Heated Clothes Airer Running Cost – Honest Numbers
Heated airers (heated clothes horses) look like the cheap alternative to a tumble dryer – and they often are, if you understand the maths. The formula is simple:
Typical wattages and costs
| Airer type | Wattage | Typical run time | Cost @ 35 ct/kWh |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small winged airer | 300 W | 6–8 h | €0.63–0.84 |
| Standard heated airer | 1,000 W | 4–5 h | €1.40–1.75 |
| Large tower airer | 1,200 W | 3–4 h | €1.26–1.68 |
| With cover | 1,000 W | 2–3 h | €0.70–1.05 |
Three ways to cut the cost
- Use a cover. A simple fabric cover traps warm air and cuts drying time by 30–50 %.
- Spin at high speed. 1,400 rpm instead of 800 removes far more water before the airer starts.
- Don't overload. Air needs to flow between garments; crammed racks dry unevenly and run longer.
The catch: where does the water go?
Unlike a tumble dryer, a heated airer releases all evaporated water into your room. That's 2–3 litres per load heading for the coldest surface in your flat. If you already see condensation on windows, combine the airer with a dehumidifier or ventilate well – otherwise you trade dry clothes for damp walls.
Comparison: dehumidifier vs tumble dryer · German cost calculator: Trocknungs-Kosten-Rechner
FAQ
Is a heated airer cheaper than a tumble dryer?
A heat pump dryer (€0.50–0.60 per load) usually beats a 1,000 W airer (€1.40 per load). But the airer is far cheaper to buy and gentler on delicate fabrics.
How many hours does a heated airer need?
Typically 3–6 hours with a cover, 5–8 without. Jeans and towels take the longest.