costtorun

How Much Does a Fan Heater Cost to Run?

Updated March 2026. Default rate effective 1 April 2026 (Ofgem Q2 2026). Figures are typical estimates rather than model-specific guarantees.

A fan heater is usually one of the fastest but costliest ways to heat a room with electricity. It delivers strong heat quickly, but it normally runs at full power while it is on.

Calculator24.5p/kWh
W
hrs
p/kWh
Per hour
49.0p
Per day
£1.96
Per week
£13.72
Per month
£59.66
Annual cost
£715.40

Typical annual electricity use: 2920.00 kWh

Based on typical fan heater usage at current rates.

Annual estimate

£715.40

Annual electricity use

2920.00 kWh

Typical household bill context

About 108% of a typical home's annual variable electricity spend at the current default rate.

What Affects the Cost of Running a Fan Heater?

Running cost is driven mainly by wattage and hours of use. A fan heater usually has little or no meaningful cycling once it is switched on, so every extra hour matters.

Helpful guides

Compare running costs

Related appliances

Assumptions and methodology

  • Electricity rate: 24.5p/kWh (Ofgem Q2 2026)
  • Default wattage is based on a typical appliance in this category
  • Usage assumptions are meant to be a sensible starting point, not a fixed rule
  • Costs vary with tariff, model, settings, load size, and household habits
Read the full methodology

Tips to Reduce Fan Heater Running Costs

Use a timer and only heat the room you are actually in. Fan heaters are best for short bursts rather than long background heating.