How Many Watts Does an Electric Blanket Use? Electric Blanket Wattage Guide

Electric blankets typically use between 60 to 150 watts, depending on their size and heat settings. As winter sets in, these cozy devices provide an efficient way to keep warm without overloading your home’s heating system. Whether you’re using it for a quick warm-up or as a long-term heating solution, knowing how many watts an electric blanket uses can help you optimize its use.

In this article, we’ll explore wattage details, cost of powering an electric blanket, and tips to stay warm while keeping expenses low.

Key Takeaways About Electric Blanket Wattage

• Average wattage: electric blankets generally use between 50 to 150 watts, depending on their size and heat settings.
• Factors Influenced wattage:except the size and heat setting, the material used and usage duration can significantly affect energy consumption.
• Daily energy consumption: using an electric blanket for 8 hours typically consumes 0.4 to 1.2 kWh of energy.
• Safe use of electric blanket: always follow manufacturer guidelines to prevent overheating and ensure safe operation.

How Many Watts Does an Electric Blanket Use?

Electric blankets are a winter essential, but their wattage varies based on size, material, and temperature settings. Understanding these differences helps optimize energy consumption and costs.

Electric Blanket Wattage by Size

The wattage of an electric blanket depends on its size and type (standard or thickened). Larger and thicker blankets generally consume more power. Below is a table showing average wattages and estimated daily energy use for winter (assuming 8 hours of use per day):

Blanket Size	Type	Wattage (W)	Daily Energy Use (kWh)
Single	Standard	50	0.4
Single	Thickened	70	0.56
Double	Standard	100	0.8
Double	Thickened	120	0.96
Large	Standard	150	1.2
Large	Thickened	180	1.44

Electric Blanket Wattage by Temperature Setting

People's sensitivity to temperature varies, and ambient conditions can differ when using electric blankets. To cater to diverse needs, most electric blankets come with multiple temperature settings, allowing users to avoid overcooling or overheating. Higher settings consume more power, increasing energy usage. Opting for lower levels when high heat isn't necessary can help save energy effectively. Here’s a breakdown of wattage across different heat levels:

Temperature Setting	Wattage (W)	Approx. Temperature (°C)	Best Use Case
Preheat	30	20-25	Quickly warming the bed before sleep.
Low (Mild Warmth)	50	25-30	Maintaining gentle warmth for mild winters.
Medium	80	30-35	General winter use for moderate comfort.
High	120	35-40	Providing extra warmth in cold conditions.
Ultra High	150	40-45	Combating extreme cold or fast heating needs.
Off	0	0	For storage or when heating is unnecessary.

Electric Blanket Wattage by Material

The material used in the heating element also affects the wattage. Below is a table showing typical wattages for common materials:

Material	Characteristics	Wattage (W)	Heating Method	Features
Nickel-Chromium Alloy	Durable and widely used	100-150	Electrical Resistance	Traditional heating method, relatively cheap, but slow warming.
Carbon Fiber	Lightweight and flexible	50-120	Infrared Heating	Fast warming, even heat distribution, long service life.
Graphene	Advanced technology, energy-efficient	50-100	Far Infrared Heating	Very fast warming, wide heat coverage, good flexibility.
Water-Heated	Circulates heated water, varies by pump	60-180	Water Circulation	Uniform temperature, high security, but larger volume.

How Much Will It Cost to Run An Electric Blanket?

Using an electric blanket can be a cost-effective way to stay warm during colder months. Larger electric blankets consume more energy, leading to higher costs. This table estimates the three-month cost based on the blanket size and average U.S. electricity rates ($0.13/kWh).

Size	Wattage (W)	Hours/Day	kWh/Month	3-Month Cost
Small (Twin)	50	8	12	$4.68
Medium (Full/Queen)	80	8	19.2	$7.49
Large (King)	120	8	28.8	$11.23

Different temperature levels impact power consumption and operational costs. The table below provides an estimate for three months of use at various settings.

Temperature Setting	Wattage (W)	Hours/Day	kWh/Month	3-Month Cost
Low (Mild Warmth)	50	8	12	$4.68
Medium	80	8	19.2	$7.49
High	120	8	28.8	$11.23
Ultra High	150	8	36	$14.04

State	Average Electricity Rate (2024, $/kWh)	kWh/Month	3-Month Cost
Alaska	$0.214	24	15.41
Minnesota	$0.122	24	8.78
North Dakota	$0.08	24	5.76
Montana	$0.109	24	7.85
Wisconsin	$0.127	24	9.14
Maine	$0.208	24	14.98
Vermont	$0.175	24	12.60
New Hampshire	$0.23	24	16.56

Estimates are based on 8 hours of daily usage over 90 days at 100W.

