Otis Singleton
With the rising cost of living in Ireland, many households are looking for ways to cut down on energy consumption. One way to do this is by using electric heaters, which are simple to use and come in many forms, such as electric radiators, underfloor heating, and portable heaters. While electric heaters are usually cheap to buy, making them seem cost-effective, they may not be the most economical option for heating your home. This is because they heat a much smaller area compared to central heating, and the heat dissipates quickly if the rest of the home is cold. The cost of running an electric heater depends on factors such as the heater's power, the cost of electricity, and how long it is used for.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cost-effectiveness | Electric heaters are considered a cost-effective choice, especially over fossil fuels such as gas or coal. |
| Cost calculation | The cost of running an electric heater depends on its power (kilowatts) and the cost of electricity per kilowatt-hour. |
| Cost range | Electric heaters can cost anywhere between 8p and 76p per hour, depending on their power and electricity rates. |
| Electricity rates | Electricity rates fluctuate, and utilities typically charge different rates during peak and off-peak hours. |
| Energy-saving features | Some electric heaters offer energy-saving features like Adaptive Start, Open Window Technology, and PID Intelligent Control. |
| Safety | Electric heaters with exposed heating elements pose a fire risk if they come into contact with flammable objects. |
| Maintenance | Electric heating systems generally require little to no maintenance once installed. |
| Installation costs | Electric radiators are simple to install and do not require expensive equipment like boilers or pumps. |
| Labour costs | Labour costs for electric heating systems can be 40-75% lower than conventional wet systems. |
| Efficiency | Electric heaters heat a smaller area compared to central heating, and the heat dissipates quickly if the room is not well-insulated. |
| Water heating | Using an electric immersion heater with an Economy 7 or 10 tariff is cheaper at night, but ensure the tank is well-insulated. |
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What You'll Learn
Electric heaters are one of the most expensive forms of heating
The cost of running an electric heater depends on various factors, including the price of electricity, the heater's power consumption, and the length of usage. In Ireland, the cost of electricity varies, and different suppliers offer different rates. The time of day can also impact the cost, with peak hours typically costing more than off-peak hours. Additionally, the power consumption of electric heaters can range from 2kW to 5kW, and the higher the power consumption, the higher the running cost.
Calculating the cost of running an electric heater involves multiplying the power consumption in kilowatts by the cost of electricity per kilowatt-hour and the usage time. For example, a 2kW heater running constantly for 24 hours would cost approximately €7.50 per day. A 150W heater, on the other hand, would cost significantly less, at around 3 cent per hour. It's important to note that these calculations are estimates, and actual costs may vary based on specific circumstances.
To reduce the costs associated with electric heaters, some people opt for storage heaters, which take advantage of lower off-peak electricity rates at night. However, storage heaters have their drawbacks, such as requiring twice the power to heat large clay blocks for 8-9 hours to deliver 7 hours of heat the next day. They are also unreliable and difficult to control, often resulting in frustration for homeowners. Faulty thermostats in storage heaters can lead to expensive repair costs.
While electric heaters may be a convenient option, their running costs can quickly escalate, making them one of the most expensive forms of heating. To save on energy bills, it is advisable to explore alternative heating methods or invest in energy-efficient solutions.
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Electricity rates are constantly fluctuating
The cost of running an electric heater depends on various factors, such as the size of the premises, the number of heaters, the heater's power (kilowatts), and the length of time it is used. For example, a 2kW heater running constantly for 24 hours would cost approximately €7.50 per day. On the other hand, a 150W halogen heater would cost about €0.03 per hour to run, while a 1500W halogen heater would cost around €0.30 per hour.
It's worth noting that electric heaters may not be the most efficient choice for maintaining a stable temperature over a long period, especially if you need to heat multiple rooms or an entire house. Central heating systems are generally more effective in these cases, as electric heaters heat a much smaller area.
To calculate the cost of running an electric device, you can use the following equation: Cost = power (kilowatt) x cost of one kWh (pence) x the length of time (hour, day, week, or month). This calculation can help you estimate the expenses associated with different electric heaters and make informed decisions about their usage.
Additionally, there are ways to optimise your electric heating system to make it more cost-effective. For instance, electric radiators with high thermal ceramic heating elements and digital thermostat controls are known for their efficiency and low running costs. Smart heating systems, such as the ATC Smart Range, offer features like Open Window Technology, Adaptive Start, and PID Intelligent Control, allowing you to control your heating remotely and customise settings to suit your needs. These advancements can help you manage your energy usage and keep costs to a minimum.
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Electric heaters are simple to use but have safety risks
Electric heaters are generally simple to use and can be a cost-effective way of keeping warm. They are plug-in devices that work by passing electricity through a resistor to convert it into heat. However, they have potential safety risks that should be considered.
