Electric heaters are a popular and convenient choice when it comes to heating your home or office. However, with a wide range of electric heaters available in the market, it can be challenging to choose the right one.
Understanding the different types of electric heaters and their unique features is essential in making an informed decision. By knowing the different types of electric heaters, you can select the best option that suits your specific heating needs, saves energy and keeps you comfortable during the colder months.
This article aims to give you an overview of the most common types of electric heaters available in the Australian market, their advantages, and their drawbacks to help you make an informed decision.
key Takeaway
- Understanding the different types of electric heaters is crucial in making an informed decision.
- Consider heating needs, energy efficiency, and budget when choosing an electric heater.
- Each type of electric heater has its specific benefits and drawbacks.
- The most common types of electric heaters include convection, radiant, column, fan, panel, oil-filled radiator, baseboard, mica, and ceramic heaters.
- By weighing the pros and cons of each type of electric heater, you can choose the best option that suits your requirements.
- With the information in this article, you can confidently navigate the market and find the perfect electric heater for your home or office.
There are several types of electric heaters available in the market, including:
Convection Heaters
These heaters warm the air around them, circulating and warming the room. Also known as Convector heaters.
One of the major benefits of convector heaters is their rapid warming capabilities, often with nearly silent operation. While some models come equipped with a fan to speed up the heating process, it’s important to note that the fan may also increase the noise level.
Convection heaters are ideal for heating entire rooms rather than just specific areas, making them an excellent choice for shared spaces such as living rooms.
Best Convection Heaters Australia
- 2000W MAX POWER – Ideal for spot heating as it provides instant warmth. Fast and uniform warmth for room sizes up to 60m3
- ADJUSTABLE ROOM THERMOSTAT – To select and maintain the desired temperature with three heat settings for added versatility
- WALL MOUNTABLE – In addition to traditional free standing use, the HCM2030 heater can be installed as fixed heating appliance
- SAFETY FEATURES – Overheating safety thermal cut-off, Automatic tilt switch, Anti-frost function, Double insulation
- EASY MAINTENANCE
- Fast and uniform warmth, recommended for room sizes up to 70m3
- Wall mountable enabling this appliance to be fixed to the wall, thanks to the wall bracket kit included in the packaging
- Boost heating thanks to the lateral fan system
- Stay safe with the Sicura System, which automatically switches off the unit if it tips over
- Easily set the desired temperature, power settings and timer with the adjustable knobs
- Parker Ph.D., Prof Philip M. (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 513 Pages – 01/09/2023 (Publication Date) – ICON Group International, Inc. (Publisher)
Radiant Heaters
These heaters use infrared technology to directly warm objects and people in a room without heating the air around them.
One of the key advantages of radiant heaters is their ease of setup and rapid heat-up times, making them a quick and easy solution for cold rooms.
However, it is important to note that radiant heaters feature an exposed heating element, which may pose a safety risk for homes with young children.
Best Radiant Heaters In Australia
- Slim-line design with a modern black anodised aluminium finish; Comfortable radiant warmth with non-glowing element; Anti-corrosive, black anodised aluminium body and element;
- Junction box for high temperature resistance and more protected circuits; Efficient and cost-effective heating; Easy-to-install;
- Adjustable wall and ceiling swivel brackets; Silent and maintenance-free operation; Splash resistant allowing cleaning with a hose;
- Rapid heat up time; Wide heating range to warm up any room; 1 year warranty;
- Ideal for bedrooms, office stalls and personal spaces
- Better heating and requires low maintenance
- Features an adjustable thermostat and an overheat protection
- Features a safety tilt switch and an integrated carry handle
- Quick heated and wide coverage
Column Heaters
Column heaters resemble standard radiators in both appearance and function. They are a cost-effective option with low noise levels and are suitable for extended periods of use.
Although column heaters may be slower to warm up than other heater types, they are excellent at retaining heat. As a result, you can turn them off before bed and still enjoy warmth throughout the night.
Column heaters are available in both oil-filled and oil-free variations.
