Updated at: 01-12-2022 - By: Sienna Lewis

On a chilly winter night, there’s nothing cozier than a cozy bed. With an electric blanket, you can stay warm and save money on your utility bill without having to turn up the heat.

How much electricity does an electric blanket use?

Most electric blankets, which distribute heat via internal wires, are energy efficient. In comparison to some space heaters, which can cost as much as 15 cents an hour, they typically cost approximately four cents an hour.

Calculations from Choice show that a single-bed electric blanket should cost roughly $20 per season, including pre-heating costs.

How much does it cost to run an electric blanket? | The Sun

How long do you need to run them for?

A typical electric blanket only has to be used for 10 to 30 minutes at a moderate temperature setting because they are such efficient heaters. Because your doona traps warm air, you won’t need a space heater at all during the night. It is possible to arrange an electric blanket to turn itself off at a predetermined period. Even if your electric blanket has an all-night setting, we don’t advocate leaving it on all night.

What types of blankets are there?

Electric under-blankets are the most frequent, and they are placed under your fitted sheet. If you want a warmer night’s sleep, an over-blanket can be placed on top of your doona to keep it at a steady temperature. A heater in your living room may be unnecessary if you have one of these heated throws on your couch.

What should I look for when buying one?

For safety reasons, make sure the blanket has an overheat sensor that can be activated to turn the blanket off in the event that it gets too hot. Fleecy blankets should be more comfortable than thinner blankets, and fitted blankets are easier to use. One with a high energy efficiency rating is best.

Are electric blankets safe?

The answer is yes, as long as you’re careful and keep them rolled up while not in use. Any of the following issues should prompt you to replace your blanket: bent wires; burn marks; frayed fabric; exposed elements; wetness; worn patches; damaged cords or loose connections.

Even if a blanket is still in good shape, it is recommended that it be replaced every ten years. Because of the level of supervision required, it’s best if young children don’t utilize them. Avoid putting them in a crib or playpen.

If you’re buying for an electric blanket in Australia, be sure to search for AS/NZS 60335.2.17:2012 on the label. The manufacturer’s directions should be followed for using and caring for your electric blanket.

Rug up and save

During the winter months, keeping energy and heating expenditures in check is always a concern. You’ll save money and have a better night’s sleep if you use an electric blanket properly.

Are some electric blankets cheaper to run than others?

Electric underblankets, overblankets, and mattress protectors typically have wattages that are similar. However, they can be made more or less expensive to run depending on the available parameters.

On the lowest setting, Dreamland spokesperson Jacqueline Townson claims, a Dreamland mattress protector costs just 1p every night for seven hours of heating. For an Intelliheat+ single-size blanket tested by Imetec, these figures are based.’

A wide variety of heat settings on electric blankets will save money in the long term, because you may set them to the temperature you choose. Between 18 to 56 degrees is typical.

How much does it cost to run an electric blanket? | Metro News

What energy saving features should I look for when buying an electric blanket?

There are a number of electric blanket characteristics that can help you save energy at home, such as:

1. Temperature sensors

These blankets can sense your body temperature and the temperature of the room, and then alter the blanket’s heat accordingly. As a result, you save energy because it won’t overheat.

2. Timer

According to Dreamland spokesman Jacqueline Townson: “Look for an electric blanket that has an auto shut-off timer so you won’t be wasting energy if you fall asleep or forget to switch it off.”

3. Dual controls

Some electric blankets feature two controls instead of just one. This means you can conserve energy by adjusting the two blankets independently. Whether one half of a relationship likes a chillier atmosphere or the other is away, these are ideal.

4. Variable heat settings

For longer periods of time at low heat, look for an electric blanket with multiple heat settings.

How can I cut the cost of running an electric blanket?

  • Slow and steady wins the race. Before you go to sleep, set a timer for your electric blanket to turn on. For example, rather than turning up the heat to full power 10 minutes before you go to bed you can instead choose a lower setting that uses less energy.
  • Observe and adjust as necessary. When you’re not feeling the heat, turn up your electric blanket’s temperature setting from its lowest setting. Not only does this save energy, but it’s quicker to warm up a bed than chill it down.
  • Turn down the temperature in your home. Electric blankets are an excellent alternative to cranking up the heat on a cold night because they consume very little energy. Silentnight spokesperson Sally Bonser recommends using an electric blanket to warm your bed and lowering your thermostat because your bedroom will no longer need as much heat. According to the Energy Saving Trust, lowering your main thermostat by only one degree can result in a 10% reduction in your monthly energy costs.
  • Keep it out of harm’s way. If you fold an electric blanket when it’s not in use, the small wires inside can be broken, which means it won’t perform as well. When not in use, roll the blanket up instead than folding it. To help you locate a place to store the blanket while it’s not in use, there are numerous bedroom storage alternatives.

Electric Blanket FAQs

What is the purpose of an electric blanket?

A blanket with built-in heating elements is what an electric blanket is. Even in the coldest of places, it keeps the wearer warm. They’re a popular way for individuals to save money on their home heating.

Is it safe to use an electric blanket?

Most current electric blankets are risk-free unless defective or out of date. Electric blankets, on the other hand, can catch fire or even burn your flesh if they are used incorrectly. Make sure there are no loose wires or damage to the blanket.

What are the disadvantages of electric blanket?

An electric blanket’s primary drawback, in my opinion, is the potential for fire. Neither bunkbeds nor waterbeds are suitable for us because of their incompatibility. Also, never use a space heater with anything that could catch fire, such as bed sheets or comforters. Another significant drawback is that due to the wiring within, it cannot be washed like a regular blanket.

How much does an electric blanket cost to run in the UK? - Household Money Saving

What you should not do with an electric blanket?

Because it has a heating unit that might be dangerous in the hands of youngsters, the first thing you should not do is leave it near them. The second thing to remember is to prevent damaging the internal connections by pinching or twisting the floppy drive. Finally, do not use one on wet bedding or with heating pads on your mattress.

Do electric blankets use a lot of electricity?

Small, energy-efficient carbon wires form the basis of modern electric blankets. The wattage, which can range from 15 to 115 watts, determines how much energy it uses. If you reside in the United States, you may be subject to a kWh rate of roughly 13 cents. So, if you use your electric blanket for 10 hours a day and it uses 100 watts, it will cost you around 13 cents a day.