UK running cost calculator
Electric Heater Cost Calculator UK
Estimate electric heater running costs with an editable UK electricity rate.
Last reviewed: 17 July 2026
Quick answer
Using a 2 kW electric heater for 4 hours a day at the current 26.11p/kWh Great Britain average Direct Debit rate costs an estimated £2.09 per day.
At 7 days a week, that is about £14.62 per week or £760.32 per year.
This Ofgem rate applies from 1 July to 30 September 2026; your unit rate is editable below.
Calculator
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How this is calculated
See the exact steps behind the estimate so the result stays easy to sense-check.
- kWh per day = kW x hours per day
- daily cost = kWh per day x price per kWh
- weekly cost = daily cost x days per week
- monthly cost = weekly cost x 4.345
- yearly cost = weekly cost x 52
Standing charge is excluded because this estimates appliance usage only.
Example calculation
A worked example helps the user compare the result with a familiar everyday scenario.
A 2 kW heater used for 4 hours a day uses 8 kWh each day.
At 26.11p/kWh, that is estimated at £2.09 per day, £14.62 per week, £63.53 per month and £760.32 per year when used every day.
Tips to reduce cost
Small household changes can often reduce running costs without overcomplicating the decision.
- Use a timer so the heater runs only when you need it most.
- Check the room size before relying on a small heater for long periods.
- Close doors and reduce drafts to keep heat in for longer.
- Compare heater cost with better-insulated options or a different heating setup.
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Electric heater cost FAQs
Straight answers to common electric-heater running-cost questions.
- How much does a 2 kW electric heater cost per hour and per day?
- At 26.11p/kWh, a 2 kW heater costs an estimated £0.52 per hour and £2.09 for four hours of use in a day. Your own tariff may be different, so enter the unit rate from your bill for a closer estimate.
- Does this electric heater cost estimate include standing charge?
- No. Standing charge is excluded because using one appliance does not add an extra standing charge; it is a daily supply cost on your electricity bill.
- Can I use my own tariff instead of the default rate?
- Yes. The 26.11p/kWh Great Britain average Direct Debit rate is editable, so you can use the electricity unit rate from your own bill.
- Why might my electric heater cost less than this estimate?
- A thermostat may cycle the heater on and off once the room is warm, so it may not draw its full rated power for every hour. Room temperature, insulation and your chosen heat setting can also change actual usage.
Sources and review
Source: Ofgem energy price cap unit rates and standing charges (1 July 2026 to 30 September 2026). Accessed 17 July 2026. Great Britain average Direct Debit fallback: 26.11p/kWh. Appliance estimates exclude the standing charge.
Assumptions: This example uses a 2 kW heater for 4 hours a day, 7 days a week. The default 26.11p/kWh rate is Ofgem's Great Britain average Direct Debit electricity unit rate for 1 July to 30 September 2026.
Not included: Standing charge, because appliance use does not add an extra standing charge.
Reviewed by Hasan Kafadar. If you spot an issue, tell us how to correct it.
Estimate notice
This is an estimate. Your actual cost may vary depending on your tariff, region and appliance usage.
Check the formula section and use your own bill where possible. For site details and policies, see:
Looking for a more energy-efficient heater?
Switching to a modern oil-filled or ceramic model could cost less to run.
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