How much does it cost to run a security camera?
A typical security camera draws about 5 watts. Used 24 hours a day, that works out to roughly $0.02 per day, $0.62 per month, and $7.45 per year on an average electricity rate of 17¢ per kWh. Always recording, yet drawing only a few watts each.
Security Camera running cost calculator
- Per day
- $0.02
- Per month
- $0.62
- Per year
- $7.45
- CO₂ / year
- 17.5 kg
Based on 43.8 kWh per year. Adjust the price per kWh to match your latest electricity bill for an exact figure.
The number that matters most is your own electricity rate. Rates range from under 11¢ per kWh in some regions to over 30¢ in others, so the same security camera can cost two or three times as much depending on where you live. Enter your exact rate in the calculator above to get a figure tailored to your bill.
Over a full year this security camera uses about 43.8 kWh of electricity and is responsible for roughly 17.5 kg of CO₂ emissions on an average grid. Reducing run time, or switching to a more efficient model, lowers both the cost and the footprint.
If this security camera is one you use daily, even small efficiency gains compound. Cutting its usage or wattage by 20% would save around $1.49 every year — money that an efficient replacement can recover over its lifetime.
Frequently asked questions
- How much does it cost to run a security camera per hour?
- At 5 watts and a 17¢/kWh rate, a security camera costs about $0.00 per hour to run.
- How much electricity does a security camera use per month?
- Running 24 hours a day, a security camera uses roughly 3.6 kWh per month, costing about $0.62.
- Is a security camera expensive to run?
- Not particularly — at around $7.45 per year, a security camera is a relatively minor part of most electricity bills.
- How can I reduce my security camera running costs?
- Use it during off-peak hours if your utility offers time-of-use pricing, reduce daily run time, and consider an ENERGY STAR rated security camera, which uses less power for the same job.