Heater cost calculator: See What you're really paying

How much does it really cost to use a cheap electric heater?

As the winter chill creeps in, many households turn to the humble plug-in electric fan heater. They’re compact, affordable, and promise instant warmth. You can pick one up for under $50, but is that “cheap” heat really as budget-friendly as it seems?

The hidden cost of “cheap” heating

While plug-in heaters are affordable upfront, they’re some of the least efficient heating options when it comes to electricity consumption.

Most fan heaters are rated between 1800W and 2400W, which means they use 1.8 to 2.4 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity for every hour they’re on. If your energy plan charges 30 to 35 cents per kWh, running one for just 4 hours a day could cost over $100 a month.

But here’s the thing, the cost can vary wildly depending on your energy rates and the specific heater you’re using.

Try our free electric heater running cost calculator

Want to know exactly how much your heater is costing you? We’ve built a free interactive tool that lets you paste the product URL of your heater (from sites like Kmart, Big W, Bunnings, or The Good Guys), and we’ll instantly estimate how much it costs to run.

It scans the heater’s wattage and gives you clear monthly and seasonal cost estimates based on average energy rates, helping you make smarter, warmer decisions.

Use the calculator now:

What are some more efficient ways to heat your home?

If you're looking to save on heating bills, consider alternatives that offer more bang for your buck:

• Reverse cycle air conditioners: Can be up to 3x more efficient than fan heaters

• Gas heating: May offer lower running costs depending on energy prices in your area

• Insulation and layering: Not glamorous, but highly effective

For those in small spaces or rentals, fan heaters might still be the go-to, just make sure you understand what you’re really paying to stay warm.

Want to save even more?

No matter what heater you use, the best way to lower your energy bill is by switching to a cheaper electricity or gas plan.

• Compare energy plans now

• See how much you could save in minutes

• No hidden fees. Just better deals.

Final thoughts

That $39 fan heater may seem like a winter steal, but once it’s running daily, the costs can add up fast. Before you plug in and crank it up, use our calculator to check the real running cost.

While you’re at it, check out our free comparison tool at EnergyPlans.com.au to find the cheapest electricity or gas plans, because the best way to stay warm is with a smarter bill.