Practical energy guides for smaller homes
Estimate daily and monthly costs using your own electricity rate. Compare appliances and find practical guides for smaller homes.
Start with your question
Find your rate, then measure the appliances that matter.
Start with your electricity rateCheck room size and installation before comparing equipment.
Plan cooling that fitsExplore shading and comfort changes that suit your lease.
Explore renter-friendly changesCompare the purchase price and electricity cost together.
Compare the full costKnow before you switch on
Estimate a device’s monthly running cost with your own electricity rate.
Open the full calculator →Example inputs, not a US average. Use measured average watts for appliances that cycle.
A good place to begin
Compare window fit, floor space, installation needs and electricity cost assumptions for portable and window ACs. Use a transparent three-season example.
At an illustrative 600W average and $0.18/kWh, eight hours daily costs $25.92 over 30 days. See the assumptions and how to use your own rate.
Find renter-friendly ways to reduce heat and improve comfort without permanent alterations, from shade and airflow to a documented cooling plan.
Research-based product reviews
Room size, compatibility and running costs before you buy. These reviews use published specifications and sources; we have not tested the products hands-on. Reviews contain clearly disclosed affiliate links.
Is the Levoit Core 300S-P worth buying? Compare room-size claims, filter costs, smart controls and conflicting wattage figures before choosing a US model.
Our ecobee Smart Thermostat Enhanced review covers HVAC compatibility, C-wire and PEK checks, renter permission, optional sensors and realistic payback examples.
Should you buy the Dreo Atom One? Read our US-model review of 1500W running costs, ECO mode, placement limits and when a small space heater makes sense.
Our approach
Energy decisions depend on your home, your habits and your rate. We show the assumptions so you can make the estimate yours.
How we calculate →Before your next purchase
Compare air conditioners by room fit, capacity rating, installation, annual electricity use and total ownership cost—not purchase price alone.
Compare an old and new window AC using purchase price, annual kWh, electricity rate and ownership years before deciding whether replacement pays.
Calculate dehumidifier electricity cost from watts, runtime and your tariff, then see why humidity, capacity and cycling can change the monthly total.
Optional measurement is your choice. The site and calculators work with both options off. Privacy details.