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Heating Buying Guide

Heating Buying Guide
Expert Buying Tips on How To Choose the Best Model

In this blog, we’ll walk through the main kinds of heaters available today, from compact electric models to heavy-duty fuel-based systems. You’ll learn how each one works, where it performs best, and what to consider when deciding which heater matches your space and needs. We’ll also touch on energy efficiency, safety, and helpful features that can make your life easier.

Heaters are equipped with a variety of features designed to accommodate diverse requirements across residential and industrial settings. Common functionalities include adjustable heat output, portability, fuel level indicators, safety shut-off mechanisms, programmable timers, rapid heat-up capabilities, and low-noise operations. Many models also incorporate built-in thermostats to maintain consistent temperatures while optimizing energy efficiency.

The choice of heater depends largely on the intended application and the size of the space. For instance, compact ceramic fan heaters offer quick, odour-free heating and are well-suited for domestic environments. In contrast, high-capacity Kerosene or Diesel Space Warmer® units are engineered for use in large, well-ventilated industrial or workshop areas, with the ability to effectively heat spaces up to 2,500 m³.

Understandig Heater Measurements

When comparing heaters, you’ll often see their power output described using one of the following units:

  • Watts (W) or Kilowatts (kW): These are units of power showing how much energy the heater uses per hour. 1 kilowatt equals 1,000 watts.
  • BTU (British Thermal Units): This is a traditional unit of heat output and is commonly used in the UK to describe heating capacity. 1 watt is approximately equal to 3.41 BTU/hr.

To determine the appropriate heater size for your space, you can estimate the required power based on the room’s dimensions. Here's a simple example:

  • Room size:
    4m x 4m = 16m²
  •  Multiply by 111 to estimate the wattage needed:
    16 × 111 = 1776W
  • Convert to kilowatts:
    1776 ÷ 1000 = 1.78kW
  • Convert to BTU/hr:
    776 × 3.41 = 6056 BTU/hr (Alternatively, multiply kW by 3412)

These calculations assume a standard ceiling height of 2.5 metres and average insulation. If your space has high ceilings, poor insulation, or large windows, you may need a more powerful heater to maintain a comfortable temperature.

Want to learn more about conversions? Check out our conversion tables and reference page.

Heater Types

Once it is established what size heater is required, it is worth considering where and how the heater is going to be used. Below are some suggestions to suit various environments.

Convetor Heaters

Convector heaters operate by leveraging the natural movement of air to distribute heat evenly throughout a space. As warm air rises and cooler air descends, the heater facilitates continuous circulation, resulting in a consistent room temperature and rapid responsiveness.

While convector heaters are effective in quickly warming small to medium-sized areas, it’s important to note that the heat dissipates relatively quickly once the unit is turned off. Additionally, due to the constant air movement, these heaters may not be suitable for individuals with dust allergies or respiratory sensitivities.

Convetor Heaters

Convector heaters operate by leveraging the natural movement of air to distribute heat evenly throughout a space. As warm air rises and cooler air descends, the heater facilitates continuous circulation, resulting in a consistent room temperature and rapid responsiveness.

While convector heaters are effective in quickly warming small to medium-sized areas, it’s important to note that the heat dissipates relatively quickly once the unit is turned off. Additionally, due to the constant air movement, these heaters may not be suitable for individuals with dust allergies or respiratory sensitivities.

Oil Filled Heaters

Oil-filled heaters use an internal electric element to heat a sealed reservoir of thermal oil. This heated oil circulates through a series of connected fins or panels, increasing the surface area available for heat transfer. The larger the surface area, the more effectively warmth is radiated into the surrounding space.

These heaters operate silently and retain heat for extended periods, even after being switched off, making them particularly well-suited for continuous, energy-efficient heating in living areas.

 

Oil Filled Heaters

Oil-filled heaters use an internal electric element to heat a sealed reservoir of thermal oil. This heated oil circulates through a series of connected fins or panels, increasing the surface area available for heat transfer. The larger the surface area, the more effectively warmth is radiated into the surrounding space.

