“Does a Space Heater Use a Lot of Electricity? How It Affects Your Energy Bill” Survey (2025)

Space heaters are a go-to solution for warming up a chilly room quickly, especially during the winter months. But while they offer instant comfort, many homeowners wonder if that cozy warmth comes at a cost—specifically, a higher electricity bill.

Let’s break it down and look at what recent 2025 energy surveys reveal about space heater usage and its impact on your energy consumption.

How Much Electricity Does a Space Heater Use?

Most standard space heaters run on 1,500 watts (1.5 kW) of electricity. If you use one for 8 hours a day, here’s the rough estimate:

1.5 kW x 8 hours = 12 kWh/day

At an average electricity rate of $0.16 per kWh, that’s $1.92/day

Monthly cost (used daily): $57.60/month

So yes, space heaters can use a lot of electricity if used frequently or left running for long periods—especially in comparison to central heating systems designed to heat larger areas more efficiently.

What the 2025 Survey Found

According to a nationwide survey of U.S. homeowners in early 2025:

63% of respondents noticed a 20%–35% increase in their winter energy bill when regularly using space heaters.

41% used a space heater as a primary heat source in specific rooms, rather than heating the entire home.

22% were unaware of how much power their heater consumed.

This highlights a key issue: many users underestimate how much energy their space heaters draw, leading to higher-than-expected energy bills.

Smart Usage Tips

To reduce electricity costs while staying warm:

Use space heaters only when necessary and in closed rooms.

Turn them off when leaving the room or going to bed.

Choose energy-efficient models with timers and thermostats.

Layer up with blankets or wear warmer clothing indoors to reduce reliance.

Bottom Line

Space heaters are effective but not the most energy-efficient solution, especially when used for long periods. If you're relying on one for everyday heating, you might want to consider a more energy-conscious approach—or invest in a more efficient heating system in the long run.