Energy Comparisons

What you choose for your systems and appliances in your home affects your energy costs for years to come. Having some knowledge of how much energy costs will help you make good decisions.

Energy for your home and appliances can be measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units). One Mcf of natural gas is approximately 1,000,000 (1 million) BTUs of energy. One Kwhr of electricity is approximately 3,400 BTUs of energy.

When you convert that to cost at current rates, natural gas is approximately $10.67 for 1 million BTU and electricity is approximately $38.24. Below are some other comparisons.

Look for the bright yellow Energy Guide on appliances. If you’ve shopped for appliances, you’ve probably seen the label that tells you how much energy each appliance uses. But did you know that the Energy Guide label can help you compare the energy use of similar models as you shop?

That’s important because the more energy efficient an appliance is, the less it costs to run, and the lower your utility bills might be.

For example, a typical 40-gallon natural gas water heater may have an Energy Guide label showing an Estimated Yearly Energy Cost of $277, while a 40-gallon electric water heater may show an Estimated Yearly Energy Cost of $573.

The same comparisons can be made for other appliances and fuel types.