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Blog: STAY WARM IN WINTER WITH THE PERFECT ELECTRIC HEATER

NHS Electric Heater Blog
3 Oct 2023

There is nothing worse than feeling so cold at home that neither a dressing gown nor duvet can provide relief. Or trying to work but finding you cannot concentrate on anything apart from how chilly it is. 

Unlike traditional solutions, high-quality electric heaters will instantly soothe your suffering with rapid and radiant heat. Electrically powered models eliminate the worry of running out of gas. Plus, as they use no oxygen, there is no need to ensure ventilation and airflow. So, you can sit back and stay snug, warm and worry-free all winter. 

It is no secret that electric heaters are not the cheapest to run. So, it is crucial to choose the most suitable model to efficiently meet your needs. This way, you will naturally save energy and expense. 

ARE ELECTRIC HEATERS WORTH IT? 

Despite initial costs, there are many factors that make electric heaters an attractive alternative to standard oil-fired. For example, electric heaters produce fume-free heat with no ash, dust, or flue fallout. 

Compared to traditional space warmers, electric heaters are resilient and reliable. With minimal maintenance needs, electrically powered heaters avoid costly repair fees that traditional heaters can rack up yearly. 

Some appliances are fitted with remote thermometers so you can take control of your comfort. Portable models are conveniently designed for you to simply plug in and enjoy instant heat wherever and whenever you need it.  

HOW ENERGY-EFFICIENT ARE ELECTRIC HEATERS? 

Electric heaters are market-leading, highly efficient space warming solutions. Unlike traditional heaters such as gas or oil-fired, electric heaters profitably convert almost all energy they consume into heat. This guarantees minimal energy waste, lowering energy bills and reducing environmental effects. Various electric heaters are manufactured with the latest technology to enhance energy efficiency. 

EFFECTIVE SPOT HEAT 

For example, Infrared heaters such as the range of Sealey Portable Halogen Heatersare designed to provide localised heat. These appliances are intended to spot heat people and objects directly surrounding the heater, rather than warming the air. This ensures 100% heat and energy efficiency. 

ENERGY IS FULLY TRANSFERRED TO HEAT 

Using the latest technology, Quartz Halogen lamps produce minimal glow and glare. This is not only significantly safer to use but ensures that all generated energy is transferred to heat; not wasted on light. This optimises the potency of the heating operation, maximising energy and economic efficiency. 

ENVIRONMENTALLY EFFICIENT 

Modern electric heaters are also eco-friendly, as the reduction of gas production and burning is healthier for the environment. Likewise, electrically heated air is healthier to inhale. Additionally, using solar panels or a green tariff guarantees climate-conscious heating. Your chattering teeth will thank you and so will the environment! 

TYPES OF ELECTRIC HEATERS 

Get to know the three main types: 

Convector 

Heat is achieved by air drawn into the unit and heated by an electric element, then warm air is naturally dispersed into the surrounding atmosphere. Convector heaters operate quietly and discreetly, as they rely on circulating air to carry heat around a space and are not forced by fans. This means they are less likely to kick up polluting particles into the air. Some models are accompanied by an integrated thermostat to allow you to set the ideal temperature and control your climate. 

Fan 

Fan heaters are like convector heaters in their method of producing heat, however the effects are instantly achieved as the fan forcefully distributes warm air out into the space. Whilst fan heaters are better at distributing heat instead of relying on natural convection, they can be quite loud when running. Fan models offer versatility, where convector heaters do not. For example,many fan heaters feature multiple additional benefits, such as oscillation, air conditioning and dehumidification. 

Radiant 

Using infrared radiation from halogen bulbs, these heaters are designed to spot heat people and objects in the direct path of the device. Without the air suction and fan elements of the other types, infrared heaters are energy-efficient, minimal maintenance and discreet devices that convert all consumed energy into heat. 

TIPS FOR CHOOSING THE RIGHT ELECTRIC HEATER: 

There are dependent variables to consider as we discuss the most energy-efficient electric heatersThese factors will contribute to your decision-making process for the perfect heater for you. 

KNOW YOUR ROOM SIZE  

Consider the size of the space you want to heat. Larger rooms require more power or even multiple appliances. The quality of insulation in the selected room will also determine the amount of energy required to provide sufficient heating. 

CONSIDER THE PURPOSE 

The type of electric heater influences the effect you will receive. If noise levels are important to you, a convector model will quietly work away in the background. If you want an instant and radiant glow to stretch out in front of, infrared heaters are a perfect fit for personal comfort. Or if there are many people that need warming up, fan heaters are designed to circulate heat around rooms of any size. 

MATCH POWER SUPPLY 

It is important to ensure that your power supply can sufficiently meet the demands of the electric heater you are looking to buy. For instance, a single-phase power supply is suitable for most homes and can handle up to 3kW of electricity, anything above this requires a three-phase power supply which is intended only for industrial applications. By matching a model to the capacity of your power supply, you will ensure zero waste of energy and expense. 

SAFETY FEATURES 

If you intend to operate an electric heater in a busy space such as a school or hall, opt for one with integrated safety measures. Many models are made with anti-tilt technology, lockable wheels, thermostats and timers to prevent overheating. These protective features will not only optimise functionality but will instil peace of mind. 

TOP 5 BEST ELECTRIC HEATERS 

Here is where we will break down the top five most popular electric heating models, suggesting the most suitable application and environment for each example. 

The most popular portable electric option is the Broughton RG308. This infrared heater is made of carbon fibre components and provides ultimate energy efficiency and high-quality heating. With a heat capacity of up to 3kW, this model is perfectly suited to a range of domestic and commercial spaces. With a half and full heating setting, this model provides versatile use in homes, offices, schools, halls, and workshops. 

If you prefer a fixed, wall-mounted space warmer, the most popular solution is the Herschel Vulcan Warehouse heater. This three-phase powerful heater (9kW-12kW) will effortlessly warm up the largest spaces. Tackle any industrial environment with a safe and effective heating solution. 

For smaller sites, such as workshops, garages and factories, look no further than the Broughton FFHT32. This ductable, electric fan heater is ideal for keeping enclosed industrial environments nice and warm, promoting productively comfortable working conditions. 

This massive Master RS heater can handle a magnitude of 40kW heat output to accommodate to all industrial spaces. Alternatively, with an adjustable setting you can take control of the climate by operating the heater on 26kW or 13kW, depending on how much heat is necessary. When turned on, the fan heater will rapidly circulate warmth around an extensive radius. The Master RS is the perfect heating solution for warehouses, marquees, building and construction sites and more. 

Panel heaters are market-leading homestyle heaters. This Herchel panel heater is one of the best available, championing modest decorum by its discreet aesthetics and zero noise nor light. Plus, no emissions or maintenance requirements establishes this Herchel heater as an unbeatable sleek and stylish solution for electrical heating.