Do Slow Cookers Use a Lot of Electricity? Unveiling the Truth

Slow cookers have become a kitchen staple for busy households, offering a convenient way to prepare hearty meals with minimal effort. But as energy costs rise and sustainability becomes a priority, many people wonder: Do slow cookers use a lot of electricity? This question taps into concerns about appliance efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and eco-friendliness. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the energy consumption of slow cookers, compare them to other cooking methods, and explore ways to maximize their efficiency—all while keeping your budget and the planet in mind.

How Much Electricity Does a Slow Cooker Actually Use?

To answer the core question—do slow cookers use a lot of electricity?—we need to look at their power usage, measured in watts. Most slow cookers range between 70 to 250 watts, depending on their size, model, and settings (low, medium, or high). On average, a standard 4- to 6-quart slow cooker uses about 150–200 watts per hour when operating on the low setting, which is the most commonly used mode.

Let’s break this down with a real-world example. If you run a 200-watt slow cooker on low for 8 hours (a typical cooking time for many recipes), it consumes:

• 200 watts × 8 hours = 1,600 watt-hours
• 1,600 watt-hours = 1.6 kilowatt-hours (kWh)

Now, electricity costs vary by location. In the United States, the average cost per kWh is around $0.15 (as of early 2025). So, the cost to run that slow cooker would be:

• 1.6 kWh × $0.15 = $0.24

That’s right—just 24 cents for an entire 8-hour cooking session. Compared to other kitchen appliances, this is remarkably low. But is it “a lot” of electricity? To determine that, let’s compare it to alternatives.

Slow Cookers vs. Other Appliances: An Energy Showdown

To truly understand whether slow cookers are energy hogs, we need to stack them up against common cooking methods like ovens, stovetops, and microwaves. Here’s how they compare:

• Conventional Oven: A typical electric oven uses 2,000–5,000 watts per hour. Roasting a chicken for 2 hours at 2,500 watts consumes 5 kWh, costing about $0.75 at the same rate. That’s over three times the energy of a slow cooker for a shorter cooking time.
• Stovetop (Electric): An electric burner averages 1,200–2,000 watts. Simmering a stew for 2 hours at 1,500 watts uses 3 kWh, or $0.45—still double the slow cooker’s cost for less time.
• Microwave: Microwaves range from 600–1,200 watts, but they cook much faster. Heating a meal for 10 minutes (0.167 hours) at 1,000 watts uses 0.167 kWh, or about $0.025. However, microwaves aren’t suited for long, slow-cooked dishes like stews or roasts.

The takeaway? Slow cookers use significantly less electricity per hour than ovens or stovetops. Their long cooking times might make you think they’re power-hungry, but their low wattage keeps energy consumption minimal.

What Factors Affect Slow Cooker Energy Use?

Not all slow cookers are created equal, and several variables influence how much electricity they draw:

1. Size: A 1.5-quart slow cooker for small batches uses less power (around 70–100 watts) than an 8-quart model for large families (up to 250 watts).
2. Settings: The “low” setting (typically 100–150 watts) uses less energy than “high” (200–250 watts). Some modern slow cookers also have a “keep warm” mode, which drops to as low as 50 watts.
3. Cooking Time: Recipes requiring 6 hours on high use more energy than those cooked for 8 hours on low, even if the total watt-hours balance out similarly.
4. Insulation: Well-insulated models retain heat better, reducing energy waste. Older or cheaper slow cookers may lack this efficiency.
5. Lid Lifting: Every time you lift the lid, heat escapes, forcing the appliance to work harder to regain temperature—potentially adding 15–20 minutes of energy use per peek.

By choosing the right size, sticking to the low setting when possible, and resisting the urge to check your dish, you can keep electricity use even lower.

Are Slow Cookers Cost-Effective and Eco-Friendly?

Beyond the raw numbers, slow cookers shine in both cost-effectiveness and environmental impact. At just $0.20–$0.30 per use, they’re a budget-friendly option for home-cooked meals, especially compared to takeout or dining out. For eco-conscious cooks, their low energy draw translates to a smaller carbon footprint than firing up a full-sized oven. Pair them with renewable energy sources like solar power, and they become even greener.

However, efficiency isn’t just about the appliance—it’s about how you use it. Cooking in bulk and freezing leftovers maximizes the value of each session, reducing the need for additional cooking later.

Tips to Minimize Slow Cooker Electricity Use

Want to squeeze even more efficiency out of your slow cooker? Try these practical strategies:

• Fill It Properly: Most slow cookers work best when filled halfway to two-thirds. Overfilling or underfilling can waste energy as the appliance struggles to heat evenly.
• Prep Ahead: Start with room-temperature ingredients instead of cold ones straight from the fridge to reduce heating time.
• Use a Timer: Programmable slow cookers switch to “keep warm” mode automatically, preventing unnecessary energy use after cooking is done.
• Layer Wisely: Place dense ingredients like root vegetables at the bottom, where heat concentrates, for faster, more even cooking.
• Avoid Peak Rates: If your utility company charges higher rates during peak hours, schedule your slow cooker to run overnight or during off-peak times.

Busting Myths: Do Slow Cookers Really Save Energy?

A common misconception is that slow cookers’ long run times cancel out their low wattage. While it’s true they’re on for hours, their energy use remains a fraction of high-wattage appliances. Another myth? That they’re only good for winter stews. In reality, slow cookers can make summer-friendly dishes like pulled chicken or yogurt without heating up your kitchen like an oven would.

The Verdict: Do Slow Cookers Use a Lot of Electricity?

No, slow cookers don’t use a lot of electricity. With an average consumption of 1.2–2 kWh per 8-hour session, they’re one of the most energy-efficient appliances in your kitchen. Their low wattage, combined with long, steady cooking, makes them a cost-effective and eco-friendly choice compared to ovens, stovetops, or even air fryers for large meals. Whether you’re a budget-savvy cook or an environmental enthusiast, slow cookers deliver big flavor without a big electric bill.