Heated Towel Rail Power Consumption & Running Costs

For many Australians, the idea of installing a heated towel rail conjures images of cosy, hotel-like luxury. But with energy prices on the rise, you might be wondering, “how much power does a heated towel rail use?” and “are heated towel rails expensive to run?”

The answer to these questions depends on three key factors: wattage, design, and timer controls. Let’s explore these in detail.

Wattage: Heated Towel Rail Power Consumption

The wattage of a heated towel rail plays the biggest role in determining running costs. Traditional models, particularly older ones, often consume between 300 and 500 watts of power. These higher-wattage rails can cost up to 15 cents per hour to run, which adds up significantly over time. In contrast, energy-efficient models like the Gordon Vertical Heated Towel Rail use just 200 watts. At an electricity rate of 30c per kWh in Australia, Gordon costs approximately 6 cents per hour to operate. When used for three hours daily as recommended, that’s only 18 cents a day or about $5.40 per month - a fraction of the cost of less efficient alternatives.

Design: Efficiency in Form

The design of your heated towel rail also influences energy consumption and running costs. Vertical models, such as the Gordon Heated Towel Rail, are particularly effective at promoting airflow and speeding up drying times. Hanging towels vertically, rather than folding them over like on a horizontal towel rail, reduces humid air pockets and increases contact with the heating surface. This means faster drying and less energy used. Additionally, materials matter. Models like the Gordon Heated Towel Warmer feature an electric heating element and aluminium construction, which ensures quicker heat-up and cool-down times compared to steel models with liquid heating elements. These design considerations make a significant difference in efficiency and cost.

Timer Controls: Smarter Usage

Can you leave a heated towel rail on overnight? The answer is yes, it’s safe, but it’s not ideal for energy efficiency. Even the most efficient towel rail can rack up costs if left running unnecessarily. That’s where timer controls come in.

Using a programmable timer switch ensures your heated towel rail operates only when needed, such as during your morning routine or after evening showers. For instance, pairing Gordon with a Clipsal Iconic Wiser Switch allows you to preheat towels one hour before use and run for two hours afterward. This approach keeps your towels warm and dry without wasting energy, making it both convenient and cost-effective.

Final Thoughts

So, how much does a heated towel rail cost to run in Australia? By considering wattage, design, and timer controls, you can keep costs surprisingly low. Energy-efficient models like Gordon allow you to enjoy warm, dry towels every day for just a few cents per hour. The Gordon Heated Towel Rail is the smart, sustainable choice for Australian bathrooms.

This article featured in the Autumn '25 edition of BIMCRUNCH Australia. Enjoy the full magazine here. To explore further or to download BIM objects from Eskimo, simply join Bimstore for free access to their products and accompanying literature. For additional insights, visit their manufacturer profile on Bimstore, their company website or socials.