Molly Ayala
With sustainability becoming increasingly important, many are considering switching to electric radiators. Electric radiators are convenient, easy to install, and can be more economical than storage heaters. However, the most economical choice for you will depend on your specific needs and the space you're heating. In this regard, heat pumps are often considered more efficient than electric radiators, but they come with a higher upfront cost. This article will explore the various options available and provide guidance on choosing the most economical electric radiator for your needs.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type | Electric radiators, infrared heaters, heating towers, oil-filled radiators, fan heaters |
| Factors Influencing Output | Size of the room, number of exterior walls, number of windows and doors |
| Calculation | British Thermal Unit (BTU) is a common measure of the heat emitted by a radiator. If the BTU is too low, the space will not heat efficiently. To calculate the BTU, measure the length, width, and height of the room and consider windows and patio doors. |
| Cost-Effectiveness | Using an electric heater in one room could be more cost-effective than turning on central heating throughout the home. |
| Wattage | Models with lower wattage, simple functionality, and efficient design tend to have lower running costs. |
| Space | Electric heaters are suitable for small spaces. |
| Safety | Some heaters lack safety features. |
| Noise | Oil-filled radiators are silent but slow. Fan heaters are noisy. |
| Energy Efficiency | Electric heaters are the most efficient devices as the energy put in is what is obtained as output. |
| Heat Retention | Oil-filled radiators retain heat for longer. |
| Smart Functionality | Some heaters have smart functionality, allowing users to control them via apps or voice assistants. |
| Advanced Features | Advanced features include air purification and adaptive heating. |
| Installation Cost | Installation costs are minimal as electric radiators do not require connection to pipework and can be plugged into standard sockets. |
| Energy Saving Features | Features like open window detection can help reduce wasted energy by putting the radiator in standby mode when a drop in temperature is detected. |
| Ease of Use | Some radiators offer smart heating controls, remote locking of controls, and zone control for ease of use and energy savings. |
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What You'll Learn
Oil-filled radiators retain heat for longer
Electric heaters are more efficient than gas heaters as they convert all the energy drawn from the mains into usable heat. However, electricity costs more than gas in the UK, so it can be more expensive to produce the same level of heat with an electric heater. Nevertheless, using an electric heater in one room can be more cost-effective than turning on central heating throughout the home.
Oil-filled radiators are a common form of convection heater used in domestic heating. They are electrically heated and work by using an electrical heating element to heat the reservoir of thermal oil inside the unit. The heating element is a coil of metal-protected wire inserted into the base of the radiator. When the electric current is supplied, the electrons bump together and move through the wire, creating friction and heat. The oil is heated, and the warmth is transferred to the radiator body and then the room by air convection.
Oil-filled radiators take longer to heat up than wire element heaters, but they have good thermal retaining capacity, allowing the inside fluid to cool slowly and keep the room warm for longer. This makes them more energy-efficient and cheaper to run. They are also safer than other heaters as they operate at lower temperatures and have thermostats, which prevent the room from overheating.
The De'Longhi TRD40615T is a sturdy oil-filled radiator that stays cool to the touch on the outside. It is silent and able to oscillate, spreading heat quickly and evenly around the room. It can keep a room between 80 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit for four hours without using any electricity.
Oil-filled radiators are best suited for medium to large rooms that are used regularly, such as bedrooms and living rooms. They are ideal for maintaining a consistent temperature over long periods rather than providing instant heat.
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Electric heaters are more economical in single rooms
Electric heaters are a great way to heat individual rooms in your home. They are a more economical option for single rooms as they allow you to avoid turning on the central heating for your entire house, which can waste energy by heating unoccupied rooms. Electric heaters can be more cost-effective than gas central heating if your gas would be heating more than four times the space of the single room.
There are several types of electric heaters available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Halogen heaters are one of the most inexpensive types, providing instant heat at close quarters, but they are less suitable for heating larger spaces. Convection heaters, on the other hand, are ideal for warming small to medium-sized rooms with even heat distribution. They take longer to heat up a room compared to halogen heaters, but they will heat the whole room evenly. Oil-filled radiators are another popular option, known for their ability to retain heat for longer periods, even after being turned off. This makes them a good choice for maintaining a consistent temperature in a room without constantly running, which can help save energy.
When choosing an electric heater, it's important to consider factors such as the size of the room, insulation, and your personal preferences for features like smart functionality or adjustable thermostats. Some models with lower wattage, simple functionality, and efficient design tend to have lower running costs. Additionally, newer models with built-in digital thermostats or smart controls can offer better efficiency than older analog systems, especially when zoned by room.
It's worth noting that while electric heaters can be a cost-effective option for single rooms, they may not always be the most environmentally friendly choice. In some cases, upgrading to a more energy-efficient electric heating system can reduce your home's carbon footprint. Heat pumps, for example, typically deliver the best long-term value in terms of both comfort and energy savings.
In summary, electric heaters can be more economical in single rooms as they allow you to heat only the occupied spaces, avoiding the waste of energy associated with central heating. By choosing the right type of electric heater for your needs and considering energy-efficient features, you can further optimise your energy usage and costs.
