How Much Does It Cost to Run Cable Box?
A DVR cable box barely powers down: it draws nearly the same watts at 3 a.m. as during prime time, all year. At the US-average rate of 16.5¢/kWh, running a cable box costs about $3.01/month ($36.09/year) at typical use. Adjust the watts, hours, and your rate below for your exact number.
Cost to run a cable box
$36/yr
- Per day
- $0.10
- Per month
- $3.01
- Energy per year
- 219 kWh
Cost = power (kW) × hours × days × your rate. Defaults are typical values — enter your appliance's actual watts (often on a label) and your real rate for a precise figure.
Cost to run a cable box by electricity rate
Same 25 W appliance, 24 h/day — the bill changes with where you live.
| Scenario | Rate | Per month | Per year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cheapest states (North Dakota) | 11.5¢ | $2.10 | $25.21 |
| US average | 16.5¢ | $3.01 | $36.09 |
| Most expensive (Hawaii) | 42.9¢ | $7.82 | $93.86 |
Find your state's rate on the electricity rates by state page, or see the appliance wattage chart for more devices.
Frequently asked questions
At the US-average residential rate of 16.5¢/kWh, a cable box drawing 25 watts for about 24 hours a day costs roughly $0.10 per day, $3.01 per month, and $36.09 per year. Your actual cost depends on your electricity rate and how much you use it — adjust both in the calculator above.
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