HEATING COST CALCULATOR
Space Heater Cost Calculator
Estimate the cost of a 750W, 1,000W, 1,500W, or custom electric space heater.
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Updates instantlySee how much a portable heater costs to run
watts
hours
units
$/kWh
Formula: Hourly cost = (heater watts ÷ 1,000) × number of heaters × electricity rate
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How this estimate works
At the same wattage and runtime, ceramic, oil-filled, and infrared electric resistance heaters have similar operating costs.
- Use your equipment data. Check a label, specification sheet, controller, or energy meter.
- Enter your utility rate. A recent bill is more useful than a national average.
- Test different schedules. Change one input at a time to compare scenarios.
Ways to reduce or refine the cost
1
Heat only occupied rooms and close doors.
2
Use the thermostat and timer instead of continuous operation.
3
Keep heaters away from combustible materials.
Transparent methodology
Results use the values you enter and standard energy formulas. They are planning estimates, not bills or guarantees.
Frequently asked questions
Do all 1,500W heaters cost the same to run?+
At the same runtime and electricity rate, they use the same amount of electricity.
Is low mode cheaper?+
Yes while drawing less power, though total savings depend on runtime.
Can I leave a space heater on overnight?+
Follow manufacturer safety instructions and never use damaged cords or unsafe placement.
How to verify this estimate
Best input
Use the heater input wattage and actual active heating time.
Reality check
Test more than one thermostat setting while maintaining safe indoor conditions.
Important limitation
A thermostat-controlled heater does not necessarily draw rated power every minute it is switched on.
Primary reference: U.S. Department of Energy. Reviewed September 2026.