electric blanket cost per hour

Understanding the Cost of Using an Electric Blanket Per Hour

As the chilly months approach, many people look for ways to stay warm and cozy in their homes. Electric blankets are a popular choice for their convenience and comfort. However, one question that frequently arises is what is the cost of using an electric blanket per hour?

The Basics of Electric Blankets

Electric blankets are designed to provide warmth by using electric heating elements sewn into the fabric. They can be used in various settings, such as on beds, couches, or even at outdoor events when the temperature drops. Most electric blankets offer adjustable heat settings, allowing users to choose their preferred level of warmth.

Understanding Energy Consumption

To calculate the cost of using an electric blanket per hour, we first need to understand how much energy it consumes. Electric blankets typically have wattages that range from about 60 to 200 watts, depending on the model and its heat settings. The wattage indicates the amount of energy it uses when active; thus, a higher wattage will consume more electricity.

For example, if you have a blanket that consumes 100 watts of power, it uses 0.1 kilowatts (kW) per hour. The formula to determine energy consumption is

\[ \text{Energy Consumption (kWh)} = \frac{\text{Wattage}}{1000} \times \text{Hours Used} \]

If you run this blanket for one hour, its consumption would be

\[ \text{Energy Consumption} = \frac{100}{1000} \times 1 = 0.1 \text{ kWh} \]

Calculating the Cost

To determine the cost of running an electric blanket, you need to know the cost of electricity in your area. Electricity is typically billed in cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh). According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, as of 2023, the average cost of residential electricity in the United States is about $0.13 per kWh.

Using our previous calculation for a 100-watt electric blanket

\[ \text{Cost Per Hour} = 0.1 \, \text{kWh} \times 0.13 \, \text{USD/kWh} = 0.013 \, \text{USD} \]

Thus, it would cost approximately 1.3 cents per hour to run a 100-watt electric blanket.

Higher and Lower Wattage Blankets

For electric blankets with different wattages, the cost per hour will vary. Here’s a quick breakdown

- 60 watts - Energy consumption 0.06 kWh - Cost 0.06 * $0.13 = approximately 0.008 cents per hour.

- 200 watts - Energy consumption 0.2 kWh - Cost 0.2 * $0.13 = approximately 0.026 cents per hour.

Considerations

While the cost of operating an electric blanket per hour may seem minimal, it is essential to consider the overall usage. If you leave it on for several hours every night during winter, the total costs can accumulate over the season.

For instance, if you use a 100-watt electric blanket for 8 hours each night over a month (30 days), the cost would be

\[ \text{Total Cost} = 0.1 \times 0.13 \times 8 \times 30 = 3.12 USD \]

Conclusion

Electric blankets can be a cost-effective and energy-efficient way to stay warm during the colder months. Understanding how much it costs to operate them per hour can help you manage your energy expenses better. By knowing the wattage of your blanket and the cost per kilowatt-hour in your area, you can calculate the exact cost for your specific situation. As you cozy up under your electric blanket this winter, you can do so with the knowledge of how much you’re spending to stay comfortable.