How Much Does It Cost to Run a Space Heater?

To determine the cost of running a space heater, you must follow several steps. Figure the cost of your local electricity, then the wattage of the space heater. Then determine the cost per hour, day and year. Depending on your heater's setting options, the cost might be variable.

Cost of Electricity

Look at your most recent electric bill. Take the total amount and divide by the total kilowatt-hour. According to official energy statistics in May 2009, electric rates ranged from 8 cents to 22 cents per kWh.

Wattage

Wattage is how much electricity is used by an appliance. Look on the back of your space heater for the wattage. Most heaters are 1,500 watts.

Watts to kWh

Cost for electricity is charged by the kWh. Get this rate by multiplying .001 by the appliance wattage.

Cost per hour

Cost per hour of your space heater on full power and based on 1,500 is calculated by multiplying 1,500 by .001. Then multiply by the rate per hour.

Size of space heater

The cost on half power settings is figured by dividing these figures in half.

References

• Cost of Electricity for USA State
• Definition of Wattage