By the Electric Fireplace Hub UK Team · Updated May 2026 · Independent, reader-supported

How Much Does an Electric Fireplace Cost to Run in the UK? (2025 Rates)

Electric fireplaces offer the visual warmth of a traditional fireplace without installation hassle, but before buying one, it's worth understanding the actual running costs. The answer depends on the model's wattage, how often you use it, and your electricity rate—but the maths is straightforward once you know the formula.

The Basic Calculation

Electric fireplaces typically draw between 750 W and 2000 W. Most common models are 1 kW (1000 W) or 2 kW (2000 W).

Under the April 2025 Ofgem price cap, the typical electricity unit rate is around 24p per kWh (this varies slightly by region and your specific tariff, but it's a reasonable current benchmark). To calculate the cost:

Cost per hour = (Wattage ÷ 1000) × Unit rate in pence ÷ 100

For a 1 kW fireplace: (1 ÷ 1) × 24p = 24p per hour

For a 2 kW fireplace: (2 ÷ 1) × 24p = 48p per hour

Running a 1 kW model for 8 hours a day costs roughly £1.92 daily, or £57.60 per month. A 2 kW version would double that to £3.84 daily, or £115.20 monthly.

These figures assume constant use at full power. Many electric fireplaces have a flame-only mode that uses no heating element—just the visual effect—which costs nothing beyond a negligible standby draw (typically less than 1p monthly).

Real Usage Patterns Matter

Most people don't run electric fireplaces continuously. A typical usage pattern might be:

• 3–4 hours daily during winter months (October to March)
• 0–2 hours during warmer months

If you use a 1 kW fireplace for 3.5 hours daily across six winter months, the cost works out to around £50–60 for the season. That's genuinely affordable—far less than many heating alternatives.

Switch to flame-only mode in autumn or spring when you want ambiance without heat, and the cost plummets.

Comparing 1 kW vs 2 kW Models

The choice between wattages affects both cost and performance.

1 kW models suit small to medium rooms (up to roughly 200 sq ft). They're quieter, more economical, and sufficient for supplemental heating or primary heating in well-insulated spaces. Running costs are roughly £5–8 per month if used moderately through winter.

2 kW models heat larger spaces faster and reach higher ambient temperatures. Use one as your main heat source in a 300+ sq ft room, and costs rise to £10–15 monthly, but you gain significantly more warmth output. The extra 1 kW doubles heating power, which matters if you're sitting close to the fireplace or heating a larger room.

Neither is inherently "better"—it depends on room size, insulation, and whether you're using the fireplace for comfort or as a primary heater.

How Electricity Tariffs Affect the Cost

The Ofgem price cap updates quarterly. The 24p unit rate (April 2025) is lower than late 2024, when rates peaked closer to 28–30p. Check your latest electricity bill for your exact rate; some fixed-rate tariffs are cheaper, others slightly pricier.

A fixed-rate tariff under 23p per kWh would cut fireplace running costs by roughly 10% compared to the price-cap estimate. Conversely, if you're on an older tariff at 30p+, costs are proportionally higher.

If you're on an Economy 7 tariff with cheaper off-peak rates (often 15–18p per kWh), running your fireplace during off-peak hours significantly cuts expenses—though few people schedule fireplace use around tariff times.

Running Costs vs. Other Heating Methods

For context: a typical gas central heating system costs 8–10p per kWh of heat delivered (accounting for boiler efficiency). An electric fireplace at 24p per kWh looks expensive in direct comparison, but that's misleading. Electric heaters are 100% efficient (all electricity becomes heat), while gas boilers lose efficiency through flues and distribution pipes.

If you're using an electric fireplace to heat one room instead of warming an entire house, it's often cheaper than central heating. Heating a single bedroom for 4 hours daily costs far less than running your boiler across a whole property.

Storage heaters (Economy 7) might seem cheaper on unit rates, but require specific tariffs and offer little flexibility. Heat pump heaters are more efficient but cost 2–3× more upfront.

How to Keep Running Costs Down

Use the thermostat. Many electric fireplaces have built-in thermostats; set them to 18–19°C rather than blasting maximum heat. The fireplace switches on only when temperature drops, slashing energy use while maintaining comfort.

Prioritise insulation. Close doors to unheated rooms. Draught-proof windows and doors. Thick curtains reduce heat loss. These measures cut running costs by 20–30% without touching the fireplace settings.

Switch to flame mode off-season. Use the flame effect without the heater element in milder months. Massively reduces cost while preserving ambiance.

Choose 1 kW for small spaces. If heating a single bedroom or lounge, a 1 kW model is usually sufficient and costs half as much as 2 kW.

The Bottom Line

An electric fireplace costs 24–48p per hour under current UK rates, depending on wattage. Over a typical winter season of moderate use, you're looking at £50–150, which is economical for the comfort and aesthetic value. The cost isn't fixed—it depends entirely on how long you run it and your local electricity rate—but the maths is simple enough to budget accurately.

The biggest cost-saving moves aren't about choosing the "right" fireplace; they're about using it sensibly: thermostat control, insulation improvements, and realistic usage patterns. An energy-efficient 1 kW model with a reliable thermostat often outperforms a larger, cheaper alternative that lacks temperature control.