These heaters operate silently and retain heat for extended periods, even after being switched off, making them particularly well-suited for continuous, energy-efficient heating in living areas.

Ceramic Heaters

Ceramic heaters use a ceramic element coated with metal to generate heat through electrical resistance. These heaters primarily emit radiant heat, directly warming objects and people in their path rather than heating the surrounding air.

This targeted heating approach makes ceramic heaters particularly energy-efficient, especially in smaller spaces where focused warmth is desired. Their quick heat-up time and compact design also make them a practical choice for spot heating indoor work areas and building sites.

Ceramic Heaters

Ceramic heaters use a ceramic element coated with metal to generate heat through electrical resistance. These heaters primarily emit radiant heat, directly warming objects and people in their path rather than heating the surrounding air.

This targeted heating approach makes ceramic heaters particularly energy-efficient, especially in smaller spaces where focused warmth is desired. Their quick heat-up time and compact design also make them a practical choice for spot heating indoor work areas and building sites.

PTC Heaters

PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) heaters are compact, lightweight, and engineered for both safety and energy efficiency. They utilize a self-regulating ceramic element that draws maximum power at start-up to deliver rapid and consistent heat output.

As the heater reaches its set temperature, the PTC material naturally reduces the current flow, lowering power usage. This makes them ideal for both home and commercial environments that need quick, controlled heating.

PTC Heaters

PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) heaters are compact, lightweight, and engineered for both safety and energy efficiency. They utilize a self-regulating ceramic element that draws maximum power at start-up to deliver rapid and consistent heat output.

As the heater reaches its set temperature, the PTC material naturally reduces the current flow, lowering power usage. This makes them ideal for both home and commercial environments that need quick, controlled heating.

Infrared Quartz Heaters

 

Infrared quartz heaters convert electrical energy into radiant heat, which directly warms people and objects within their line of sight. Unlike convection heaters that heat the surrounding air, infrared heaters deliver focused warmth to people or objects in its path, making them highly efficient for spaces requiring quick, targeted heating.

This type of heater is particularly well-suited for outdoor use, such as patios, terraces, or open commercial areas, where traditional heating methods are less effective. The radiant heat produced lingers even after the unit is switched off, helping to maintain a comfortable ambient temperature in open or drafty environments.

Infrared Quartz Heaters

Infrared quartz heaters convert electrical energy into radiant heat, which directly warms people and objects within their line of sight. Unlike convection heaters that heat the surrounding air, infrared heaters deliver focused warmth to people or objects in its path, making them highly efficient for spaces requiring quick, targeted heating.

This type of heater is particularly well-suited for outdoor use, such as patios, terraces, or open commercial areas, where traditional heating methods are less effective. The radiant heat produced lingers even after the unit is switched off, helping to maintain a comfortable ambient temperature in open or drafty environments.

 

Fuel-based Heaters

Fuel-based heaters, powered by propane gas, diesel, or kerosene, are specifically designed for use in large, well-ventilated environments such as workshops, barns, warehouses, and construction sites. These spaces often feature open doors, high ceilings, or limited insulation, making fuel heaters a practical and effective heating solution.

Kerosene and diesel models, in particular, deliver powerful heat by warming the surrounding air, enabling them to maintain comfortable temperatures in expansive areas. However, due to the emission of fumes during operation, it is essential that these heaters are used only in spaces with adequate ventilation to ensure safe and efficient performance.

Fuel-based Heaters

Fuel-based heaters, powered by propane gas, diesel, or kerosene, are specifically designed for use in large, well-ventilated environments such as workshops, barns, warehouses, and construction sites. These spaces often feature open doors, high ceilings, or limited insulation, making fuel heaters a practical and effective heating solution.

Kerosene and diesel models, in particular, deliver powerful heat by warming the surrounding air, enabling them to maintain comfortable temperatures in expansive areas. However, due to the emission of fumes during operation, it is essential that these heaters are used only in spaces with adequate ventilation to ensure safe and efficient performance.

