The cost of electric heating isn’t limited to the price of the radiator. To estimate your budget, you also need to factor in installation costs and electricity use throughout the year. Whether you’re choosing a convector or an inertia radiator, replacing a single unit or fitting out an entire home, here are the key prices to know in 2026.
How much does electric heating cost by technology?
The price of an electric radiator varies according to its output, heating system and control features. A convector heater generally has a lower upfront cost. An inertia radiator costs more, but its heating core distributes heat more gradually, even after the heating element switches off.
| Technology | Indicative price | Key points |
|---|---|---|
| Electric convector heater | €20 to €200 | Affordable to buy, but the feeling of warmth fades quickly after it switches off. |
| Radiant panel heater | €60 to €2,000 | Heat is felt nearby, with little thermal inertia. |
| Dry-inertia radiator | €200 to €1,000 | Heat is distributed more gradually and continues after the heating element switches off. |
| Electric towel rail | Varies by model | The price depends in particular on the output, control features and functions available. |
These prices are for guidance only. Output, heating core type, control features and connectivity options can all affect the price. Current promotions also influence the purchase price.
Beyond the purchase price, control features and repairability are also important when choosing a unit. Energy-efficient electric radiators let you compare models to suit your budget, while inertia radiators provide gradual heat distribution.
How much does it cost to install electric heating?
Installation costs depend mainly on the condition of the electrical system and the number of radiators to connect. Replacing a unit at an existing cable outlet is simpler than an installation that requires new circuits.
- Replacing a heater on an existing cable outlet: if the installation meets regulations and you’re confident making the connection, installation may be straightforward. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and switch off the power before starting work.
- Creating or modifying a circuit: call a qualified electrician if a circuit needs to be created, if the installation has a fault, or if you’re unsure whether it meets regulations.
- Equipping an entire home: An overall estimate can be given per square meter, but it varies considerably depending on the number of appliances, electrical work and room layout. A range of €50 to €100/m² is sometimes quoted for a complete installation; this should be confirmed with recent quotes.
A wall-mounted electric radiator connects directly to the electrical wires at a cable outlet, not to a regular socket. The connection must comply with the applicable safety regulations, including standard NF C 15-100. The precautions to take before installing an electric radiator yourself depend on the condition of the electrical installation and your electrical skills.
For a reliable estimate, request several detailed quotes. Make sure they break down the equipment, labor and any work needed to bring the installation up to code.
How much does electric heating cost to run?
The running cost of electric heating is calculated by multiplying its power in kilowatts (kW) by its actual heating time in hours, then by the price per kilowatt-hour (kWh). Consumption depends in particular on the home’s insulation, the desired temperature and the radiator’s controls.
Illustrative example: calculating the annual cost of an electric radiator
- Wattage of the radiator: 1.5 kW (1,500 W)
- Actual heating time: 6 hours per day, corresponding to the time the heating element is actually operating, not the length of time the appliance is switched on.
- Heating period: 150 days per year.
- Electricity price used: €0.2001/kWh (rate to be checked before publication).
Consumption: 1.5 kW × 6 h × 150 days = 1,350 kWh.
Estimated cost: 1,350 kWh × €0.2001 = €270.14 per year for this radiator, excluding the electricity subscription.
The price per kWh varies depending on your contract and tariff option. For reference, a rate of €0.1589/kWh during off-peak hours should also be checked before publication. This option can be worthwhile when scheduling lets you shift some of your electricity use to these time slots, particularly with a storage heater that releases heat gradually.
A schedule tailored to your household’s habits helps limit unnecessary heating periods. To refine your estimate based on the appliance’s wattage and how long it is used, see our guide to electric radiator energy consumption.
Bestherm tip: Choose a reliable, well-regulated, repairable radiator to keep your costs under control in the long term.
Electric or gas heating: which costs less?
