How Much Does a Kettle Cost to Run?
Updated March 2026. Default rate effective 1 April 2026 (Ofgem Q2 2026). Figures are typical estimates rather than model-specific guarantees.
A typical kettle costs around 2.4p per boil and approximately £36 per year to run based on 4 boils per day. Kettles are one of the most frequently used kitchen appliances in UK households, drawing between 2,200W and 3,000W.
Calculator24.5p/kWh
W
times
min
p/kWh
Per use
2.5p
Per day
9.8p
Per week
68.6p
Per month
£2.98
Annual cost
£35.77
Typical annual electricity use: 146.00 kWh
Based on typical kettle usage at current rates.
Annual estimate
£35.77
Annual electricity use
146.00 kWh
Typical household bill context
About 5% of a typical home's annual variable electricity spend at the current default rate.
What Affects the Cost of Running a Kettle?
The main factors affecting your kettle running costs are: Wattage — most UK kettles are 3,000W due to our 240V mains supply. Amount of water — boiling a full 1.7L kettle takes about 4 minutes versus 2 minutes for one cup. Frequency — the typical UK household boils the kettle 4 times per day. Limescale — built-up limescale forces the element to work harder and longer.
Helpful guides
Related appliances
Assumptions and methodology
- Electricity rate: 24.5p/kWh (Ofgem Q2 2026)
- Default wattage is based on a typical appliance in this category
- Usage assumptions are meant to be a sensible starting point, not a fixed rule
- Costs vary with tariff, model, settings, load size, and household habits
Tips to Reduce Kettle Running Costs
Only boil the amount of water you need — a full kettle takes twice as long and uses twice the energy. Descale your kettle regularly as limescale makes it work harder. If you only need hot water for one cup, consider whether a hot water dispenser might be more efficient for your usage pattern.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about electricity costs and our calculators.