Are Fan Heaters Cheap To Run? What You'll Really Pay In The UK
Fan heaters are popular because they heat up fast and cost little to buy. But with energy bills on everyone's mind, the real question is what they cost to run.
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How Much Does A Fan Heater Cost Per Hour?
A typical fan heater runs at up to 2kW, which means it uses 2 kWh of electricity per hour on its highest setting. With electricity averaging 26-32p per kWh on the October to December 2026 price cap, that works out at roughly 53p per hour. On a 1kW setting it's about 26p per hour.
| Heater setting | Cost per hour | Cost for 3 hours |
|---|---|---|
| 1kW | around 26p | around 79p |
| 2kW | around 53p | around £1.58 |
Are Fan Heaters Expensive Compared With Other Electric Heaters?
Not really. Almost all of the electricity an electric heater uses ends up as heat, so a 2kW fan heater costs about the same per hour as a 2Kw convector or oil-filled radiator.
The difference is how you use it. A fan heater is built for quick, short bursts and for heating the space around you, so it suits small rooms, home offices, bathrooms and chilly corners.
How To Cut The Running Cost Of A Fan Heater
- Use it for short periods rather than as all-day heating.
- Choose the lowest setting that keeps you comfortable.
- Pick a model with an adjustable thermostat so it stops once the room is warm.
- Close doors and block draughts so the heat stays where you need it.
- Use a timer function if your heater has one.
When Is A Fan Heater The Right Choice?
It's a good fit for a small room you only use for an hour or two. For long, steady heating, a convector or oil-filled radiator is usually the more comfortable option.
Ready to pick one? Browse our fan heaters and check the wattage and thermostat features before you buy.
