Evaporative Cooler in Richmond — $58/yr to Run (15.2¢/kWh)
Your evaporative cooler in Richmond costs about $5/month at 15.2¢/kWh. See daily, monthly, and yearly costs, plus tips to cut your bill.
Richmond, VA Electricity Rate
15.2¢/kWh
Utility: Dominion Energy Virginia
+17% vs national avg
National avg: 13.0¢/kWh
Daily Cost
$0.49
3.2 kWh/day
Monthly Cost
$4.86
32 kWh/mo
Annual Cost
$58
384 kWh/yr
Lifetime (15yr)
$874
energy only
Monthly Cost Breakdown in Richmond
| Period | kWh | Richmond Cost | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Daily | 3.2 | $0.49 | $0.42 | +$0.07 |
| Weekly | 22.4 | $3.40 | $2.91 | +$0.49 |
| Monthly | 32.0 | $4.86 | $4.16 | +$0.70 |
| Quarterly | 96.0 | $14.57 | $12.48 | +$2.09 |
| Annual | 384.0 | $58.29 | $49.92 | +$8.37 |
Customize Your Evaporative Cooler Cost
Adjust usage hours and electricity rate to calculate your exact cost in Richmond.
Daily
$0.49
Monthly
$4.86
Annual
$58
15-Year
$874
Energy Saving Tips for Evaporative Cooler in Richmond
- ✓Richmond electricity rates are 17% above the national average — energy efficiency matters more here.
- ✓Richmond's warm climate (avg 67.9°F) means higher cooling costs — consider ceiling fans to supplement.
- ✓Best in dry climates below 50% humidity
- ✓Keep water pads clean
- ✓Open windows for airflow
Highest-Cost Appliances in Richmond, VA
See which appliances cost the most to run at Richmond's 15.2¢/kWh electricity rate.
Level 2 EV Charger (240V)
Transportation · 7,200W
$1,967/yr
$163.94/mo
Electric Furnace
HVAC · 10,000W
$1,366/yr
$113.85/mo
Electric Tankless Water Heater
Water Heating · 18,000W
$997/yr
$83.11/mo
EV Charger (Level 2)
Garage · 7,200W
$984/yr
$81.97/mo
Boiler (Electric)
HVAC · 6,000W
$820/yr
$68.31/mo
Electric Water Heater (Tank)
Water Heating · 4,500W
$748/yr
$62.33/mo
Water Heater (Tank Electric)
Water Heating · 4,500W
$748/yr
$62.33/mo
Heat Pump
HVAC · 2,400W
$583/yr
$48.58/mo
Evaporative Cooler Cost in Other Virginia Cities
| City | Rate | Annual Cost | vs Richmond |
|---|---|---|---|
| Richmond (current) | 15.2¢ | $58 | — |
| Virginia Beach | 15.2¢ | $58 | — |
| Chesapeake | 13.1¢ | $50 | $-8 |
| Arlington | 13.7¢ | $53 | $-6 |
| Norfolk | 13.6¢ | $52 | $-6 |
| Newport News | 14.0¢ | $54 | $-4 |
| Alexandria | 12.8¢ | $49 | $-9 |
| Hampton | 13.7¢ | $53 | $-6 |
| Roanoke | 13.6¢ | $52 | $-6 |
Evaporative Cooler Energy Cost FAQ — Richmond, VA
Understanding Evaporative Cooler Energy Costs in Richmond, VA
Richmond is a mid-sized Virginia city where residential electricity rates from Dominion Energy Virginia are shaped by regional energy supply and local demand patterns. Running a low-draw appliance like the Evaporative Cooler (400W) at Richmond's rate of 15.2¢/kWh costs approximately $58 per year — $8 more than the national average of $50.
Richmond rates are 17% above the national average — a modest premium that adds $8 per year to Evaporative Cooler operating costs. Over the appliance's 15-year lifespan, that's $126 in cumulative extra spending versus the national average.
With a cost of living index of 108, Richmond is near the national median. The Evaporative Cooler's monthly cost of $4.86 represents a typical share of the average Richmond electric bill of $146/month. Since no ENERGY STAR or smart version is currently available for this appliance, reducing usage hours is the primary way to cut costs.
Richmond's moderate climate (avg 67.9°F) helps keep seasonal energy cost swings manageable for most appliances. A Evaporative Cooler produces approximately 0.27 tons of CO2 annually at typical usage. Richmond residents can reduce this footprint by optimizing usage patterns, or investing in solar — see our solar savings calculator for Richmond.
Compare All Energy Costs in Richmond
See energy costs for 178+ household appliances at Richmond's local electricity rate.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to run an Evaporative Cooler in Richmond, VA?
At Richmond's average electricity rate of 15.2¢/kWh, an Evaporative Cooler costs approximately $58 per year to run. That's about $4.86 per month with typical usage of 8 hours per day.
What is the electricity rate in Richmond, VA?
The average residential electricity rate in Richmond, VA is 15.2¢/kWh, which is 17% above the national average of 13.0¢/kWh. The primary utility provider is Dominion Energy Virginia.
How much electricity does an Evaporative Cooler use per year?
A Evaporative Cooler uses approximately 400 watts and consumes about 384 kWh per year with typical usage of 8 hours/day for 120 days/year.
Is an Evaporative Cooler expensive to run in Richmond?
Compared to the national average cost of $50/year, running an Evaporative Cooler in Richmond costs $8 more per year due to higher local electricity rates.
How can I reduce my Evaporative Cooler energy cost in Richmond?
To reduce Evaporative Cooler costs in Richmond: Best in dry climates below 50% humidity. Keep water pads clean. Consider using a smart plug to monitor and optimize usage. Also check with Dominion Energy Virginia for local energy efficiency rebates and programs.