Heating
Electric Heater Cost Calculator UK
Use this calculator to estimate the running cost of a fan heater, convector heater, panel heater or oil-filled radiator.
Estimated running cost
- Per hour
- 49.34p
- Per day
- 49.34p
- Per week
- £3.45
- Per month
- £14.8
- Per year
- £180.09
Formula: heater wattage ÷ 1,000 × hours used × electricity price.
Cost table
| Scenario | Power | Use time | Cost at 24.67p/kWh |
|---|---|---|---|
| 500W heater | 500W | 1 hours | 12.34p |
| 1,000W heater | 1,000W | 1 hours | 24.67p |
| 1,500W heater | 1,500W | 1 hours | 37.01p |
| 2,000W heater | 2,000W | 1 hours | 49.34p |
| 2,500W heater | 2,500W | 1 hours | 61.67p |
Formula
heater wattage ÷ 1,000 × hours used × electricity price = running cost
For example, a 2,000W electric heater used for 1 hour at 24.67p/kWh costs 2 x 1 x 24.67p = 49.34p.
Ways to reduce the cost
- Use a thermostat or timer so the heater is not running continuously.
- Heat the occupied room only, then close doors to retain warmth.
- Check draughts around windows and doors before increasing the setting.
- Compare with gas central heating when heating several rooms.
FAQs
Is a 2kW heater expensive to run?
At 24.67p/kWh, a 2kW heater costs about 49p per hour before any standing charge.
Is an oil-filled radiator cheaper than a fan heater?
For the same wattage and run time the electricity cost is the same. Comfort and thermostat behaviour can differ.
Is it cheaper to heat one room or the whole house?
For short periods, heating one occupied room can be cheaper than heating the whole home.
Can I change the tariff?
Yes. Enter your own pence-per-kWh rate if your tariff differs from the Ofgem average.
Last reviewed 3 May 2026. Source: Ofgem energy price cap. Figures are estimates. Actual prices vary by region, supplier, tariff, payment method and meter type.