Energy prices alone aren’t enough to compare two heating systems. Direct electric heating can cost more to run than a condensing gas boiler or an efficient heat pump, but an electric radiator doesn’t require a boiler or central heating system. So, when comparing costs, you need to consider equipment prices, installation, energy consumption and maintenance.
| Heating system | Indicative price per kWh of heat | To consider |
|---|---|---|
| Well-adjusted heat pump | 5.0 cents | Higher upfront investment and maintenance required. |
| Condensing gas boiler | 16.2 cents | Boiler, gas supply and periodic maintenance. |
| Electric radiator | 20.0 cents | Generally straightforward installation, with no boiler to maintain. |
| Heating oil | 22.8 cents | Boiler, fuel storage and maintenance. |
These prices per kWh of heat are comparative estimates and vary depending on energy prices and equipment performance. Actual costs also depend on home insulation and heating needs. To choose between several options, compare equipment costs, energy consumption and maintenance over several years.
Since the electricity conversion factor was revised, the energy rating for a home heated with electricity may be more favorable. This change affects the home’s energy rating, not the amount of electricity the radiator actually consumes.
How can you reduce the cost of electric heating?
A radiator that’s right for the room and correctly adjusted helps avoid unnecessary heating. Scheduling, the setpoint temperature and home insulation also play an important role in energy consumption.
- Choose the right output for your home: allow around 100 W/m² in a well-insulated home and 125 W/m² in a less well-insulated home. These guidelines should be adjusted according to the room’s volume, ceiling height and heat loss. Calculating the radiator output required per m² helps you make a more precise choice.
- Set the temperature according to the room: a setpoint of 19 °C in occupied living areas and 16 to 17 °C in bedrooms is a common guideline. According to ADEME, lowering the temperature by one degree can reduce heating consumption by around 7%, depending on usage conditions.
- Schedule heating periods: adjust the temperature to your routine and lower it when you’re away. If available, open-window detection can prevent unnecessary heating while airing out the room.
- Consider repairability: some Bestherm radiators have a replaceable thermostat with a 3-year warranty. If the control unit breaks down, replacing it may be enough to get the appliance working again. Radiators with replaceable thermostats therefore make it possible to replace a component rather than the entire radiator, depending on the nature of the fault.
Is financial assistance available for installing electric heating?
Replacing electric heaters does not automatically entitle you to financial assistance. L’Eligibility for MaPrimeRénov’ or energy savings certificates (CEE) depends on the scheme in question and the work carried out.
Before starting the work, check the current conditions with France Rénov’. This will help you find out whether your project is eligible, what steps to take, and whether an application must be submitted before work begins.
FAQ: Everything you need to know about the cost of electric heating in 2026
How much does an inertia electric radiator cost?
An inertia electric radiator generally costs between €200 and €1,000, depending on its power, heating system, and features. Connected models or those with advanced controls may cost more. These amounts are indicative and should be confirmed against recent public prices.
What is the price per kWh of electricity in 2026?
Under the regulated electricity tariff, the kWh is listed at €0.2001 including tax for the Base option and €0.1589 during off-peak hours, effective August 1, 2026. Check the current rates with CRE: the price charged depends on your electricity plan.
How much does it cost to run an electric radiator for an hour?
At €0.2001 per kWh, one hour of operation at full power costs around €0.20 for a 1,000 W radiator, €0.30 for 1,500 W, and €0.40 for 2,000 W. The actual cost is often lower because the thermostat switches off the heating element once the set temperature is reached.
Does electric heating cost more than gas?
Per kWh of heat, direct electric heating can cost more than a condensing gas boiler, depending on the tariffs and efficiencies compared. However, the overall assessment should also take into account installation and maintenance costs, the home’s heating needs, and any work that may be required.
Can you install an electric radiator yourself to reduce costs?
Replacing a radiator can be simple when a suitable cable outlet is already in place and the installation is compliant. If a new circuit is needed or you are unsure about the connection, call a qualified electrician.
Updated on 30/10/2026
