cost of electric blanket per hour

Understanding the Cost of Electric Blankets Per Hour

Electric blankets are a popular choice for those seeking warmth and comfort, particularly during the colder months. However, one question that frequently arises is what is the cost of using an electric blanket per hour? This question is particularly relevant as consumers become more budget-conscious and environmentally aware. By understanding the cost per hour of running an electric blanket, individuals can make informed decisions about their heating options.

First, it's essential to understand how electric blankets work. They are equipped with a network of wires that heat up when electricity is passed through them. Most electric blankets have multiple heat settings, allowing users to customize their level of warmth. While this customization is beneficial for comfort, it also affects the cost of operation.

To calculate the cost of running an electric blanket per hour, one must first consider its wattage. Electric blankets typically range from 60 to 100 watts. For the sake of estimation, let’s assume an average electric blanket uses 70 watts.

To convert watts to kilowatts (which is how electricity is billed), we divide by 1,000. Thus, 70 watts becomes 0.07 kilowatts. Next, we need to consider the electricity costs, which vary widely depending on the location. As of 2023, the average cost of electricity in the United States is around $0.13 per kilowatt-hour (kWh).

Now, we can calculate the hourly cost of using the electric blanket

\[ \text{Cost per hour} = \text{Power (in kW)} \times \text{Cost of electricity (per kWh)} \]

\[ \text{Cost per hour} = 0.07 \, \text{kW} \times 0.13 \, \text{USD/kWh} \approx 0.0091 \, \text{USD} \]

This calculation indicates that running an average electric blanket costs approximately $0.0091 per hour, or about 0.91 cents. While this may seem minimal, if it is used for several hours each day, the costs can add up over time.

For example, if someone runs their electric blanket for 8 hours every night during a 30-day month, the total cost calculation would look like this

\[ \text{Total cost} = \text{Cost per hour} \times \text{Hours used} \times \text{Days used} \]

Substituting in our numbers

\[ \text{Total cost} = 0.0091 \, \text{USD/hour} \times 8 \, \text{hours/night} \times 30 \, \text{days} \approx 2.18 \, \text{USD} \]

Thus, using an electric blanket for 8 hours nightly over a month would cost approximately $2.18. This is a relatively low cost for the comfort and warmth that an electric blanket provides.

In conclusion, understanding the cost of operating electric blankets per hour is crucial for budget-conscious consumers. With average costs hovering around 0.91 cents per hour, electric blankets emerge as an economical choice for heating needs. They provide warmth efficiently, especially when compared to heating entire rooms. As energy prices continue to fluctuate, always check local rates to determine your specific costs, ensuring your comfort doesn’t come with unexpected financial surprises.