How Much Electricity Do Slow Cookers Use?

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, slow cookers have become the unsung heroes of the kitchen, allowing us to simmer our stews to perfection while we go about our day. But as energy bills climb higher than a cat up a tree, it's only natural to wonder, "How much electricity do slow cookers use?" Fear not, for we're about to delve into the watts, costs, and culinary delights of slow cooking, all while keeping things as hearty as a bowl of mum's homemade soup.

The Lowdown on Slow Cooker Energy Consumption

Slow cookers, much like the assortment of biscuits at a tea party, come in various sizes and power ratings. Typically, their power consumption ranges between 100 watts (W) and 320 W, depending on the model and cooking setting. To put that into perspective, that's about the same energy usage as a traditional incandescent light bulb. ​

Here's a breakdown of common slow cooker sizes and their approximate power usage:

Slow Cooker Size

Power Consumption (Watts)

1.5 Quarts

80 W

2 Quarts

120 W

3 Quarts

150 W

4-5 Quarts

170 W

6 Quarts

180 W

7 Quarts

250 W

8 Quarts

320 W

Note: 1 quart is approximately 0.95 litres. ​

Cooking Up the Costs

To determine how much electricity your slow cooker uses, you'll need to know:

1. Power Rating (Watts): This is usually indicated on the appliance or in the user manual.​

2. Cooking Duration (Hours): How long you plan to let your culinary masterpiece simmer.​

3. Electricity Tariff (Pence per Kilowatt-Hour): The rate your energy provider charges. As of January 2025, the average UK rate is approximately 25p per kWh.​

Example Calculation:

Let's say you have a 170 W (0.17 kW) slow cooker, and you're preparing a delicious stew that requires 8 hours of cooking.

1. Electricity Used per Cooking Session:
   0.17 kW × 8 hours = 1.36 kWh

2. Cost per Cooking Session:
   1.36 kWh × 25p/kWh = 34p

So, your hearty 8-hour stew would cost you just 34 pence in electricity.​

Slow Cookers vs. Ovens: The Energy Showdown

You might be wondering how slow cookers stack up against traditional ovens in terms of energy consumption. While ovens cook food faster, they operate at much higher power levels, typically around 2,000 W to 5,000 W. Even with shorter cooking times, ovens often consume more energy overall. In contrast, slow cookers use significantly less power over longer periods, making them more energy-efficient for many dishes. ​

Example Comparison:

• Oven: A 2,500 W oven running for 1.5 hours (90 minutes) would use:​ 2.5 kW × 1.5 hours = 3.75 kWh​ Cost: 3.75 kWh × 25p/kWh = 93.75p​

• Slow Cooker: A 170 W slow cooker running for 8 hours would use:​

  0.17 kW × 8 hours = 1.36 kWh​ Cost: 1.36 kWh × 25p/kWh = 34p​

In this scenario, using a slow cooker not only saves energy but also reduces your cooking costs.​

Tips to Maximise Energy Efficiency with Your Slow Cooker

To make your slow cooking adventures even more economical:

1. Choose the Right Size: Select a slow cooker that suits your household's needs. A larger cooker consumes more power, so avoid using a 7-quart model for a meal meant for two.​

2. Utilise the Low Setting: Cooking on the low setting uses less energy and can enhance flavours by allowing ingredients to meld over time.​

3. Keep the Lid On: Resist the temptation to lift the lid during cooking. Each peek lets heat escape, extending cooking time and energy usage.​

4. Batch Cooking: Prepare multiple portions and freeze leftovers. Reheating consumes less energy than cooking a new meal from scratch.​

5. Plan Efficient Recipes: Opt for dishes that make the most of your slow cooker's capacity and cooking style, maximising both flavour and energy efficiency.​

Conclusion             

So, how much electricity do slow cookers use? The answer is pleasantly low. With modest power consumption and the ability to create delicious, fuss-free meals, slow cookers are a cost-effective addition to any kitchen. By embracing the art of slow cooking, you can savour hearty dishes without stirring up a storm in your energy bills. Now, isn't that a recipe for success?​