How Much Electricity Does a Heated Blanket Use

Heated blankets are a popular way to stay warm during the colder months in the UK. They provide targeted heat directly to the user, offering comfort without needing to heat an entire room. Many homeowners wonder how much electricity these blankets use and whether running them nightly significantly increases their energy bills. Understanding electricity consumption, the factors affecting it, and how to use heated blankets efficiently can help homeowners enjoy comfort without unnecessary cost.

Average Power Consumption of Heated Blankets

Most domestic heated blankets use between 50 and 150 watts of power, depending on the size and heat settings. Single bed blankets typically consume around 60 to 100 watts, while larger double or king-size models can use 120 to 150 watts. Running a heated blanket for one hour at 100 watts consumes 0.1 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity. At the current UK electricity rate of around 30 pence per kWh, this amounts to about 3 pence per hour. Even running the blanket for eight hours overnight would cost under 25 pence, making them an extremely energy-efficient way to stay warm compared to electric heaters or central heating.

Comparing Heated Blankets to Other Heating Options

Heated blankets use far less electricity than alternative heating methods. A small fan heater can use up to 2 kilowatts per hour, costing around 60 pence for a single hour, and central heating systems consume even more. Heated blankets provide direct warmth to the user rather than heating the entire room, which makes them highly efficient for personal comfort. Many households find that using a heated blanket at night allows them to lower central heating temperatures, reducing overall energy consumption.

How Usage Patterns Affect Electricity Consumption

The way you use a heated blanket can influence electricity use. Many modern blankets offer preheat modes, which draw maximum power for a short period to quickly warm the bed before switching to a lower maintenance setting. Leaving the blanket on throughout the night on a low setting consumes only a fraction of the electricity compared to running a room heater for the same period. Using timers or automatic shut-off functions ensures the blanket is not drawing power unnecessarily when not in use.

Estimating Daily and Monthly Costs

To put electricity costs into perspective, a heated blanket rated at 100 watts used for eight hours per night consumes 0.8 kWh. At 30 pence per kWh, this costs approximately 24 pence per night. Over a month of nightly use, this adds up to around £7.20. Larger or higher-wattage blankets may cost slightly more, perhaps up to £10 per month if used nightly. Compared to central heating or running electric heaters, this is minimal, making heated blankets a cost-effective heating option for bedrooms.

Temperature Settings and Efficiency

Most heated blankets come with multiple heat settings, which directly influence electricity use. Higher settings draw more power and increase consumption, while lower settings use less. Many users find that preheating the bed for 15 to 30 minutes and then switching to a lower setting provides sufficient warmth while minimising electricity use. Choosing the lowest effective setting helps maintain comfort without unnecessary energy consumption.

Safety Features and Modern Design

Modern heated blankets are designed with safety in mind. Features such as overheat protection, automatic shut-off after a set period, and adjustable temperature controls reduce the risk of accidents and prevent excess electricity consumption. Older blankets or those without safety features may use more electricity or pose a higher risk of overheating. It is advisable to replace blankets every ten years or sooner if wear is visible to ensure safety and efficiency.

Materials and Insulation Effects

The materials used in heated blankets can affect both comfort and efficiency. High-quality fabrics with good thermal insulation retain heat longer, allowing the blanket to operate on lower settings for extended periods. Thicker blankets with embedded wiring that is well-insulated distribute heat evenly and reduce the need for high power draw. Conversely, thinner blankets with poor insulation may require higher heat settings to maintain comfort, increasing electricity consumption.

Practical Tips for Reducing Electricity Use

Several practical steps help reduce electricity use with heated blankets. Using the preheat function for a short period rather than leaving the blanket on high all night saves power. Employing timers or programmable controls ensures the blanket turns off automatically after a few hours. Adjusting room heating to a lower temperature while using the blanket reduces total energy consumption. Ensuring the blanket is flat and not folded while in use improves airflow and efficiency, preventing hotspots and unnecessary power use.

Energy Consumption in Context

Although heated blankets use electricity continuously while switched on, their total consumption is very low compared to other household appliances. A small heated blanket uses roughly the same amount of electricity as a desktop computer or a television running for several hours. Even for large blankets used nightly, the cost remains modest, typically under £10 per month. For households looking to reduce energy bills while maintaining comfort, heated blankets provide an excellent balance of warmth and efficiency.

Comparisons with Electric Bed Pads and Throws

Other electric bedding options, such as heated mattress pads or throws, generally use similar amounts of electricity, often slightly less due to their smaller surface area. The principles of efficient use are the same: use preheat for a short period, switch to a lower maintenance setting overnight, and take advantage of automatic shut-off features. Heated throws can provide extra warmth in the living room or bedroom without increasing the energy footprint significantly.

Environmental Considerations

Using a heated blanket is an environmentally friendly way to stay warm because it uses a fraction of the electricity needed to heat a whole room. Lowering central heating at night while using a blanket reduces gas or electricity consumption from the main heating system. By providing direct, localised heat, heated blankets can contribute to lower overall household energy use and carbon emissions.

Maintenance and Safety Checks

Regular inspection of the blanket ensures both safety and efficiency. Check the wiring, plug, and control unit for signs of wear or damage. Ensure the blanket is used according to manufacturer instructions, avoiding folding or placing heavy objects on top. Most modern blankets are washable, but the control unit must be removed first. Using damaged or outdated blankets increases risk and may result in inefficient operation, slightly raising electricity use.

Electrical Requirements

Heated blankets typically use standard UK sockets and draw low current, so they rarely require a dedicated circuit. However, it is important to ensure the socket is in good condition and protected by an RCD. Avoid using extension leads, particularly for high-wattage or older blankets, as this can increase risk of overheating. For any concerns regarding multiple electrical appliances in the bedroom, a qualified electrician can assess your circuits and advise on safe and efficient setup.

Conclusion: Warmth at Minimal Cost

Heated blankets are one of the most energy-efficient ways to stay warm in the home. They use between 50 and 150 watts per hour, costing only a few pence per night for standard use. With proper usage, timers, and temperature control, running costs remain low while providing comfort throughout winter. Modern safety features, high-quality materials, and smart preheating ensure the blanket operates efficiently. For homeowners, ensuring that electrical outlets are suitable and safe adds peace of mind while using these appliances. Heated blankets offer a cost-effective, safe, and environmentally friendly alternative to running central heating all night, allowing households to enjoy warmth with minimal electricity consumption.