APPLIANCE COST GUIDE
How much does a space heater cost to run?
Space heaters draw a lot of power in a small package. Thermostat cycling, insulation and the heat setting determine how often the element runs.
Editable estimate
Calculate running cost
Results update as you type.
Estimated monthly cost—30-day month
Daily—
Annual—
Daily energy—
Annual energy—
kW × effective runtime × rate. Effective runtime = hours/day × duty cycle.
Ways to lower this cost
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RATE COMPARISON
How your rate changes the cost
Same appliance inputs, using May 2026 EIA residential averages.
Data updatedEIA residential prices · May 2026View Table 5.6.A
Make the estimate more accurate
- Use the wattage printed on the heater label; many full-power models are 1,500 W.
- A plug-in energy meter captures thermostat cycling better than a guessed duty cycle.
- Compare room heating with whole-home heating before relying on a portable heater.
Presets are estimates. Use your model label, an EnergyGuide figure or a safe meter reading when available.