Best Column Heaters Australia
- Portable heater, with an exclusive Additional Fan to boost heat release and uniformly distribute warmth – Fins incorporate Thermal Slots to increase heat distribution
- Program daily working time in 15-minute increments and save energy with 24H Timer, Rated voltage/Frequency (V~Hz): 230/240~50
- Safety Features include: Low Surface temperature cooler to touch; Safety Tilt Switch turns off if unit tips over; overheating safety Thermal Cut-off; Anti-frost Function activates below 5ºC; Rounded Edges, no sharp corners; Cord Storage
- Easy to move thanks to pre-assembled Snap Lock Castors and Cool Touch Handle allow you to easily carry the unit from a room to another
- 2400 WATTS 11 FIN OIL COLUMN HEATER – Warm your space up during cold days with the help of our 11 Fin Oil Column Heater. Complete with a carry handle and castors, this column heater can be easily moved from room to room. Ideal for both home and office space.
- ADJUSTABLE THERMOSTAT – It features an adjustable thermostat to choose from three heat settings, achieving and maintaining the ideal room temperature is simple. A high-quality, high-performance heating device that quickly and efficiently heats the room. Just set and enjoy clean and healthful air.
- “CONVECTION + RADIANT HEATING TECHNOLOGY- Equipped with superior quality material, our handy heaters combine convection + radiant heating, which eliminates oxygen and humidity interference. There is no risk of static, no dry skin and no dry eyes compared to traditional heaters. “
- ENERGY EFFICIENT, SILENT OPERATION – Offering fast heating system and versatile use, these oil column heaters run on silent operation so all occupants can enjoy a calm, quiet environment. This 2400-watt oil column heater has 11 fins and automatically clicks on and off to sustain the warmth of the room.
- WITH CASTOR WHEELS, PERFECT FOR HOME & OFFICE – Equipped with convenient cord storage on the front and free-standing with the included castor wheels, this oil column heater is easy to move around. Complete with a tip-over switch, over-heat protection and a power indicator light, the 11-Fin oil column heater is the perfect choice for homes, office and apartments.
- Long-lasting and uniform warmth thanks to the long thermal inertia of the oil inside the unit – recommended for rooms up to 45m3
- Silent heating spread throughout your room
- Faster heating thanks to XXL Extra Large Radiant Surface with 7 fins
- Optimise energy consumption thanks to Eco Plus Function – Manage desired temperature, settings and timer with the easy to use Digital Control Panel AND 24H Timer
Fan Heaters
These heaters use a fan to circulate warm air around the room, providing a fast, affordable, and effective heating solution. While they may not offer the same heating power level as other options, they are well-suited for hassle-free spot heating.
It’s important to note that some models may generate operating noise and potentially dry out your skin if used in proximity.
For a more even spread of heat throughout a room, consider opting for a model with an oscillating function ( rotates from side to side), which can help distribute heat more evenly.
Best Fan Heaters Australia
- Easy to transport from room to room, or from home to office
- Heller 2000W Upright Fan Heater – White
Panel Heaters
Panel heaters are similar to convection heaters. One of the primary benefits of panel heaters is their space-saving design. Their low profile allows for wall mounting, keeping floors and walkways clear.
While most panel heaters rely solely on convection heating, some models incorporate convection and radiant heating for more efficient and thorough performance.
Choosing a panel heater with a built-in thermostat enables you to maintain a consistent temperature in the room with minimal effort, making it a convenient “set it and forget it” solution.
Best Panel Heaters Australia
- SMART ELECTRIC HEATER: WI-FI ENABLED DESIGN which makes it a smart heater and allows you to CONTROL MULTIPLE HEATER(S) from your APP on smartphone or tablet, making it easy to keep your home warm and comfortable by the time you reach from office/work.
- PORTABLE ELECTRIC SPACE HEATER: The Bonaire Electric Portable Panel Heater is easy to operate and clean. You can SET TIMERS, custom temperature settings, and access power settings all with the touch of a button. With TIP-OVER & OVERHEAT PROTECTION with IP24 RATING AND CHILD LOCK function makes a perfect partner for your home.
