Molly Ayala
Electric heaters are designed to save money on heating by targeting specific rooms. The cost of running an electric heater depends on usage and the electricity rate. Halogen heaters are the cheapest to run, while convection heaters are more expensive. The average 1500-watt space heater costs $0.20 per hour to run. A small space heater could cost $0.12 per hour to run, while a large plenum heater could cost $16.90 per hour.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cost of running a space heater | Depends on usage and the electricity rate charged by the energy company |
| Average cost of electricity in the U.S. | 16 ¢/kWh |
| Average cost of electricity in Vancouver, Washington | 8 ¢/kWh |
| Average wattage of a space heater | 1500 watts |
| Average cost of running a 1500-watt space heater | $0.20 per hour |
| Average cost of running a space heater for 8 hours a day | $1.60 per day |
| Average monthly cost of running a space heater for 8 hours a day | $33.60 |
| Average wattage of a small space heater | 1500W |
| Average cost of running a small space heater at 0.08 per kWh | $0.12 per hour |
| Average wattage of a large plenum heater | 38,400W |
| Average cost of running a large plenum heater at $0.44 per kWh | $16.90 per hour |
| Average wattage of a halogen heater | 1200W |
| Average wattage of a convection heater | 2000W |
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What You'll Learn
Halogen heaters are the cheapest to run
The cost of running an electric heater depends on several factors, including the type of heater, its energy efficiency, electricity rates, and usage frequency. While some heaters are more energy-efficient and better at retaining heat, halogen heaters are the cheapest to run due to their lower power output.
Halogen heaters derive their name from the halogen element inside the bulb or lamp, which, when combined with electricity, emits radiant warmth. This type of heat is perfect for swiftly warming a small, targeted area or a single person but is less effective at evenly heating an entire room. With a typical power output of 1200W, halogen heaters provide instant heat at close quarters, so you don't need to leave them on for extended periods, saving energy and cost.
The cost of electricity is measured in kilowatts per hour (kWh) for a standard rate, and the average cost of electricity in the US is 16 ¢/kWh. However, rates can vary depending on your supplier and location. For example, in England, Scotland, and Wales, the rate is 27.03p per kWh as of April 1, 2025. To estimate the cost of running a halogen heater, you can calculate the kilowatts by multiplying amps and volts and dividing by 1000.
It's important to note that electric heaters can become expensive if used for long periods due to the higher cost of electricity compared to gas. Additionally, space heaters can be dangerous if used incorrectly, as heating equipment is a leading cause of fires in homes. Therefore, it's essential to follow safety precautions, such as maintaining a safe distance from flammable objects and unplugging the heater when not in use.
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Space heaters are more cost-effective than central heating
The cost-effectiveness of space heaters and central heating depend on a variety of factors, including the size of the heater, the electric rate, and the duration of usage. Space heaters are generally more cost-effective than central heating when heating a small space or targeting specific areas. Here are some reasons why:
Lower Upfront Cost
Space heaters have a lower upfront cost compared to central heating systems. This makes them a more accessible option for those who need a quick solution for heating a small space without a large initial investment.
Targeted Heating
Space heaters allow you to target specific rooms or areas that you are currently using, rather than heating multiple rooms that may not be occupied. This targeted approach can lead to significant cost savings, especially if you only need to heat a small portion of your home.
Flexibility and Control
Space heaters offer flexibility and control over the heating of specific areas. If you have a small space or want more control over the temperature in different rooms, a space heater can be a suitable choice. You can adjust the heat settings on the space heater to suit your comfort level in that particular room.
Energy Savings
To maximize energy savings when using a space heater, it is important to practice energy-saving habits. This includes proper insulation, sealing drafts, and maintaining your heating equipment. By combining space heaters with energy-saving practices, you can further reduce heating costs and make your space heaters even more cost-effective compared to central heating.
Cost Calculation
To determine the cost-effectiveness of a space heater, you can perform a simple calculation. Take two readings from your electric meter, one at the beginning and another after a 24-hour period of using the space heater. Subtract the first reading from the second to get the kilowatt-hours used in that period. Multiply this number by 30 to estimate the monthly usage, and then multiply by your rate per kilowatt-hour to get the monthly cost of using the space heater.
In summary, space heaters can be more cost-effective than central heating when you need to heat a small space or target specific rooms. They offer flexibility, control, and a lower upfront cost. However, it is important to consider energy consumption and operating costs over time, as well as practice energy-saving habits, to make the most of your space heaters and keep costs down.
