Are Electric Blankets Expensive To Run

So, there I was, curled up like a human burrito, basking in the warm glow of my electric blanket. It was one of those chilly nights where you'd sell your soul for a hug from the sun. I was enjoying my cozy cocoon when it suddenly hit me - was this little slice of heaven costing me a fortune? I mean, I love my blanket, but I'm not made of money!

Now, I know what you're thinking, "Oh no, here we go again with the 'is this gadget going to break the bank' routine." But hear me out, I'm just a curious cat trying to understand if my electric blanket is a financial black hole or just a warm, fuzzy friend.

Let's Talk Watts

First things first, let's dive into the nitty-gritty of electric blankets. They're essentially big, fluffy resistors, turning electricity into heat. The amount of heat they generate is measured in watts. The higher the wattage, the hotter the blanket. My blanket, for instance, is a toasty 200 watts.

But here's where it gets interesting. The cost of running an electric blanket isn't just about the wattage. It's also about how long you leave it on. I mean, sure, a 200-watt blanket is going to cost more to run than a 100-watt one, but if you're only using it for an hour a day, it's not going to break the bank.

Cost Calculator

So, let's do some math. The cost of running an electric blanket can vary depending on where you live, but let's take the average cost of electricity in the US, which is about 13 cents per kWh. A 200-watt blanket used for an hour a day would cost about 0.85 cents per day, or around $30 per year. Not bad, huh?

But wait, what if you're a blanket hugger like me and you leave it on all night? Well, that's about 8 hours of use, which would cost around $2.50 per month, or $30 per year. Still not too shabby, but it's more than doubling the cost.

Energy Saving Tips

Now, I know what you're thinking, "I don't want to choose between a warm bed and a full bank account." Well, don't worry, there are ways to have your cake and eat it too. For instance, you could turn your blanket on just before you go to bed and turn it off once you're warm. Or you could invest in a blanket with a timer, so it turns itself off after a set period.

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

You could also consider getting a blanket with adjustable heat settings. This way, you can use the lowest setting possible and still stay warm. And remember, every little bit helps. Turning your thermostat down a degree or two can also save you money in the long run.

Safety First

Now, before you go rushing out to buy an electric blanket, let's talk safety. Electric blankets can be a fire hazard if they're not used correctly. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and never leave your blanket on while you're not in the room. And if your blanket is more than 10 years old, it might be time to replace it.

Also, if you're using an old-style blanket with wires, you might want to consider upgrading to a low-voltage, underblanket style. They're safer and more energy-efficient. Plus, they don't have those annoying wires that always seem to end up tangled around your feet!

The Verdict

So, are electric blankets expensive to run? Well, it depends. If you're a light user, they're not going to cost you much more than a few cups of coffee a year. But if you're a heavy user, the cost can add up. But remember, there are ways to save money and stay safe while enjoying the cozy comfort of an electric blanket.

And hey, if all else fails, you could always just wear more socks. Your wallet will thank you!