Renogy Solar Panels For Electric Blanket When Off-Grid

Winter camping or RVing with your beloved dogs, calls for reliable warmth to keep everyone cozy. Whether you’re nestled in your RV or camping off-grid, maintaining comfort with an electric blanket is crucial. Solar panels offer a sustainable way to power the electric blanket, even in remote locations, providing peace of mind during cold nights.

220W Lightweight Portable Solar Suitcase

Ideal for pet owners and adventurers with modest power requirements,  renogy 220 watt lightweight portable solar suitcase is compact, foldable, and incredibly lightweight. Its durable, rust-resistant frame withstands harsh weather, including strong winds, rain, and extreme temperatures. With an impressive 22.7% efficiency, it maximizes energy production, ensuring your electric blanket stays powered throughout chilly nights. Perfect for minimalist setups, it’s a dependable choice for solo campers or light winter outings.

Renogy 150W CIGS Solar Panel

When you're winter camping or overlanding, staying warm is a top priority, and that often means relying on an electric blanket for comfort. However, a reliable power source is essential, especially in harsh weather. The  Renogy 150W CIGS Solar Panel is an excellent solution for this. Its lightweight design makes it perfect for mounting on your vehicle’s roof without adding unnecessary stress or weight—something especially important when you're dealing with the already heavy load of winter gear. The panel’s easy adhesive mounting system allows for hassle-free installation, so you can quickly set up your solar power system without worrying about complex wiring or additional hardware.

What sets this solar panel apart is its ability to deliver twice the output in partial shading, which can be a game-changer in winter camping when the sun can be obstructed by clouds, snow, or trees. Even when the weather isn’t perfect, the 150W CIGS Solar Panel ensures a steady power supply to your electric blanket, keeping you warm and comfortable. Whether you're parked in a snow-covered campsite or under overcast skies, this solar panel ensures that your power needs are met, providing peace of mind during your winter adventures.

200 Watt 12 Volt Flexible Monocrystalline Solar Panel

For those who enjoy camping or overlanding, the  200W 12V Flexible Monocrystalline Solar Panel is an excellent option. It provides over 1000 watt-hours of power with just 5-6 hours of direct sunlight, maintaining over 80% output efficiency for up to 25 years. This is especially important in winter, as an electric blanket requires a consistent power supply to keep you warm. The panel's design ensures that even on cloudy days or when partially shaded, it can still work effectively. By providing reliable energy for your electric blanket, this solar panel allows you to enjoy warmth whether you're at home or camping in the wild, eliminating the limitations of traditional power sources.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the wattage of your electric blanket is key to optimizing its usage while keeping your energy costs in check. Whether you're using it to warm up your bed at night or relying on it for a consistent heat source during cold winter months, being mindful of its energy consumption can help you use it more efficiently. With typical wattages ranging from 60 to 150 watts, your electric blanket offers a cozy and cost-effective way to stay warm without relying on expensive heating systems.

If you're planning to use your electric blanket regularly, especially in off-grid or outdoor settings, you might want to consider solar-powered solutions like the Renogy solar panels we discussed. These solar panels can provide a sustainable, reliable power source for your electric blanket, especially during camping or winter road trips, allowing you to stay warm without worrying about depleting your power supply.

FAQs About Electric Blanket Wattage

1. How many watts does an electric blanket typically use?

Electric blankets generally use between 60 to 150 watts, depending on their size and heat settings. Smaller blankets or lower heat settings may use closer to the lower end of the spectrum, while larger blankets or higher heat settings can reach the higher end. For example, a twin-size electric blanket might use around 60-100 watts, while a queen-size blanket could range from 100-150 watts.

2. Are electric blankets safe to use all night?

Yes, electric blankets are generally safe to use all night as long as they are used according to the manufacturer's instructions. Most modern electric blankets come with built-in safety features, such as automatic shut-off timers and temperature controls, which help prevent overheating. To ensure safe use, always check for any signs of wear, such as frayed wires or damaged power cords, and never use a blanket with exposed wires. If you're concerned about safety, look for blankets that are UL-listed, as this indicates they've been tested for safety standards.

3. Can electric blankets be washed?

Yes, electric blankets can usually be washed, but it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s care instructions to avoid damaging the blanket or its electrical components. Many electric blankets are machine washable, but you should always disconnect the power cord and control unit before washing. Use a gentle cycle with cold or lukewarm water, and avoid using harsh detergents or fabric softeners, which can damage the wires or insulation. If the manufacturer recommends hand washing or dry cleaning, be sure to follow those guidelines. Always check for any visible wear or damage before washing to ensure the blanket is safe to clean.