates energy cost.