One of the main safety concerns with electric heaters is the risk of fire. The hot bars on electric heaters are exposed, and if they come into contact with other household items, they could spark a fire. According to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, electric heaters cause an estimated 25,000 fires and 300 deaths each year in the United States. The National Fire Protection Association has also released public advisories regarding fires caused by space heaters. It is important to place electric heaters on a level, stable surface and keep them away from flammable objects such as paper, furniture, curtains, and blankets. A clear zone of at least three feet around the heater is recommended.
Another safety hazard associated with electric heaters is electrocution. Most electric heaters require an AC outlet for power and use metal coils to heat the air. It is crucial to avoid touching the coils and other metal parts, especially with wet hands. Additionally, electric heaters should be kept away from sources of water, such as sinks, bathtubs, and doors or windows where water may enter from outside.
It is also important to purchase electric heaters from trusted manufacturers or retailers to ensure safety and quality. Second-hand heaters may be faulty and pose a safety risk. Before using an electric heater, it is essential to check that the appliance is registered and has not been recalled. Regularly testing smoke alarms is vital to ensure early detection in case of any issues.
While electric heaters can be convenient and cost-effective, it is crucial to be aware of their potential safety risks. By taking the necessary precautions and using them properly, you can minimise the chances of accidents occurring.
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Storage heaters are unreliable and difficult to control
The reliability of storage heaters is questionable, especially in temperatures below freezing. If a storage heater is not heating up, it could be due to incorrect installation, poor insulation, or a faulty thermostat or element. They are also known to be difficult to control, with users reporting issues with adjusting the temperature.
Storage heaters typically have two controls: a charge control ("input"), which determines how much heat is stored, and a draught control ("output"), which controls the rate at which heat is released. The input control has a significant impact on running costs, and adjusting it slightly can help reduce electricity bills without sacrificing comfort. The output control helps with heat retention and should be turned down when no one is home to conserve heat.
However, automatic storage heaters can be particularly frustrating, as they sense room temperature and override the input charge for the next day. This means that users cannot control how much input charge they have for the following day, which can be problematic if there are sudden fluctuations in temperature. In such cases, manual storage heaters are recommended as they provide more control over the desired heat output.
Additionally, storage heaters generally require two power circuits and two power switches, adding to the complexity of the system. During the summer, both switches are turned off, while the off-peak switch can be left on during other months, with the on-peak switch used as needed. The use of a fan to speed up heat transfer can also increase the amount of airborne dust, making it unsuitable for people with allergies.
High Heat Retention Storage Heaters (HHRSH) are the newest storage heaters on the market, offering improved heat retention and responsiveness to environmental changes. They also include smart controls and comply with EcoDesign regulations, aiming to reduce energy consumption.
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Energy-saving hacks include wearing jumpers and turning off lights
While electric heaters are simple to use, they can be expensive to run. They are usually cheap to buy, but as electricity rates fluctuate, it is difficult to give a general estimate of electric heating costs. However, there are some energy-saving hacks to keep your heating costs to a minimum.
Energy-saving hacks include wearing jumpers and turning off the lights. While this may seem like an uncomfortable option, it is one of the most popular methods, with 65% of people surveyed saying they wear jumpers to keep warm. Socks are also a common choice, with 40% of people keeping their feet warm this way. However, these options will only keep you warm to a certain extent, and eventually, the temperature in your home may become uncomfortably cold.
Another popular option is to use an electric blanket, with 14% of people surveyed saying they use this method to keep warm. However, this will increase your energy spending. The same goes for leaving the oven on to heat your home, which is done by 8% of people. Not only will this increase your energy spending, but it is also a potential safety hazard.
Instead, try switching to LED light bulbs, which consume up to 90% less energy than traditional light bulbs and have a much longer lifespan. An LED light bulb costs less than £2 to run per year, while a halogen bulb costs around £8. With an average of 35 light bulbs in a household, the savings are clear.
You can also consider installing an A-rated boiler, which will save you an average of £315 a year, according to the Energy Saving Trust. While this option requires a significant upfront cost of between £800 and £1000, it is a long-term investment that will pay off in about three years.
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Frequently asked questions
The cost of running an electric heater in Ireland depends on the price of electricity, the heater's power rating, and the length of time it is used. For example, a 2kW heater running for 24 hours would cost around €7.50 per day.
Electric heaters are generally considered one of the most expensive forms of heating. Central heating systems, such as gas or oil, are often more cost-effective as they can heat an entire home, whereas electric heaters only heat one room. However, electric heaters can be a good alternative to central heating in certain situations, such as when you only need to heat a single room.
Electric heaters can pose a fire risk if not used properly. It is important to keep them away from flammable objects and to place them on a level surface to prevent them from being knocked over. It is also recommended to buy from reputable manufacturers or retailers and to ensure your smoke alarms are working properly.
