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How much does a plug-in heater cost to run?
Desk research, not a hands-on test · Last reviewed · Disclosure
The running cost of any plug-in heater, including the Keilini Heater Pro, comes down to three numbers: its wattage, how long you use it, and your electricity unit rate.
The formula
Cost (£) = (watts ÷ 1,000) × hours × unit rate (£/kWh)
Worked examples
These examples assume an illustrative 25p per kWh and full power throughout. They are estimates, not measurements, and are not specific to any product.
| Heater power | Per hour | 4 hours a day for 30 days |
|---|---|---|
| 500W | 12.5p | £15.00 |
| 1,000W | 25p | £30.00 |
| 2,000W | 50p | £60.00 |
Your real rate depends on your supplier and tariff. See Ofgem's price cap guide. The daily standing charge is paid whether or not you use the heater.
Calculate your own cost
The Keilini seller uses 500W in an illustrative example, but does not publish the Pro’s rated wattage. Do not assume it is a 500W heater. Use the power shown on your unit’s rating label and your own electricity tariff.
Running-cost estimator
Enter all three values to see an estimate.
Formula: (watts ÷ 1,000) × hours × unit rate. This assumes the heater draws its full rated power the whole time. A thermostat or lower setting may reduce actual use. Your daily standing charge is paid regardless and is not included. This is an estimate, not a measured result.
Is a plug-in heater cheaper than central heating?
Usually not for heating a whole home. CAP advice notes that gas is currently cheaper than electricity. A small heater can make sense if you only need to warm yourself in one room for a short time.
From £59.98 · Free tracked UK delivery advertised. Confirm the final total, plug and wattage before you pay.
Check Current Price →Frequently asked questions
›How much does a 500W heater cost per hour?
At an example rate of 25p per kWh, a 500W heater at full power uses 0.5 kWh an hour, costing about 12.5p. Use the rate from your own bill.
›How much does a 2kW heater cost per hour?
At an example rate of 25p per kWh, a 2,000W heater at full power uses 2 kWh an hour, costing about 50p.
›Are plug-in heaters expensive to run?
Per unit of heat, standard-rate electricity usually costs more than gas central heating. Small heaters cost less per hour than big ones because they produce less heat.
›Do plug-in heaters use a lot of electricity?
They use exactly their rated wattage while heating at full power. A thermostat can cut this by switching the heater on and off.
›Is a ceramic heater cheaper to run?
Not per unit of heat. All electric resistance heaters are nearly 100% efficient at turning electricity into heat. The difference is how quickly and where they deliver it.