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How much does a TV cost to run?

Written by James Whitfield · Updated 28 October 2026 · 6 min read · Checked against 2026/27 DWP & HMRC rates
Contents (3 sections)
  1. Quick answer: TV running costs
  2. Reading the energy label
  3. Who these figures cover
Quick answer: TV running costs
  • LG's 43UM662H4LC is labelled 51 kWh per 1000 hours (class F) and 73 kWh per 1000 hours in HDR.1
  • That is 1.3p an hour, or 1.9p an hour in HDR, at 26.32p per kWh.
  • Four hours a day for a year: £19.60 (£28.05 in HDR).
  • Last checked: 28 October 2026.

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Reading the energy label

TV labels give kWh per 1000 hours. Divide by 1000 for one hour, then multiply by your unit rate. The label shows a separate figure for HDR.

Work out your own cost →

Who these figures cover

Costs use the Ofgem price cap average for England, Scotland and Wales, 26.32p per kWh by Direct Debit, 1 October to 31 December 2026. Your region and tariff change it.2

HMRC: “The temporary zero rate applies from 1 October 2026 to 30 June 2027.” The Budget on 28 October 2026 extended it from 31 March (announced; the legislation is due in early 2027). Gas stays at 5% VAT.3 In Northern Ireland, use the unit rate on your bill.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a TV cost an hour?
1.3p for the 43-inch example in standard mode, at 26.32p per kWh.
Does HDR cost more?
Yes: the same TV is labelled 73 kWh per 1000 hours in HDR against 51 in standard mode.

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Sources & references

The figures and rules in this guide are drawn from the official UK government sources below. Rates are the confirmed 2026/27 amounts. Each link opens the relevant official page in a new tab.

  1. LG: 43UM662H4LC product information sheet (energy label) www.lg.com/uk/lgecs.downloadFile.ldwf?DOC_ID=20241113229240&FILE_NAME=43UM662H4LC_UKE.pdf&GSRI_DOC=GSRI&ORIGINAL_NAME_b1_a1=43UM662H4LC_UKE%5B20241113101800321%5D.pdf&SPEC_DOWNLOAD=N&TC=DwnCmd
  2. Ofgem: Energy price cap unit rates and standing charges, 1 October to 31 December 2026 www.ofgem.gov.uk/your-energy-supply/your-energy-bill/energy-price-cap-unit-rates-and-standing-charges
  3. HMRC: VAT on fuel and power (Notice 701/19), updated 28 October 2026 www.gov.uk/guidance/vat-on-fuel-and-power-notice-70119
Verified against published UK government guidance.
Independent guide only. Written using published 2026/27 DWP and HMRC figures. Not an official government service. For case-specific guidance, contact Citizens Advice or a welfare-rights adviser. Methodology · Editorial standards

Written and reviewed by James Whitfield and the editorial team.

Every figure is checked against current GOV.UK guidance and reviewed for the 2026/27 tax year. We explain the numbers in plain English with worked examples. Editorial standards · About us