Calculator Inputs
Example Data Table
| Application | Input Power (W) | Quantity | Hours/Day | Days/Month | Monthly kWh | Monthly Cost at $0.15/kWh |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Desk Fan | 75 | 1 | 8 | 30 | 18.00 | $2.70 |
| Wall Fan Bank | 130 | 2 | 10 | 30 | 78.00 | $11.70 |
| Axial Ventilation Fan | 450 | 1 | 16 | 26 | 187.20 | $28.08 |
| Centrifugal Process Fan | 1100 | 3 | 12 | 26 | 1029.60 | $154.44 |
Formula Used
If airflow is entered, the page also calculates specific fan power as total running kW divided by total airflow in thousand CFM.
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter a fan label so the exported report identifies the correct system.
- Choose either direct input power or electrical-value calculation mode.
- Add the number of identical fans included in the estimate.
- If using direct mode, enter measured or nameplate input watts per fan.
- If using electrical mode, provide phase, voltage, current, and power factor.
- Enter the load factor to reflect average operating load, not only full-load conditions.
- Add operating hours, standby hours, operating days per month, and electricity rate.
- Optionally enter total airflow to estimate specific fan power.
- Press the calculate button to show results above the form.
- Use the CSV or PDF buttons to export the summary for reports or records.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Should I use measured watts or nameplate watts?
Measured watts are usually better because they reflect real conditions. Nameplate watts are useful for early estimates, but they can overstate consumption if the fan usually runs below full load.
2. What does load factor mean here?
Load factor adjusts input power to reflect typical operating intensity. A fan running lightly loaded or at reduced speed often uses less than its full input rating, so this factor improves estimate quality.
3. Why include standby power?
Some systems draw power through controls, sensors, communication modules, or drives even when airflow is not being delivered. Including standby prevents underestimating monthly and annual energy use.
4. When should I use the electrical calculation mode?
Use electrical mode when you know voltage, current, and power factor but do not have measured watts. It is especially helpful for field checks, motor panels, and three-phase fan installations.
5. Does this calculator include demand charges?
No. It estimates energy consumption and energy cost using a per-kWh rate. If your utility bill includes demand charges, add a separate demand analysis using your tariff structure and interval data.
6. What is specific fan power?
Specific fan power expresses running kilowatts per thousand CFM of airflow. It helps compare systems with different capacities and can reveal opportunities for duct, control, or fan-efficiency improvements.
7. Can I use this for multiple identical fans?
Yes. Enter the total number of similar fans in the quantity field. The calculator multiplies running power, standby power, energy use, and cost to reflect the full installed group.
8. How accurate are the annual numbers?
Annual values are monthly estimates multiplied by twelve. Accuracy improves when your load factor, hours, standby values, and tariff reflect typical seasonal operation rather than idealized assumptions.