Guide 02 / 10
Reading an appliance power label accurately
Find the relevant input rating and see why a label is not the same as a real-world energy measurement.
Look for electrical input
For an electricity estimate, find input power in W or kW on the rating plate, manual, or specification sheet. Do not substitute an output figure such as brightness or cooling capacity. Those describe what a device delivers, not necessarily what it draws from an outlet.
Account for operating modes
A device may draw different power when active, on standby, or apparently off but still plugged in. Heating and cooling appliances can cycle automatically. A maximum rating can help identify an upper operating limit but may exaggerate energy use if treated as the draw at every minute.
Measure when it matters
A suitable plug-in energy meter can record kWh over several days for a device you want to compare. Follow the meter's safety instructions and stay within its capacity. Compare readings under similar usage patterns.