Glass Panel Heaters

Glass panel heaters combine modern aesthetics with efficient electric heating technology. They use a built-in convection system or radiant panel to generate and distribute heat evenly across a room. The sleek glass surface not only enhances the visual appeal but also serves as an effective heat conductor.

These heaters are typically wall-mounted or freestanding, making them ideal for contemporary living spaces where both style and functionality are important. Many models feature digital thermostats, programmable timers, and child safety locks, offering precise temperature control and added peace of mind. While best suited for well-insulated indoor environments, glass panel heaters provide a quiet, low-maintenance solution for consistent background warmth.

Glass Panel Heaters

Glass panel heaters combine modern aesthetics with efficient electric heating technology. They use a built-in convection system or radiant panel to generate and distribute heat evenly across a room. The sleek glass surface not only enhances the visual appeal but also serves as an effective heat conductor.

These heaters are typically wall-mounted or freestanding, making them ideal for contemporary living spaces where both style and functionality are important. Many models feature digital thermostats, programmable timers, and child safety locks, offering precise temperature control and added peace of mind. While best suited for well-insulated indoor environments, glass panel heaters provide a quiet, low-maintenance solution for consistent background warmth.

Indirect Fuel Heaters

Indirect fuel heaters are high-performance heating systems designed for large, enclosed, or semi-enclosed spaces where clean, dry, fume-free air is essential. These units burn fuel (typically diesel ) in a sealed combustion chamber. The heat generated is transferred via a heat exchanger, while combustion gases are safely expelled through a flue, ensuring only clean, warm air is circulated into the space.

This makes indirect heaters ideal for environments such as marquees, event spaces, construction sites, agricultural buildings, and temporary shelters. They are particularly effective in areas with limited ventilation, where direct-fired heaters would be unsuitable due to emissions.

Indirect Fuel Heaters

Indirect fuel heaters are high-performance heating systems designed for large, enclosed, or semi-enclosed spaces where clean, dry, fume-free air is essential. These units burn fuel (typically diesel ) in a sealed combustion chamber. The heat generated is transferred via a heat exchanger, while combustion gases are safely expelled through a flue, ensuring only clean, warm air is circulated into the space.

This makes indirect heaters ideal for environments such as marquees, event spaces, construction sites, agricultural buildings, and temporary shelters. They are particularly effective in areas with limited ventilation, where direct-fired heaters would be unsuitable due to emissions.

Comparison Chart of Heater Types

Heater Type Energy Source Energy Usage Best for Pros Cons

Convector

Electricicty

Moderate

Small to medium rooms

Quick & even heating.

Heat faces once turned off.

Oil-filled

Electricicty

Low to Moderate

Small to medium rooms

Silent & long-lasting heat.

Slow to heat up.

Ceramic

Electricicty

Low Efficient

Outdoor spot heating

Compact, direct & instant warmth.

Can dry out rooms.
Small coverage area.

PTC

Electricicty

Very Efficient

Homes & offices

Safe, self-refulating & steady heat.

Small coverage area.

Infrared Quartz

Electricicty

Low Efficient

Outdoor spot heating & small areas

Direct & instant warmth.

Not ideal for larger spaces.

Fueled-Based

Gas/Kerosene/Diesel

High

Workshops, barns, warehouses...

Very powerful. Covers huge spaces.

Ventilation required, fumes & noise.

Glass Panel

Electricicty

Moderate

Homes & offices

Stylish, slim & programmable.

Smaller coverage area.

Indirect Fuel

Kerosene/Diesel

High

Large enclosed event/work site

Clean, dry & fume-free warm air.

Bulkier, higher running cost.

Energy Efficiency

Energy Label

Energy labels like these are mandatory on most electrical appliances, including many types of heaters. These labels provide a clear indication of an appliance’s energy consumption during typical use, rated on a scale from A+++ (most efficient) to G (least efficient). This system helps consumers make informed choices and encourages manufacturers to improve product performance.