- DIGITAL TOUCHSCREEN DISPLAY: This Bonaire electric panel heater features a digital touch screen display that allows you to easily view the temperature settings and other settings. It also has ADJUSTABLE THERMOSTAT options for added convenience.
- COMFORT & ANTI FROST MODES: The Bonaire Electric Panel Heater has COMFORT MODE, this allows you to set your desired temperature, and the heater will maintain that temperature automatically. ANTI-FROST MODE protects your home from freezing by automatically turning on the heater when the temperature drops below a certain level.
- SAFE TO USE: This Bonaire electric room heater is built with safety in mind. You can use it as a FREE STANDING OR WALL MOUNT HEATER as per your convenience. It includes an overheat protection feature that automatically shuts off the unit when it reaches a certain temperature level, making it safe portable heater and reliable to use.
- CONVECTION EFFECT – The appliance is ideal for spot heating in medium size rooms, providing a gentle, background warmth at a constant temperature. Fast and uniform warmth for rooms up to 65m³ *Contact your energy provider to estimate your cost
- CERAMIC TECHNOLOGY – Ceramic heating balances power and energy efficiency through its self-regulating capability. Depending on the temperature in the room, it adjusts its output accordingly
- SILENT – Quietly boost the heating with the quiet fan system
- EASE OF USE – COntrol Set temperature, power settings and timer with the digital control panel
- SAFETY SYSTEM – Electronic Tip over switch system that turns off the appliance, in case it fell down accidentally, maintaining the previous settings
- IDEAL COMFORT – This portable heater offers direct heat and an oscillating fan: perfect as a personal heater to reach your desired room temperature
- CERAMIC TECHNOLOGY – Self-regulatespower and energy to ensure optimum efficiency with motorized oscillation for wide heat distribution
- DIGITAL CONTROLS – Digital control panel for easy selection of the thermostat, timer settings and to choose between within the two available power levels
- SILENT OPERATION – Quietly distributes heat throughout the room with Silent System technology
- SAFETY AUTO SHUT OFF – Automatically shuts off if tipped over. Easy to move from room to room thanks to the carry handle
Oil-Filled Radiator Heaters
These heaters use oil as a heat-retention medium to keep the room warm even after turning off the heating element.
Oil-filled radiators are electric heaters containing oil within the unit, which is then heated to provide warmth. An electric element heats the oil and then circulates throughout the unit, gradually emitting heat into the surrounding environment.
Oil-filled radiators are known for providing consistent and comfortable heat over a long period, making them ideal for extended use in rooms such as bedrooms or living rooms. They are also typically quiet and energy efficient, making them a popular choice for households looking to reduce their energy bills.
Some types of convection heaters and column heaters use oil to heat. Oil-filled radiators fall under the category of convection heaters.
However, it’s important to note that not all convection or column heaters use oil as a heating mechanism. Oil-free convection and column heaters that use alternative methods to generate heat, such as ceramic heating elements or PTC (positive temperature coefficient) technology, are also available. These heaters are typically lighter and faster to heat up than oil-filled models.
Best Oil-Filled Radiator Heaters
- All inclusive Oil-Filled Radiator Heater Dust cover is made of Polyester, Moisture proof, dustproof .Durable and light material, easy to wash and can be used in the long time.
- Applicable size: Small :length is 40cm-60cm (15.75inch-23.62inch) Thickness is 10cm-15cm(4inch-6inch) height is 55cm-60cm(21.65-23.62 inch).Larger : length is 60cm-80cm（23.62inch-31.5 inch）Thickness is 10cm-15cm(4inch-6inch) height is 55cm-62cm (21.65inch-24.41inch) Measured size does not include base casters.
