3D Printer Electricity Cost Calculator

Start with our example, then enter your own numbers.
All money inputs use the selected currency. Currency changes the label only.

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02 / Energy

Estimate your electricity use

Estimate the energy and electricity bill for one print or a group of printers. Use your measured average power and the rate from your own bill.

Use measured average draw, not maximum rated power.
Total powered run time.
From your electricity bill.
Assumes the same average power and run time.
Calculate to see energy use and cost.

Worked example

At the starting values, one printer averaging 150 W for 10 hours uses 1.5 kWh. At $0.20/kWh, the electricity costs $0.30. Three identical printers running for the same time use 4.5 kWh and cost $0.90.

Example money amounts are in USD. Reset the calculator to restore its starting inputs.

How the calculation works

Energy (kWh) = average watts ÷ 1,000 × run hours × number of printers. Electricity cost = energy × price per kWh.

Assumptions and limits

Every printer in this estimate has the same average power draw and run time. The calculation covers electricity only. It does not include machine ownership, labor, material, fixed utility charges or separate equipment unless you include its measured power and operating time. Example rates are illustrative, not current local utility rates.

Frequently asked questions

Should I use the wattage on the power supply?

Use measured average power during a representative run where possible. A maximum rating is not a measurement of normal use. Heating, movement and idle periods can draw different amounts of power.

Where do I find my electricity rate?

Look for the variable price per kilowatt-hour on your electricity bill. Include relevant usage-based charges if you want them in the estimate. A fixed monthly charge is not a per-kWh rate.

Can I calculate a whole print farm?

Yes, for matching power and hours. Enter the number of printers. For different machines or workloads, calculate each group separately and add the results.

Does this include a dryer, enclosure heater or ventilation?

Only if its consumption is included in the average power you enter. Separate equipment with a different run time needs its own calculation.

Why is electricity cheaper than my full print price?

Electricity is one component. Materials, machine wear, labor, failed attempts and other costs belong in the print pricing calculator.