Space heater vs. ceramic space heater: running cost
A space heater is cheaper to run: about $148 a year versus $148 for a ceramic space heater at typical use and 17.99¢/kWh, a $0 difference.
| Space heater | Ceramic space heater | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical watts | 1,500 W | 1,500 W |
| Watt range | 750–1,500 W | 900–1,500 W |
| Typical use | 6 hours a day for 5 months a year | 6 hours a day for 5 months a year |
| Energy per year | 825 kWh | 825 kWh |
| Cost per hour | 16¢ | 16¢ |
| Cost per day | 97¢ | 97¢ |
| Cost per month | $29.67 | $29.67 |
| Cost per year | $148 | $148 |
| Per year in Hawaii (43.51¢) | $359 | $359 |
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What drives the difference
- Space heater: Nearly all plug-in space heaters draw 1,500 W on high, the most a standard 15-amp outlet can safely supply. Every model converts electricity to heat at the same 100% rate, so the thermostat setting and hours matter more than the brand.
- 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.
Ways to cut either cost
Stores heat in oil so it holds room temperature on its lower 600-900 W settings and cycles less.
See options on AmazonWarms your body directly at about 100 W instead of heating the whole room at 1,500 W.
See options on AmazonKeeps radiating after the element cycles off, giving steadier comfort on a lower setting.
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Frequently asked questions
Which costs more to run, a space heater or a ceramic space heater?
At typical use and the U.S. average rate (17.99¢/kWh), a ceramic space heater costs about $148 a year versus $148 for a space heater. That's $0 more.
How many watts do space heater and ceramic space heater use?
A space heater typically draws 1,500 W (range 750–1,500 W). A ceramic space heater draws 1,500 W (range 900–1,500 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.