- Polyester stretch fabric : Fully stretchable stretch fabric, Any oil-immersed heater can be applied, as long as it is within the size range , compatible with most brand models. Different printing designs bring different decorative effects to your home
- Application:Oil-Filled Radiator Heater protection dust cover net helps protect the household heater from dust, dirt, pollen, pet hair, smoke and odors; Perfect suit for homes, office, hotels, Internet cafe ,restaurants etc. The Heater Dust Cover can also be used as Christmas, Thanksgiving, Halloween, Mother’s Day, Valentine’s Day, etc.a gift for mother, wife ,girlfriend ,friends, business partners .Is a very practical gift.
- Easy to Clean: Simply hose with water and the dirt will disappear soon.It can also be cleaned in the washing machine with water and dry in the sun.
- 2400 WATTS 11 FIN OIL COLUMN HEATER – Warm your space up during cold days with the help of our 11 Fin Oil Column Heater. Complete with a carry handle and castors, this column heater can be easily moved from room to room. Ideal for both home and office space.
- ADJUSTABLE THERMOSTAT – It features an adjustable thermostat to choose from three heat settings, achieving and maintaining the ideal room temperature is simple. A high-quality, high-performance heating device that quickly and efficiently heats the room. Just set and enjoy clean and healthful air.
- “CONVECTION + RADIANT HEATING TECHNOLOGY- Equipped with superior quality material, our handy heaters combine convection + radiant heating, which eliminates oxygen and humidity interference. There is no risk of static, no dry skin and no dry eyes compared to traditional heaters. “
- ENERGY EFFICIENT, SILENT OPERATION – Offering fast heating system and versatile use, these oil column heaters run on silent operation so all occupants can enjoy a calm, quiet environment. This 2400-watt oil column heater has 11 fins and automatically clicks on and off to sustain the warmth of the room.
- WITH CASTOR WHEELS, PERFECT FOR HOME & OFFICE – Equipped with convenient cord storage on the front and free-standing with the included castor wheels, this oil column heater is easy to move around. Complete with a tip-over switch, over-heat protection and a power indicator light, the 11-Fin oil column heater is the perfect choice for homes, office and apartments.
- All inclusive Oil-Filled Radiator Heater Dust cover is made of Polyester, Moisture proof, dustproof.Durable and light material, easy to wash and can be used in the long time.
- Applicable size: Small :length is 40cm-60cm (15.75inch-23.62inch) Thickness is 10cm-15cm(4inch-6inch) height is 55cm-60cm(21.65-23.62 inch).Larger : length is 61cm-90cm（24.02inch-35.43 inch）Thickness is 10cm-15cm(4inch-6inch) height is 61cm-70cm (24.02inch-27.56inch) Measured size does not include base casters.
- Polyester stretch fabric : Fully stretchable stretch fabric, Any oil-immersed heater can be applied, as long as it is within the size range , compatible with most brand models. Different printing designs bring different decorative effects to your home
- Application:Oil-Filled Radiator Heater protection dust cover net helps protect the household heater from dust, dirt etc Perfect suit for homes, office, hotels, Internet cafe ,restaurants etc. The Heater Dust Cover can also be used as Christmas, Thanksgiving, Halloween, Mother’s Day, Valentine’s Day, etc.a gift for mother, wife ,girlfriend ,friends, business partners .Is a very practical gift.
- Easy to Clean: Simply hose with water and the dirt will disappear soon.It can also be cleaned in the washing machine with water and dry in the sun.
Baseboard Heaters
Baseboard heaters are electric heating systems installed along a room’s baseboard, typically near exterior walls or windows. They work by using convection to circulate warm air throughout the space.
The heating element in a baseboard heater is usually made of metal fins or pipes, which are heated by electricity. As the air around the heater is warmed, it rises, creating a natural convection current that circulates warm air throughout the room.
A thermostat typically controls baseboard heaters, allowing users to set a desired temperature and adjust the heat output accordingly. They are often used as a primary or supplemental heating source in homes and buildings, particularly in areas with cold winters.
One advantage of baseboard heaters is that they don’t require ductwork or ventilation systems, making them a relatively simple and cost-effective installation option. However, it’s important to ensure they are properly sized for the room they will be installed in to ensure efficient and effective heating.
