Electric heater electricity cost calculator
Calculate the running cost of portable heaters, panel heaters, oil-filled radiators, and other resistive electric heating.
Worked calculation
A complete electric heater example
2.000 kW is multiplied by scheduled time and the 80% active-runtime assumption. The inputs are examples, not claims about every device. Replace each one with the label, meter reading, schedule, and tariff that apply to you.
Heating cost = heater kW × active hours × tariff2000 W · 5 hours/day · 7 days/week · 80% active
- Monthly energy
- 242.7 kWh
- Monthly cost
- US$43.68
- Annual cost
- US$524.16
Transparent method
The calculation
Heating cost = heater kW × active hours × tariffMost resistive heaters convert purchased electricity into heat at the point of use. Cost depends mainly on power, runtime, thermostat cycling, and tariff.
Read the full methodology →Sensitivity check
Run three scenarios.
Short boostModel one or two active hours per day.
Thermostat-controlledUse a 50%–80% active-runtime range.
Continuous demandUse 100% only if the element truly stays on.
Use the result well
What can change the answer?
- Equal-wattage resistive heaters cost roughly the same while active.
- Comfort and runtime still differ with insulation and heat delivery.
- Heat pumps require a different efficiency model.
Calculation standards
Visible inputs. Reproducible results.
WhoPowerCost Lab's research desk maintains the formulas, market notes, and worked examples.
HowEnergy, tariff, and behavioural assumptions stay separate so readers can replace one input without hiding the others.
WhyThe page exists to answer an operating-cost decision. Advertising never changes a formula, default, or recommendation.