How Much Does an Electric Blanket Cost to Run? A Complete Guide
How Much Does an Electric Blanket Cost to Run?
Electric blankets are a cost-effective way to keep warm without having to heat an entire room. In the UK, an electric blanket typically costs between 2p to 6p per hour to run, depending on the wattage, settings, and energy tariff.
How Much Does an Electric Blanket Cost Per Hour in the UK?
The cost to run an electric blanket varies depending on the wattage of the blanket and your electricity rate. Here’s a general breakdown:
| Wattage | Cost Per Hour (Based on 30p/kWh) | Cost for 8 Hours |
|---|---|---|
| 50W | 1.5p | 12p |
| 100W | 3p | 24p |
| 150W | 4.5p | 36p |
| 200W | 6p | 48p |
Most electric blankets in the UK use between 50-150 watts, meaning they are significantly cheaper than central heating or electric heaters.
Do Electric Blankets Use a Lot of Electricity?
No, electric blankets do not use a lot of electricity compared to other heating methods. For reference:
- Electric blankets: Around 3p per hour
- Oil-filled radiator: Around 25p per hour
- Fan heater: Around 40p per hour
- Central heating: £1+ per hour (depending on energy efficiency and home size)
This means that using an electric blanket instead of central heating could save you hundreds of pounds per year in energy costs.
How Much Does It Cost to Run an Electric Blanket for 8 Hours?
The average Silentnight electric blanket or Dreamland heated throw costs around 12p – 36p for 8 hours of use. This makes it an affordable overnight heating solution.
If you use an electric blanket every night for a month, here’s the estimated cost:
| Wattage | Monthly Cost (8 Hours Per Night) |
|---|---|
| 50W | £3.60 |
| 100W | £7.20 |
| 150W | £10.80 |
| 200W | £14.40 |
Compared to running an oil-filled radiator (£60+ per month) or central heating (£100+ per month), an electric blanket is one of the cheapest heating options available.
Are Electric Blankets Expensive to Run in the UK?
No, electric blankets are one of the cheapest ways to stay warm. A 50W electric blanket on low settings can cost as little as £1 per month if used for short periods.
To maximise savings:
✔ Use a timer to turn it off after warming your bed.
✔ Layer up with blankets to retain heat longer.
✔ Choose an energy-efficient brand like Silentnight or Dreamland.
Electric Blanket vs Heater Cost: Which is Cheaper?
If you're wondering whether an electric blanket or heater is more cost-effective, here's a comparison:
| Heating Option | Cost Per Hour | Cost for 8 Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Electric Blanket (100W) | 3p | 24p |
| Fan Heater (2000W) | 60p | £4.80 |
| Oil-Filled Radiator (1500W) | 45p | £3.60 |
| Central Heating | £1+ | £8+ |
Clearly, electric blankets are the cheapest option for targeted warmth.
Cheapest Electric Blankets to Run in the UK
If you’re looking for an energy-efficient electric blanket, here are some top picks:
🔥 Best Low-Energy Electric Blankets
✔ Silentnight Comfort Control Electric Blanket – Uses 60W (Approx. 2p per hour)
✔ Dreamland Intelliheat Heated Throw – Uses 100W (Approx. 3p per hour)
✔ Lakeland Fleece Heated Blanket – Uses 70W (Approx. 2.5p per hour)
These models are cost-effective and provide custom heat settings to reduce electricity consumption.
Final Verdict: Are Electric Blankets Worth It?
Yes! Electric blankets are:
✅ Cheap to run – Less than 5p per hour
✅ Energy-efficient – Uses far less electricity than heaters
✅ Safe – Modern blankets have automatic shut-off features
✅ Cost-saving – Can reduce heating bills significantly
For budget-conscious households, an electric blanket is one of the best investments for warmth without high energy costs.