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Electric heaters can be expensive to run for long periods
The average cost of electricity in the US is 16 ¢/kWh, but this can vary depending on the supplier. In some states, electric rates can change based on the time of day or increase once a certain kW threshold is reached per month. The cost of running an electric heater for an hour straight will also depend on the size of the room and the desired temperature. If the outside temperature is 20° F and you want a room temperature of 70° F, the heater may run for a full hour. However, if the outside temperature is 45° F and you want a room temperature of 55° F, the heater may only run for 20 minutes, reducing the overall electricity usage and cost.
To save on energy costs, it is recommended to use sweaters or blankets instead of turning on the heater, especially at night. Space heaters are designed to heat specific rooms, so it is important to keep the doors of the rooms closed to avoid heat leakage. Additionally, halogen heaters are one of the most inexpensive types of electric heaters as they provide instant heat at close quarters, meaning they do not need to be left on for long periods.
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The cost of running a heater depends on its wattage
The cost of running an electric heater depends on its wattage, the local rate of electricity, and how long it is used for.
Electric heaters vary in wattage, with some small space heaters operating at 750 watts, and larger heaters requiring up to 38,400 watts. The wattage of an electric heater will determine how much electricity it uses, with more kilowatts indicating more electricity usage.
The average cost of electricity in the US is 16 ¢/kWh, but this can vary depending on the electricity supplier and the state. For example, in Vancouver, Washington, the local electric provider charges 8 cents per kW for residential customers.
To calculate the cost of running an electric heater, you can multiply the number of watts by the number of hours used and divide by 1000 to get the kilowatt-hours. This number can then be multiplied by the cost of electricity per kilowatt-hour to get the total cost.
For example, a 1500-watt heater running for 8 hours per day at a rate of 16 ¢/kWh would cost $1.60 per day, or approximately $33.60 per month.
It is important to note that the cost of running an electric heater can also depend on other factors, such as the temperature outside and the desired temperature inside, as well as the size of the room and the efficiency of the heater.
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The cost of running a heater depends on your electricity rate
The cost of running an electric heater depends on several factors, including the size of the heater, the wattage, the electricity rate, and the duration of use. Let's focus on the impact of electricity rates on the cost of running a heater.
Electricity rates vary depending on your location and electricity supplier. In the United States, the average cost of electricity is 16 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh). However, rates can be as low as 8 cents per kWh in some areas, such as Vancouver, Washington. On the other hand, high-use tiered plans or rates in certain regions, like coastal areas, can be significantly higher, reaching up to 44 cents per kWh.
To calculate the cost of running a heater, you need to know the wattage of the heater and the electricity rate charged by your supplier. The wattage of electric heaters can range from 750 watts for smaller heaters to 38,400 watts for large plenum heaters. For example, if you have a 1500-watt heater and an electricity rate of 16 cents per kWh, the cost to run the heater for one hour would be 1500 watts divided by 1000, multiplied by 16 cents, resulting in a cost of 24 cents per hour.
It's important to note that the cost of running a heater can also depend on other factors, such as the number of hours the heater is used per day and the temperature settings. Additionally, some heaters have built-in thermostat controls and timers, allowing you to regulate power output and usage duration, which can help reduce overall costs.
To estimate the monthly cost of running a heater, you can calculate the average number of hours the heater is used per day and multiply it by the hourly cost based on your electricity rate. For example, if you use a 1500-watt heater for 8 hours a day at an electricity rate of 16 cents per kWh, the daily cost would be $1.92, and the monthly cost (for a 30-day month) would be approximately $57.60.
In summary, the cost of running a heater depends on your electricity rate, and by understanding the wattage of your heater and your electricity supplier's rates, you can calculate the approximate cost of using a heater over a specific period.
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Frequently asked questions
This depends on the size of the heater, the wattage, and the electric rate for your utility. For example, a small space heater of 1500 watts could cost $0.12 per hour with a cheap midwest rate of $0.08 per kWh. A larger heater of 3000 watts may be more suitable for a living room and could cost $0.24 per hour with the same rate.
Halogen heaters are one of the most inexpensive types of electric heater due to their lower power output, averaging around 1200W. They provide instant heat so they don't need to be left on for long periods.
Wear extra clothing or use blankets to keep warm instead of turning on the heater. Keep doors closed so heat doesn't leak out to other rooms. Use your heater efficiently and avoid wasting heat. Insulate your space well so that you don't need to constantly run your heater.