Best Baseboard Heaters Australia
- Requires A Thermostat
- 25 Gauge Steel
- Separate programming for the weekdays and weekends; up to 4 program periods per day
- Saves energy with personalized temperature control
- 32″ Baseboard Heater. 240 Volts/500 Watts @2.1 amps
Ceramic Heaters
Ceramic heaters are a popular option for homes seeking efficient, cost-effective heating. Unlike traditional heating systems, ceramic heaters use ceramic plates to generate and disperse heat. Ceramics is an excellent electrical insulator and also has excellent heat-resistant properties. This means that the heater can reach higher temperatures than other types safely.
One of the advantages of ceramic heaters is their compact size, which makes them easy to move and position in various rooms. They are also typically lightweight and quiet, making them a popular choice for bedrooms, offices, and other areas where noise can distract.
Ceramic heaters come in various styles and designs, including freestanding and portable models and those that can be mounted on walls or ceilings. Some models may also have additional features such as thermostats, timers, and adjustable heat settings.
Overall, ceramic heaters offer many households a reliable and cost-effective heating solution.
This article aims to give you an overview of the most common types of electric heaters available in the Australian market, their advantages, and their drawbacks to help you make an informed decision.
Best Ceramic Heaters Australia
- 【Safe and Reliable】:The portable heater shell is made of high-quality flame-retardant material, high temperature resistant air outlet metal mesh design, no deformation, with safe switch. Portable mini heater provides tip-over and overheating automatic power-off protection, as well as enhanced safety plugs, to ensure safety in all directions, and the room heater avoids any danger, for families with young children or pets.
- 【2 Second Fast Heating】:Small heater used the advanced PTC creaming heating technology, heating up in 2s, more efficiently and fast with up to 1200W working power, letting you feel fast, balmy heat straight away. The space heater is very Ideal for using in small rooms and it provides instant heating, warm hands, warm feet, warm the whole body.
- IDEAL COMFORT – This portable heater with its direct heat is perfect as a personal heater to reach your desired room temperature
- CERAMIC TECHNOLOGY – Self-regulates to ensure optimum efficiency with motorized oscillation for wide heat distribution
- Quick Heating
- Wide Angle Automatic Swing
Factors to consider when buying an electric heater for your home
| Factors to Consider | Features to Check |
|---|---|
| Size of the Room | Size of the room where the heater will be used |
| Energy Efficiency | Heater’s energy efficiency rating, heaters using less energy but producing same heat |
| Safety Features | Tip-over protection, overheat protection, cool-touch exterior |
| Noise Level | Noise output, especially for quiet spaces like bedroom or office |
| Thermostat and Timer | Presence and functionality of thermostat and timer for better heating control and energy saving |
| Heating Technology | Type of heating technology used: fan heaters, oil-filled heaters, infrared heaters, etc. |
| Cost | Initial cost of the heater and ongoing operation costs |
| Portability | Size, weight, presence of handles or wheels for easy movement |
| Installation | Whether it is plug-and-play or requires professional installation |
| Warranty and Customer Support | Manufacturer’s warranty terms and availability of customer support |
Conclusion
Electric heaters provide a convenient and efficient solution for heating homes and offices. However, choosing the right one can be challenging with the wide range of electric heaters available in the market.
It is essential to understand the different types of electric heaters and their unique features, advantages, and disadvantages to make an informed decision.
Whether you opt for a convection heater, radiant heater, column heater, fan heater, panel heater, oil-filled radiator heater, baseboard heater, or ceramic heater, each has its specific benefits and drawbacks. You can select the best electric heater that suits your requirements by considering your specific heating needs, energy efficiency, and budget.
With the information in this article, you are now well-equipped to make an informed decision and find the perfect electric heater for your home or office.
Maddie is a home appliance specialist, blogger in Australia. She enjoys researching, testing and writing about home appliances , improvements hacks and tips.
