The cost of running a television in the UK is set to increase from July 1, 2026, as energy regulator Ofgem raises gas and electricity prices by 13%. According to USwitch, the average household watching four hours and 30 minutes of TV daily could see annual costs reach £42.89, based on a typical power consumption of 100 watts.
Average Viewing Habits Vary by Age
Broadcasting watchdog Ofcom reports that the average UK adult spends four hours and 31 minutes watching television each day. However, viewing time differs significantly by age: those aged over 65 watch six hours daily, while younger adults average just 53 minutes. These figures directly impact energy costs, as longer viewing times increase electricity usage.
Factors Affecting TV Energy Consumption
USwitch explains that televisions typically consume between 40W and 200W when switched on, depending on the model, screen size, and settings. A budget 32-inch LCD set running a Freeview signal uses far less power than a 77-inch OLED streaming 4K content at full brightness. Other factors include the type of screen (LED, OLED, or QLED), age of the TV, brightness settings, and overall usage.
USwitch stated: "Compared with other household appliances, such as tumble dryers and fridges, televisions don't use that much electricity. But they can be the biggest energy guzzlers of your entertainment equipment, particularly if they're large." They added: "TVs are rated for energy efficiency on a scale of A-G. Many will have an E-G rating, which is considered poor for household appliances."
Additional Costs and Equipment
The £42.89 figure excludes extra devices commonly used with televisions, such as set-top boxes, Sky boxes, surround sound systems, soundbars, DVD/Blu-ray players, and games consoles. Larger-than-average TVs will also incur higher costs. Furthermore, households must factor in the TV Licence, which rose to £15 per month from April 2026—a legal requirement for watching live TV or accessing BBC content via iPlayer.
Tips to Reduce TV Energy Costs
USwitch advises consumers to consider screen size and type when purchasing a new TV. "An energy-efficient 32-inch LCD will typically use half the power of a model with a 42-inch plasma screen. In general, the smaller your TV, the less it will cost you to run, but the type of television is also crucial, as is its age," they said. Adjusting brightness settings and reducing daily viewing time can also lower electricity consumption.
