How Much Electricity Does a Heated Blanket Use

Heated blankets are often seen as a cosy luxury during the colder months, but with energy costs being a concern for many households across the UK, it is natural to ask how much electricity a heated blanket actually uses. Unlike central heating systems, which warm an entire home, a heated blanket is designed to provide direct warmth to the body, meaning its energy use is relatively low. To understand how efficient they are, it is important to look at how they work, their typical power ratings, and how usage patterns affect overall running costs.

How Heated Blankets Work

A heated blanket uses a network of thin insulated wires that are woven into the fabric. When switched on, an electrical current passes through these wires, gently heating the blanket. The blanket is usually connected to the mains with a control switch that allows the user to set different heat levels. Most modern designs have built-in safety features such as automatic shut-off timers, overheat protection, and adjustable thermostats, which not only improve safety but also help reduce unnecessary electricity consumption.

Average Power Rating of a Heated Blanket

The electricity use of a heated blanket depends on its wattage. Single heated throws or underblankets are often rated between 50 and 100 watts, while larger double or king-size blankets may use between 150 and 200 watts on their highest setting. To put this in perspective, a standard kettle typically uses around 3,000 watts. This means that even at full power, a heated blanket uses a fraction of the electricity that many household appliances consume.

Daily Electricity Use in Practice

The actual amount of electricity a heated blanket uses depends on how long it is switched on and at what setting. For example, if a heated blanket rated at 100 watts is used for three hours in the evening, it will consume 0.3 kilowatt hours of electricity. At the current average UK electricity price of around 28 pence per kilowatt hour, this works out to about 8 pence for an evening’s use. Over a week of regular use, the cost would remain less than the price of running a tumble dryer for a single cycle.

Annual Energy Costs

If a household used a heated blanket for three hours every evening throughout the winter months, say 120 days in total, the blanket would consume around 36 kilowatt hours of electricity. At 28 pence per unit, this comes to just over £10 for the season. Even for larger or higher wattage blankets, the annual cost is unlikely to exceed £20, making heated blankets one of the most energy-efficient ways to stay warm at home. This is a particularly attractive option for people who want to reduce their reliance on central heating or who spend long periods sitting in one place, such as working from home.

Comparing Heated Blankets with Central Heating

A central heating system powered by gas or electricity is designed to heat the entire property. While this is essential for maintaining comfort across multiple rooms, it can be costly if only one person is at home or if only one room is in use. Heated blankets provide direct warmth without the need to heat unused spaces. This makes them a sensible choice for those looking to cut down on heating bills. They also work well as a supplement, allowing the thermostat on the main heating system to be set a few degrees lower without sacrificing comfort.

Factors That Influence Electricity Use

Although heated blankets are very efficient, electricity use can vary depending on the model, size, and heat setting chosen. Using the highest setting constantly will naturally consume more power, while most people find that a medium setting is more than enough for comfortable warmth. Built-in timers and automatic shut-off functions are useful features, as they prevent the blanket from being left on unnecessarily. Insulating the bed with duvets or additional throws also helps retain the heat, meaning the blanket does not need to work as hard.

Safety Considerations and Best Practice

When using heated blankets, safety is as important as efficiency. It is recommended to check that the blanket carries a recognised UK safety mark and is regularly inspected for wear and tear. Old or damaged blankets should be replaced, as exposed wiring or faulty controls can pose a fire risk. Most modern blankets are very safe and come with features that stop them from overheating. Following the manufacturer’s instructions, such as not folding the blanket when switched on and avoiding use with hot water bottles, helps maintain both safety and efficiency.

Environment and Energy Efficiency Benefits

From an environmental perspective, heated blankets can play a role in reducing household energy demand. By lowering reliance on whole-house heating and instead focusing on personal comfort, less gas or electricity is required overall. This not only reduces energy bills but also lowers carbon emissions. In homes that are poorly insulated or difficult to heat, a heated blanket can be an especially useful tool for keeping warm without excessive energy use.

Conclusion

A heated blanket is one of the most efficient appliances in the home when it comes to electricity use. With most models consuming between 50 and 200 watts, the running costs are minimal, often no more than a few pence per evening. Over the course of a winter, even regular use is unlikely to cost more than £10 to £20, making it an affordable and practical way to stay warm. When used alongside sensible heating strategies and good insulation, heated blankets can help households cut costs while remaining comfortable, all with very little impact on energy bills.