Oil-filled radiator heaters are typically low-maintenance and energy-efficient.
There are a variety of different factors that affect the cost.
Check out this guide to figure out the oil-filled radiator heater cost to run and how much electricity your radiator might use.
Factors Affecting Electricity Usage Of Oil Filled Heaters
Oil heaters use oil that is encased in a radiator to heat a room. The cost and usage of oil-filled radiator heaters may vary, especially depending on the size of the radiator and the size of the room.
Many other factors, such as those in this list, should be considered when determining the cost of running an oil-filled radiator. See our favorite oil-filled heating models here.
Outside Temperature
The outside temperature affects the cost of oil-filled radiator heaters because the colder it is outside, the more heat you will require inside. The more heat you need, the higher the cost.
Home & Room Insulation
If your home is adequately insulated with high-quality insulation, heat will be less likely to escape and won’t require additional heat from your oil-filled radiator. If your home and room have poor insulation, you may need more heat, which takes more oil, resulting in higher costs. Reflective insulation can be placed behind radiators to absorb and direct heat.
Number Of Outside Access Doors
Every time a door opens, heat escapes. Your room requires more heat to keep it warm if the existing heat constantly escapes, which takes more electricity. There are over-door radiator heater options for spaces that have high traffic volume, most commonly used in commercial spaces.
Check other radiation type heating solutions:
Most Efficient Heating System
Best Electric Wall Heaters
Most Energy Efficient Space Heaters
Best Space Heater for Apartment
Best Space Heater for Large Rooms
Number Of Windows
Heat escapes through openings, including windows. If windows are not securely sealed, heat can constantly escape. When heat escapes, you need to use more electricity from your oil-filled heater, which raises the cost.

Electricity Consumption Of An Oil Filled Radiator Heater
Electricity usage for oil-filled radiator heaters is measured by watts (W). See the table below for estimated electricity consumption of oil-filled radiator heaters and the running cost. The table gives you an idea of how much the price is per hour, per day, and per month.
Required Wattage | Running Hours Per Day | Cost Per kWh |
Cost Per Day | Cost For 30 Days |
---|---|---|---|---|
500 Watts | 24 | $0.12 | $1.44 | $43.80 |
700 Watts | 24 | $0.12 | $2.01 | $61.33 |
900 Watts | 24 | $0.12 | $2.59 | $78.85 |
1100 Watts | 24 | $0.12 | $3.16 | $96.37 |
1300 watts | 24 | $0.12 | $3.74 | $113.89 |
1500 Watts | 24 | $0.12 | $4.32 | $131.41 |
Calculating The Cost To Run An Oil-Filled Radiator
Oil-filled radiator heaters use electricity as an energy source. The kilowatt cost depends on the region in which you live. The table above uses an average price of $0.12/Kwh. To calculate the cost of electricity usage of an oil-filled heater, multiply the watt rating of your oil-filled heater with the time spent and kilowatt. The table below calculates the rate over 24 hours.

Using Oil-Filled Radiator Heaters Efficiently (Saving Money Tips)
Oil-filled radiator heaters are 99% energy efficient because they convert electricity directly into heat. Homeowners can save money by following a few simple steps.
- Be sure to tightly seal all windows to limit the amount of heat escaping.
- Keep doors closed when possible.
- Watch for hidden electricity costs.
- Heat larger spaces with space heaters.
- Use high-quality insulation in rooms and houses to keep heat in.
People Also Ask (FAQ)
How long do oil-filled radiators take to heat up?
Oil-filled radiators tend to take a bit more time to heat up compared to other types of oil-free heaters. The bonus is that they cool down more slowly, retaining heat for longer periods.
What is the infrared heater vs. oil-filled radiator cost to run?
The initial cost of an infrared heater is less than an oil-filled heater, but in the long run, it costs less to heat large spaces for more extended periods.
Are oil-filled heaters better than electric heaters?
Electric heaters are lighter and less heavy but do not provide as much heat to large spaces as oil-filled heaters do. Oil-filled radiator heaters are more energy-efficient and cost less in the long run, so they are better than electric heaters.
Conclusion
The electric oil-filled radiator heater cost to run is affordable and energy-efficient for both large and small spaces. These heaters are energy efficient, but heat is lost in rooms with excessive doors and windows, increasing electricity costs.
Last Updated on November 26, 2021
- Do Air Purifiers Help With Dog, Cat & Pet Smells? - January 9, 2023
- Does An Air Purifier Help Remove Radon Gas? - January 9, 2023
- How To Clean Dyson Air Purifier Fan Filter (DIY Guide) - January 9, 2023