Energy Efficiency

ErP Regulation

The ErP (Energy-related Products) Regulation, established by the EU and retained in UK law post-Brexit, sets minimum energy efficiency standards for products that consume energy. It applies to a wide range of heating appliances, including electric heaters, space heaters, and fuel-based systems. The regulation aims to reduce energy consumption, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and promote sustainable product design.

 

In the UK, the Ecodesign for Energy-Related Products Regulations 2010 (as amended) govern compliance. Manufacturers, importers, or authorised representatives are responsible for ensuring that products placed on the market meet these standards. Products that comply with ErP requirements will display the appropriate logo or label, indicating conformity. All of our ErP compliant products feature the logo clearly shown on the right.

 

Energy Efficiency

Energy Label

Energy labels like these are mandatory on most electrical appliances, including many types of heaters. These labels provide a clear indication of an appliance’s energy consumption during typical use, rated on a scale from A+++ (most efficient) to G (least efficient). This system helps consumers make informed choices and encourages manufacturers to improve product performance.

Energy Efficiency

ErP Regulation

The ErP (Energy-related Products) Regulation, established by the EU and retained in UK law post-Brexit, sets minimum energy efficiency standards for products that consume energy. It applies to a wide range of heating appliances, including electric heaters, space heaters, and fuel-based systems. The regulation aims to reduce energy consumption, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and promote sustainable product design.

 

In the UK, the Ecodesign for Energy-Related Products Regulations 2010 (as amended) govern compliance. Manufacturers, importers, or authorised representatives are responsible for ensuring that products placed on the market meet these standards. Products that comply with ErP requirements will display the appropriate logo or label, indicating conformity. All of our ErP compliant products feature the logo clearly shown on the right.

 

Other Features to Consider

Prioritise chargers with built‑in protections such as: overcharge, reverse polarity, short‑circuit, overheat and spark‑proofing. Smart chargers are inherently safer for vehicles with Stop‑Start systems. Additionally, choose models with eco‑friendly operation (low standby power) for environmental responsibility.

Condensation

In environments where maintaining a dry atmosphere is critical—such as storage areas, workshops, or spaces with sensitive equipment—condensation must be carefully managed. Electric heaters are generally more suitable in these settings, as they do not produce moisture during operation. In such cases, we advise turning to suppliers of ATEX-certified or specialist heaters, consulting suppliers who focus on these advanced safety models.

Temperature Control

Many heaters feature built-in thermostats that allow users to set a preferred temperature. Once the desired level is reached, the heater automatically cycles on and off to maintain consistent warmth. This not only enhances comfort but also improves energy or fuel efficiency by preventing unnecessary operation.

Timers

Some models include programmable timers, enabling users to schedule heating periods according to their needs. This feature helps reduce energy consumption, lowers running costs, and minimises fire risk by preventing heaters from being left on unintentionally.

Mains Power Supply

When selecting electric heaters rated above 3,000 watts, it is essential to consider the power supply. These units typically exceed the capacity of a standard 13-amp household socket and may require a dedicated circuit. In such cases, a qualified electrician should be consulted to ensure safe and compliant installation.

Static or Mobile Options

They are available depending on how the heater will be used. Portable heaters suit tasks requiring heat close to a working area or frequent relocation, with larger units often fitted with wheels for mobility. Wall-mounted heaters are ideal for permanent installations and are usually positioned above head height for improved safety.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, heaters come in all shapes and sizes, and the “best one” really depends on your space and lifestyle. If you want something sleek for your living room, a glass panel heater might be perfect. For quiet all-day warmth, oil-filled heaters shine. Need fast spot heating? Ceramic or PTC models are your friend. And for the really big jobs (like warehouses or outdoor spaces) fuel-based or infrared heaters do the heavy lifting.

The main takeaway? Think about where the heater will be used, how often, and what kind of warmth you need. By matching the right type of heater to your environment, you’ll enjoy comfort, efficiency, and peace of mind, season after season.