What does a Heatstrip patio heater cost per hour in electricity? In this article we calculate it exactly for you, per Heatstrip model, at current Dutch electricity rates for 2026.
The calculation: energy use per hour = power (kW) x price per kWh. Average variable electricity rate in the Netherlands in 2026: 0.34 euros per kWh including grid charges and VAT. With a dynamic contract this can drop to 0.15 euros or even go negative during solar-surplus hours.
Cost per Heatstrip model at the standard rate
Classic 1500W: 0.51 euros per hour. 50 evenings at 4 hours = 102 euros per season.
Classic 2400W: 0.82 euros per hour. 50 evenings = 164 euros per season.
Classic 3200W: 1.09 euros per hour. 50 evenings = 218 euros per season.
Design 2400W: 0.82 euros per hour (identical use to the Classic 2400W).
Design 3600W: 1.22 euros per hour. 50 evenings = 244 euros per season.
Heatstrip versus the gas mushroom heater
A gas patio heater uses 0.6-1.2 kg of propane per hour. At a price of 3.50 euros per kg = 2.10-4.20 euros per hour. That's 3-5x more expensive than a Heatstrip. On top of that: gas heaters are far less efficient in wind, whereas infrared works directly on people.
Can you run it more cheaply? Three tips
- Install a dimmer (ordered separately): power adjustable from 50-100%. In milder weather, a 30-50% saving.
- 2. Combine with a wind screen or canopy: raises the perceived temperature and shortens the run time.
- 3. Don't switch on pre-emptively: a Heatstrip warms up within 30 seconds.
Dynamic electricity contracts and solar panels
With a dynamic contract (Tibber, Frank Energie, Anode) the rate varies by the hour. Run your Heatstrip during off-peak hours: costs halve. With a solar surplus: heat on effectively free electricity. 100 hours of Classic 2400W = 82 euros at the standard rate, 40-60 euros on a dynamic one.
200 hours per season of Classic 2400W = 480 kWh = roughly the one-day yield of 65 m² of solar panels.
Frequently asked questions
What does a Heatstrip cost per month? 2 hours a day of Classic 2400W = around 49 euros per month.
Can I connect a 2400W to an ordinary circuit? Yes, 230V x 16A = 3680W max. 2400W is well within the limit.
Does a dimmer really save money? Yes, linearly: 50% power = 50% cost.
Is a Heatstrip green? On green electricity or your own solar: zero CO2 emissions. On standard electricity: considerably lower than a gas mushroom heater.
Does my electricity meter run backwards with solar panels? Under net metering it does in 2026; this is being phased out towards 2031.
Ready to choose? Browse our Heatstrip collection or ask STERK Zonweringen for personal advice.
Deel:
Installing a Heatstrip: the complete 2026 mounting guide
Folding-arm awning or screen? Which sun shading suits you