How Much Does a TV 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 50-inch LED TV costs approximately 6p per day and around £22 per year to run based on 4 hours of viewing per day. TVs are relatively inexpensive to run compared to heating and cooking appliances.
Calculator24.5p/kWh
W
hrs
p/kWh
Per hour
1.5p
Per day
5.9p
Per week
41.2p
Per month
£1.79
Annual cost
£21.46
Typical annual electricity use: 87.60 kWh
Based on typical tv usage at current rates.
Annual estimate
£21.46
Annual electricity use
87.60 kWh
Typical household bill context
About 3% of a typical home's annual variable electricity spend at the current default rate.
What Affects the Cost of Running a TV?
TV running costs depend on: Screen size — a 32-inch LED uses approximately 30W while a 65-inch OLED uses up to 120W. Display technology — OLED TVs generally use more power than LED/LCD TVs. Brightness settings — higher brightness increases power draw significantly.
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 TV Running Costs
Reduce the backlight brightness — this is the single biggest energy saver for TVs and most are set too bright by default. Enable the eco mode or power-saving mode in your TV settings.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about electricity costs and our calculators.