Ceramic space heater vs. oil-filled radiator: running cost
A ceramic space heater is cheaper to run: about $148 a year versus $165 for an oil-filled radiator at typical use and 17.99¢/kWh, a $16 difference.
| Ceramic space heater | Oil-filled radiator | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical watts | 1,500 W | 1,500 W |
| Watt range | 900–1,500 W | 600–1,500 W |
| Typical use | 6 hours a day for 5 months a year | 8 hours a day for 5 months a year |
| Energy per year | 825 kWh | 916 kWh |
| Cost per hour | 16¢ | 13¢ |
| Cost per day | 97¢ | $1.08 |
| Cost per month | $29.67 | $32.94 |
| Cost per year | $148 | $165 |
| Per year in Hawaii (43.51¢) | $359 | $398 |
Compare at your rate and settings
What drives the difference
- Ceramic space heater: Ceramic heaters blow air over a PTC ceramic element and typically run 900 W on low and 1,500 W on high. They heat a small room quickly but stop warming it almost as soon as they cycle off.
- Oil-filled radiator: Oil-filled radiators are electric resistance heaters with a sealed oil reservoir; they use the same 1,500 W on high as any space heater but cycle less often because the oil keeps radiating heat.
Ways to cut either cost
Keeps radiating after the element cycles off, giving steadier comfort on a lower setting.
See options on AmazonWarms your legs at 150-200 W when you only need personal heat at a desk.
See options on AmazonKeeps you warm overnight at about 60-80 W average instead of heating a bedroom at 600-1,500 W.
See options on AmazonWe may earn a commission from qualifying purchases. It never changes the numbers we show. Disclosure.
Frequently asked questions
Which costs more to run, a ceramic space heater or an oil-filled radiator?
At typical use and the U.S. average rate (17.99¢/kWh), an oil-filled radiator costs about $165 a year versus $148 for a ceramic space heater. That's $16 more.
How many watts do ceramic space heater and oil-filled radiator use?
A ceramic space heater typically draws 1,500 W (range 900–1,500 W). An oil-filled radiator draws 1,500 W (range 600–1,500 W). Watts alone don't decide cost. Hours of use, cycling and standby matter just as much.
Rates: EIA, 12 months ending 2026-07. Methodology.