heated throw cost to run

Understanding the Cost of Running a Heated Throw

As colder months approach, many people seek comfort in various forms of heating. One cozy option that has gained popularity is the heated throw, a blanket that provides warmth at the touch of a button. While the feeling of snuggling under a heated throw is delightful, potential users may wonder about the cost of running one. In this article, we explore the factors influencing the cost of running a heated throw and help you understand how to use it efficiently.

How Heated Throws Work

Heated throws are typically made from soft, warm materials with built-in heating elements. These elements are usually electric and can be powered by an outlet. Users can adjust the heat settings to suit their preferences, making heated throws versatile for various needs—be it warming up on a chilly evening or providing soothing relief for sore muscles.

Power Consumption

The primary factor that determines the cost of running a heated throw is its power consumption, measured in watts. Most heated throws have a power rating between 50 to 300 watts. To figure out how much it will cost to run a heated throw, you can use the following formula

1. Calculate the Daily Usage in Hours Decide how many hours per day you plan to use the throw. 2. Convert Watts to Kilowatts Since energy providers charge per kilowatt-hour (kWh), divide the wattage by 1000. For instance, a 150-watt heated throw would consume 0.15 kWh.

3. Daily kWh Consumption Multiply the daily usage in hours by the kilowatt rating. If you use the 150-watt throw for 5 hours, you would consume 0.15 kWh * 5 = 0.75 kWh.

4. Calculate Cost Lastly, multiply the daily kWh consumption by your local electricity rate (usually available from your utility provider). If your rate is $0.12 per kWh, the daily cost of running the throw would be 0.75 kWh * $0.12 = $0.09, or 9 cents per day.

Monthly and Seasonal Costs

Using the formula outlined above, you can easily extend the daily cost to a monthly or seasonal estimate. For instance, using the heated throw for 5 hours a day over a month (30 days) would incur a total cost of

- Monthly Cost $0.09 * 30 = $2.70

If you run it for the entire 3-month winter season, the total would be approximately

- Seasonal Cost $2.70 * 3 = $8.10

Factors Influencing Usage Costs

Several factors may influence your actual cost of running a heated throw

1. Heat Settings Most heated throws come with multiple heat settings. Using a lower setting can significantly reduce power consumption.

2. Duration of Use The longer you use the heated throw, the higher your electricity bill will be. Being mindful of usage can help save costs.

3. Room Temperature If your living space is cold, you may find that you need to use the throw for longer periods. Keeping your home at a comfortable temperature can help mitigate heating costs.

4. Energy Efficiency Choosing an energy-efficient model with features like automatic shut-off timers can help decrease both energy consumption and costs.

Conclusion

Heated throws offer a wonderful way to stay warm during cold weather without incurring high energy costs. By understanding the factors that influence power consumption and implementing strategies to use them efficiently, you can enjoy the cozy comfort of a heated throw without worrying about significant increases in your electricity bill. Remember to monitor your usage and select your heat settings wisely, ensuring that comfort does not come at an unreasonable financial cost.