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Infrared heaters heat people, radiators heat the air
Electric heaters come in various forms, including compact, fan-powered models, oil-filled radiators, and wall-mounted panels. Some heaters have smart functionality, allowing for app-assisted control and features like air purification. While electricity is generally more expensive than gas, certain electric heaters can be more cost-effective than central heating, especially when used in a single room.
Infrared heaters, also known as heat lamps, are a type of electric heater that uses infrared radiation to heat objects and people directly, similar to how we experience heat from the sun. These heaters don't warm the air like traditional radiators, but they are considered more energy-efficient and cheaper to run. Infrared panels can be placed on walls, ceilings, or floors, and they require a clear space to function effectively without obstructions. While they use electricity, which is currently more expensive, their efficiency can lower energy bills. However, they cannot replace boilers as they typically don't heat water.
Oil-filled radiators are another popular option. They are known for their silent operation but are slower to heat up compared to other heaters. These radiators retain heat for longer, even after being turned off, making them energy-efficient. The De'Longhi TRD40615T is a highly regarded model in this category, praised for its sturdiness and cool exterior.
Ceramic heaters are also worth considering. The Lasko 754200 Ceramic Heater is a top choice for its affordability, compact size, and quick heating capability. However, it is better suited for small spaces rather than large rooms.
In summary, when considering the most economical electric radiators, infrared heaters stand out for their ability to heat people directly, their energy efficiency, and their versatility in placement. Oil-filled radiators and ceramic heaters are also energy-efficient due to their heat retention and quick heating capabilities, respectively, but they have different strengths and weaknesses. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs, the size of the space, and your preference for direct or indirect heating.
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Electric heaters are more efficient than gas in the UK
Electric heaters are 100% efficient at the point of use, meaning that all the electricity they use is converted into heat. This makes them more efficient than gas heaters, which waste about 10% of the energy in their fuel. Some additional heat may also be lost from the pipework in gas heating systems.
Electric heaters are generally safer than gas heaters as they do not burn fuel to generate heat, eliminating the risk of carbon monoxide emissions and explosions. They are also more environmentally friendly, as they do not emit carbon dioxide or other pollutants. Electric heating systems are also easier and cheaper to install compared to gas central heating, as they do not require flues or pipework. Electric heaters are highly portable, and ideal for small spaces or occasional use.
However, electricity costs per unit (kWh) tend to be higher than natural gas, so gas heaters are usually cheaper to operate and are more cost-effective for heating large spaces or homes during extended cold periods. Electric heaters are also more expensive to run for heating larger areas or extended periods, so gas heaters are preferred for long-term cost savings.
Some of the most economical electric radiators include the De'Longhi TRD40615T, an oil-filled radiator that stays hot even when turned off, and the Lasko 754200 Ceramic Heater, a compact, lightweight, and affordable option.
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Smart heating controls save energy and simplify programming
Electric heaters are 100% energy efficient, but electricity costs more than gas in the UK. Therefore, using an electric heater in one room could be more cost-effective than turning on the central heating throughout the home.
Smart heating controls can help to manage the price of your energy. They can be integrated with your existing heating system by installing a smart thermostat, which allows you to control and monitor your heating remotely, create schedules, and optimise energy usage. For example, you can set a minimum temperature for use during the day and while you're away to prevent condensation build-up, and then increase the temperature at night.
Smart heating controls can also adapt to your routine, learning your preferences over time and optimising heating patterns to minimise energy consumption. They can also pull in weather forecast data to adjust for temperature and sunshine, reducing energy use and preventing overheating.
OpenTherm is an upgrade that allows the controller to specify how much heat is needed, reducing the water flow temperature as the building nears its desired set point. This makes it less likely that the system will overshoot and make the building too warm, saving energy.
Some sources claim that smart heating controls do not save energy compared to standard thermostats and may increase energy demand. However, the evidence for this is of low quality, and there is moderate-quality evidence that zonal controllers can save energy compared to whole-house controllers.
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Frequently asked questions
Electric radiators are a popular choice for UK consumers. They are a convenient form of domestic heating that can be wall-mounted, free-standing, or on castors. They are easy to install, requiring no plumbing work, and can simply be plugged into a 13-amp socket or fused into the wall.
Electric radiators are 100% efficient, converting all the energy drawn into heat. However, some sources claim that electric radiators are less efficient than heat pumps, which have upwards of 300% efficiency compared to 85% for an A-rated gas boiler. Electric radiators are also less efficient than gas central heating systems.
The efficiency of electric radiators depends on the nature of the room. Good insulation is key to optimising energy efficiency. Electric heaters are best suited for smaller rooms, such as bathrooms and garages, where they can provide a quick, intense burst of heating. More advanced electric heaters can also heat larger spaces effectively.
Fischer Future Heat radiators are the only efficient radiators on the market, with a 40mm chamotte clay-core that provides effective warmth. Rointe radiators are also a good choice, as they have smart heating controls and features that save energy and make programming your heating simple.
Electric radiators have no primary carbon footprint and can help the UK achieve net-zero carbon. They are compatible with renewable energy sources such as solar PV, making them a sustainable and eco-friendly choice. However, electricity generation in the UK still relies on fossil fuels, so switching to electric radiators may not be the best environmental choice.
