Are electric heaters energy-efficient?
When considering the energy efficiency of a heater, it’s important to consider the wattage (energy consumed) and weigh this up against the type of heat generated, how long it lasts and how long the device will need to be turned on for. You can access the average cost per hour of running your heater using an online energy calculator.
"Fan heaters and large convection or panel heaters can cost between 50p and 60p per hour to run, while halogen heaters and oil-filled radiators can cost between 30p and 40p an hour," says Matthew Jenkins, heating expert at MyJobQuote. "Infrared panels typically cost between 20p and 40p an hour to run, and as they heat efficiently, they don’t usually need to be kept on for as long as convection-style heaters.
"Going for a heater with sensors and smart functionality should help you keep running costs down. Some models come with adjustable power settings, eco modes, timers and open-window detection to help you run your heater more efficiently."
What’s the best type of electric heater to heat a room?
"The best electric heater for a room depends on the size of the space and what you’re using the heater for," explains Matthew Jenkins. "If you’re looking for gentle warmth over a long period of time, an oil-filled radiator, ceramic radiator or panel heater is probably most suitable.
"If you’re looking for an electric heater that can warm you up quickly when it’s particularly cold, or you need to heat a small space that isn’t covered by your central heating, then an infrared heater is often the best choice. Infrared heaters directly heat people, objects and surfaces rather than the air. This makes them efficient, and you quickly feel the benefit when they’re on. Plus, the warmth it transfers to objects and surfaces can help a space to remain at a comfortable temperature after you switch it off.
"For supplementary heating that can easily be set up in any room, a portable space or fan heater is probably most convenient. However, these can be expensive to run, so they’re best for occasional rather than regular use."
Are electric heaters safe to use?
Most electric heaters come with important features for safety and peace of mind. As well as overheat protection, many heaters also include an auto shut-off function, cutting the power automatically if the heater is accidentally knocked over.
That said, it’s still important to exercise caution, especially with halogen-based heaters, ensuring they’re placed on a flat and stable surface away from flammable fabrics and upholstery. You should also avoid having any trailing wires which could create a dangerous tripping hazard.
What’s the best electric heater to buy?
With excellent reviews amongst Mumsnet users and online reviewers alike, the De'Longhi Dragon 4 Oil-Filled Radiator gets our top pick for the best electric heater you can buy today. Unlike some heaters which are suited to personal heating, this low-maintenance and portable design offers long-lasting heat across the entire room, with a built-in timer to help you manage the temperature of your surroundings.
About the author
Lucy Cotterill is a mum of two and a Content Writer at Mumsnet, specialising in family and lifestyle product reviews and round-ups. Having written reviews on her own blog Real Mum Reviews since 2012, Lucy loves to research and explore the pros and cons of products, scrutinising expert guidance and consumer feedback to help parents make confident purchases that benefit their families.
Not only is Lucy a fan (see what we did there) of her own Dyson Hot + Cool Fan Heater, but she’s also written numerous Mumsnet Swears By guides on how to keep warm in winter, including the best thermals and best heated slippers, and put several hand warmers through their paces during the school run last winter.
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