Quick answer: A massage chair uses power mainly while a program runs and very little on standby. To estimate cost, find the rated wattage on the chair's label or in the owner's manual, then multiply: watts ÷ 1,000 × hours used × your rate per kWh. For example, a chair rated at 200 W used 30 minutes a day uses 0.1 kWh a day; multiply that by your utility rate.
Where do you find your chair's wattage?
Two places:
- The rating label: usually near the power inlet or on the base. It lists voltage and rated power in watts (W).
- The owner's manual: the specifications page usually lists rated power.
Use that figure, not a guess. Wattage varies by model, so we don't list a single number for all chairs. Terms like rated power are in our massage chair glossary.
How do you calculate the running cost?
kWh per day = rated watts ÷ 1,000 × hours of use per day
Cost per day = kWh per day × your electricity rate (from your bill)
Example inputs (illustrative only, not the rating of any specific chair):
| Example rated power | Daily use | kWh per day | Working |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100 W | 15 min | 0.025 | 100 ÷ 1,000 × 0.25 h |
| 200 W | 30 min | 0.10 | 200 ÷ 1,000 × 0.5 h |
| 300 W | 30 min | 0.15 | 300 ÷ 1,000 × 0.5 h |
To get a monthly figure, multiply kWh per day by the days you use the chair, then by your rate. Use the rate on your own bill, since rates vary by utility and plan. The rated wattage is the maximum, so actual use may be lower depending on the program, heat and airbags.
Session length matters too. See why your massage chair stops: timers and session length.
Does standby use power?
A little. Many chairs have a main power switch. If you're away for a long time, follow your owner's manual: switch off at the main switch or unplug.
What outlet does a massage chair need?
Follow your owner's manual. Most home massage chairs plug into a standard household outlet. Our massage chair maintenance guide recommends always using a surge protector, and the massage chair owner's guide covers setup. If you're still comparing chairs, our guide on how to choose the right massage chair covers the other specs worth checking.
What happens in a power outage?
Check your owner's manual for what your model does when power cuts out and how to return it upright. If the chair doesn't work properly after power returns, see massage chair troubleshooting and repair or contact support.
Which method suits you?
| Pick | If you... |
|---|---|
| Use the label figure | want the most accurate estimate for your chair |
| Use the formula with example inputs | want to compare chairs or plan a budget |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do massage chairs use a lot of electricity?
Generally a modest amount while running, and little on standby. The exact figure depends on your chair's rated wattage and how long you use it. Find the wattage on the label or in the manual, then use the formula: watts ÷ 1,000 × hours × your rate.
Do I need a special outlet for a massage chair?
Follow your owner's manual. Most home chairs use a standard household outlet. Using a surge protector is a good idea; our maintenance guide covers it.
Should I unplug my massage chair when I'm not using it?
Follow your owner's manual. Many owners switch off at the main switch or unplug when they'll be away for a long period, and during storms.
Is it OK to use a massage chair if I have a health condition?
Check with your doctor first if you have a health condition, are pregnant or have an implanted device. Also read your chair's owner's manual for its own safety guidance, and check the height and weight range on the product page before you buy.
Specs and prices as listed on each product page; prices change, so check the product page for today's price. Prices change; see each product page for today's price. Written by the eMassageChair team.
