Cooking
Slow Cooker Cost Calculator UK
Estimate the cost of cooking with a slow cooker, including long low-power sessions.
Estimated running cost
- Per hour
- 4.93p
- Per day
- 14.80p
- Per week
- £1.04
- Per month
- £4.44
- Per year
- £54.03
Formula: slow cooker wattage ÷ 1,000 × cooking hours × electricity price.
Cost table
| Scenario | Power | Use time | Cost at 24.67p/kWh |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low setting, 120W for 8 hours | 120W | 8 hours | 23.68p |
| Typical setting, 200W for 6 hours | 200W | 6 hours | 29.60p |
| High setting, 300W for 4 hours | 300W | 4 hours | 29.60p |
Formula
slow cooker wattage ÷ 1,000 × cooking hours × electricity price = running cost
For example, a 200W slow cooker used for 6 hours at 24.67p/kWh costs 0.2 x 6 x 24.67p = 29.60p.
Ways to reduce the cost
- Keep the lid on to avoid heat loss.
- Cook enough portions to reheat later.
- Match cooker size to the amount of food.
- Use the low setting when recipe and food safety allow.
FAQs
Is a slow cooker cheaper than an oven?
Often for stews and batch cooking, because wattage is much lower.
Does long cooking make it expensive?
Long time matters, but low wattage keeps total kWh modest.
Can I leave it on all day?
Use only according to manufacturer guidance and food safety rules.
Does this include reheating?
No. Add separate microwave or hob reheating if needed.
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.