As the colder months roll in, finding an efficient way to keep your home warm without skyrocketing heating bills becomes a priority. A portable electric heater offers a flexible, cost-effective solution that you can move from room to room as needed. But with so many options on the market, which one should you choose?

The two main contenders for portable electric heaters are oil-filled radiators and convector heaters. Each type has its benefits, so let’s take a closer look at how they work to help you decide which one suits your needs best.

Oil-filled radiators – How do they work?

Oil-filled radiators are known for their excellent heat retention. Inside the unit, a coil heats the oil, which then circulates and warms the air. The great thing about oil-filled radiators is that they continue to emit heat even after they’ve been switched off, thanks to the oil’s ability to store and release heat slowly. This means the room stays warm for longer without the need for continuous power.

Are Oil-Filled Radiators Economical to run?

The rising cost of heating has prompted many people to seek energy-efficient alternatives, and oil-filled radiators are a great choice for saving on electricity bills. Their key advantage lies in their heat retention. Once the radiator is warm, it continues to release heat without using extra power. This makes oil-filled radiators extremely energy-efficient, especially for longer periods of heating, making them a smart choice if you want to reduce your heating costs during the colder months.

Convector heaters – How do they work?

Convector heaters work by heating the air inside the unit, which then rises and circulates throughout  the room, quickly distributing warmth. These heaters often come with a built-in fan to help speed up the circulation of warm air, making them much faster at warming up a space compared to oil-filled radiators.

Are convector heaters Economical to run?

Convector heaters are fast-acting, making them perfect for short bursts of heat. However, the cost-effectiveness of running a convector heater depends on its features. Many modern convector heaters come with adjustable thermostats and timers, allowing you to control the amount of heat produced and the energy used. This level of control is essential for managing energy bills, as you can set the heater to operate only when needed.

Which Heater Is More Effective?

Both oil-filled radiators and convector heaters are effective, but their efficiency depends on how you plan to use them.

  • For quick heat: If you need to heat a room rapidly, a convector heater is your best option. Its ability to warm a space in a short time makes it ideal for quick bursts of heat, but they may need to stay on longer to keep the space warm compared to oil-filled radiators.

  • For longer-lasting warmth: If you need sustained warmth over a longer period, an oil-filled radiator may be more cost-effective in the long run. Thanks to its heat retention properties, it continues to keep the room warm even after switching off, which means less energy is needed overall.

For personalised advice on the best heater for your home, visit your local Expert Hardware store. Our team is on hand to guide you towards the perfect heater to suit your needs, helping you stay warm and cosy this winter without overspending on your energy bills.

 

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