Most Energy Efficient Space Heaters: Heat Without Added Cost

The most energy-efficient space heaters include oil-filled radiators, ceramic heaters, infrared heaters, and micathermic heaters. Oil-filled radiators retain heat well and provide consistent warmth. Ceramic heaters heat up quickly and distribute warmth effectively with a fan. Infrared heaters directly heat objects and people, reducing heat loss. Micathermic heaters offer a combination of radiant and convection heat without a fan. For optimal efficiency, consider heaters with programmable thermostats and improve room insulation to retain heat.

Infrared heaters are the most energy-efficient space heaters, using the least electricity. They directly heat objects and people rather than the air, making them highly efficient. Other efficient options include oil-filled heaters, which retain heat well, and halogen heaters, which have a lower power output and are cheaper to run.

Halogen heaters are among the cheapest electric heaters to run due to their low power output and efficiency in providing immediate warmth. They typically operate at around 1200W, making them cost-effective for short-term use. Infrared heaters are also very efficient, using minimal electricity to generate significant heat. Other efficient options include oil-filled heaters, which retain heat well, and ceramic heaters.

The cost to run a 1500-watt heater for 24 hours in the UK varies depending on the electricity rate. On average, at a rate of £0.22 per kWh, it would cost approximately £7.92 for a full 24-hour period. This is calculated by multiplying the power consumption (1.5 kW) by the number of hours (24) and then by the cost per kWh (£0.22): 1.5 kW x 24 hours x £0.22/kWh = £7.92. If your provider has tiered rates or time-of-use pricing, the cost may differ based on the specific rate schedule.

For heating a bedroom all night, oil-filled or micathermic heaters are the most cost-effective options due to their efficiency in maintaining steady warmth over extended periods. Oil-filled heaters retain heat well, while micathermic heaters combine convection and radiant heating for quick and sustained warmth. Pairing a heater with an electric blanket can further reduce power consumption by allowing the heater to run at a lower setting. Using a timer or smart plug to control the heater's operation ensures minimal energy use. This approach balances efficiency and cost, making it suitable for overnight heating.

If you have poor circulation and need to keep warm at night while others in the house don't, consider an oil-filled or micathermic heater for your bedroom. These heaters are efficient and maintain steady warmth. Pairing the heater with an electric blanket can further reduce costs, allowing the heater to run on a lower setting. Use a timer or smart plug to minimize energy use. This approach balances efficiency and cost, making it ideal for overnight heating without the need to heat the entire house.

For efficiently heating a large space economically, an electric storage heater is often recommended. These heaters are designed to store warmth during off-peak hours and release it when needed, helping to reduce electricity costs. Another effective and economical option is an oil-filled radiator, which provides steady, consistent heat and is generally safe for use around children and pets. Additionally, infrared heaters are noted for their efficiency in directly warming objects and people rather than the air, resulting in lower electricity usage overall. For maximum savings, consider a combination of space heaters and targeted solutions like heated mattress pads or electric blankets, which can keep individuals warm without the need to heat an entire room.

For safely heating your baby's room with a space heater, prioritize placing it on the floor, away from any flammable materials like bedding or curtains, and ensure there's a clear space of at least three feet around it. Opt for a heater with lower wattage, ideally under 1500 watts, and always plug it directly into a wall outlet to avoid overheating risks from extension cords or power strips. Consider using an oil-filled radiator heater for its cooler external surfaces, reducing the risk of burns if touched accidentally. Regularly inspect the heater and its components for signs of overheating, especially after extended use, and ensure the room maintains adequate ventilation by keeping the door slightly ajar if closed to maintain warmth. Lastly, choose a heater that meets safety standards with features like automatic shut-off in case of tipping, providing added peace of mind in your baby's room.

Electric space heaters are highly efficient because they convert nearly all the electrical energy they consume into heat energy, achieving close to 100% efficiency in this conversion process. However, it's important to note that according to the laws of thermodynamics, nothing can be 100% efficient in an absolute sense. While space heaters excel at converting electricity into heat, factors such as insulation, airflow, and heater placement influence how effectively this heat warms a space. Therefore, while they are efficient at generating heat, their overall effectiveness in heating a room optimally varies based on these additional environmental factors.