What can be used to determine the electrical consumption of an appliance?

Referencing the label or energy guide sticker is the most reliable method for determining the electrical consumption of an appliance. These labels typically provide critical information such as the wattage and energy efficiency ratings, which are essential for understanding how much electricity the appliance uses under normal operating conditions.

This data is usually standardized and allows for easy comparison between different appliances. By looking at the label, one can find not just the power rating but also estimated annual energy consumption in kilowatt-hours (kWh), which can help consumers make informed choices about energy use and costs.

Utilizing a multimeter would only measure current at a specific moment, rather than giving a comprehensive understanding of overall energy consumption, and estimating based on the size of an appliance lacks precision since different models and technologies can vary widely in efficiency. Similarly, looking up average energy use statistics may not accurately reflect the actual consumption of a specific appliance being assessed. Thus, the label or energy guide sticker remains the most straightforward and accurate resource for determining energy consumption.