Space heaters are a popular way to warm individual rooms during winter. They’re convenient, affordable to purchase, and easy to use — but how much do they actually cost to run?
If you’re trying to lower your winter heating bill, understanding the cost of running a space heater is essential.
Quick Answer: How Much Does It Cost?
Most electric space heaters use 1,500 watts (1.5 kW).
If you run a 1,500-watt heater for:
8 hours per day
At $0.16 per kWh
Calculation:
1.5 kW × 8 hours × 30 days = 360 kWh
360 × $0.16 = $57.60 per month
Average monthly cost range:
$30 to $90 per month, depending on usage and electricity rate.
Cost Per Hour
A typical 1,500-watt heater costs:
1.5 kW × $0.16 = $0.24 per hour
If your electricity rate is $0.20 per kWh, the hourly cost increases to $0.30.
What Impacts Space Heater Costs?
- Electricity rate in your state
- Daily runtime
- Heater wattage
- Insulation quality
- Room size
Poor insulation increases runtime and overall cost.
Is a Space Heater Cheaper Than Central Heating?
It depends.
If you’re heating only one room, a space heater can be cheaper than running central heating for the entire house.
However, if used extensively in multiple rooms, costs can exceed gas heating.
For a full comparison, see our guide on winter heating costs.
(👉 Cost to Heat a House in Winter (Gas vs Electric Comparison))
When Space Heaters Become Expensive
Running a heater:
12 hours per day
At $0.18 per kWh
Can exceed $95 per month.
Multiple heaters multiply the cost.
How to Reduce Space Heater Costs
- Use it only in occupied rooms
- Improve insulation
- Close doors to trap heat
- Lower central heating slightly
- Choose energy-efficient models
Used strategically, space heaters can reduce overall heating bills.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it cheaper to use a space heater or central heat?
For heating a single room, space heaters are often cheaper.
Do space heaters use a lot of electricity?
Yes. Most use 1,500 watts, which is relatively high compared to many appliances.
How much does it cost to run a heater all night?
Running 8 hours overnight typically costs $2–$3 per night depending on electricity rates.
Are oil-filled heaters cheaper to run?
They use similar wattage but may cycle on and off more efficiently.
Final Thoughts
The cost to run a space heater typically ranges between $30 and $90 per month, depending on runtime and electricity rates.
Used wisely, space heaters can help reduce overall heating costs — but overuse can significantly increase your electricity bill.
