The disadvantages of electric
Identifying Common Electric Radiator Problems
One of the most frequent issues is uneven heating. This situation often surfaces when parts of the radiator do not heat up while others do, leading to inconsistent room temperatures. Air trapped within the unit or a faulty thermostat typically causes this problem.
Overall, electric radiators are a great choice for home heating. They are energy efficient, safe, cost-effective, and comfortable. So if you're looking for a reliable and efficient heating solution, electric radiators are definitely worth considering.
If your electric radiator is securely fixed to a wall and unobstructed (no curtains or clothes dangling over them) they are fine to be left on overnight. If your electric radiator is freestanding or portable, it should never be left on overnight.
No, these radiators are generally energy-efficient. They provide long-lasting heat even after being turned off, making them cost-effective.
Far Infrared Heaters are the most efficient of all the space heater options and consume the lowest wattage, making them the cheapest to run. Far Infrared is radiant heating and is most easily absorbed by people's skin. In fact, all objects, including us emit and absorb infrared.
If you use a space heater in your home, please be aware that using a space heater can cause a significant increase in your monthly bill. A 1,000-watt space heater operating 12 hours a day will add about $40 to your monthly bill. If the cost does not deter you, remember how important it is to use space heaters safely.
Additionally, electric radiators boast a long lifespan, thanks to their minimal upkeep and lack of moving parts. Many electric radiators can serve you for up to 15 years or more, and their long warranties are a testament to their superior manufacturing.
Use localised heating controls
As well as using a thermostat and timer, using individual electric radiators rather than your entire electric heating system can save energy and money. This is especially effective when you lower the heating in rooms that aren't used as frequently as others.
Since electric radiators are secured on the wall, they won't be coming into contact with potentially flammable items such as curtains. Like portable heaters, the cables aren't long and at risk of being damaged either. The elements used to create heat within electric radiators are covered and completely protected.
Electric heaters heat through convection and are designed for occasional heating. They're lightweight, portable and cheaper than electric radiators, but are inherently less efficient. Electric radiators heat through a combination of convection and radiation making them extremely efficient.
Based on our comparisons, thermostatic tube heaters stand out as the most economical options. A tube heater is indeed the cheapest electric heater to run during winter, thanks to its low operational costs.
Leaving electric heaters on overnight is not recommended. Leaving a heater unattended for any length of time increases the risk of fire. For wall-mounted electric radiators, it's vital that all curtains and other combustible materials are kept well away from.
Electric heating does not produce carbon monoxide (CO), because it does not involve combustion. Carbon monoxide is a byproduct of incomplete combustion of carbon-based fuels such as gas, oil or coal.
Futureproof – Electric radiators are suitable for present and future use as renewable energy becomes more prominent. Safety – Using electricity to draw power instead of gas/burning fuel eliminates the risk of a carbon monoxide leak.
Yes, electric radiators are generally more energy-efficient compared to traditional heating systems. They convert almost all the electricity they use into heat, have precise temperature control, and minimal heat loss, making them a cost-effective and energy-efficient option for home heating.
Ideally, position your radiator under a window or as close as possible to a main heat loss area. This placement will counterbalance the heat loss, maximising the efficiency of your Electric Radiator and maintaining a comfortable living environment.
Set the temperature between 18 and 21ºC
To obtain a warm but healthy environment, we recommend a temperature between 18 and 21ºC. This will keep your home comfortable, whilst helping to reduce your energy consumption. The basic level of warmth required for a healthy, well-dressed person is 18ºC.
Apart from the occasional dusting, electric radiators do not need regular maintenance compared to traditional central heating.
All electric radiators from BestHeating are filled with a thermodynamic fluid called glycol, which enables them to operate with the utmost efficiency. Glycol is used because it is excellent at retaining and transferring heat, and incorporates an anti-corrosion inhibitor to prevent rusting.
However, electric radiators contain no internal moving parts, so there's less chance of a fault occurring, and they don't need to be bled.
What costs the most on your electric bill? Heating and cooling are by far the greatest energy users in the home, making up around 40% of your electric bill. Other big users are washers, dryers, ovens, and stoves. Electronic devices like laptops and TVs are usually pretty cheap to run, but of course, it can all add up.
Example (you can use an electric heater running cost calculator below for different wattages/kWh prices): If we assume the price of electricity is $0.1319 per kWh, a 1,500-watt electric space heater will cost; $0.20 to run per hour. $4.80 to run per 24 hours (day). $11.20 to run per week (8h/day).
Old windows and drafty attic spaces with air leaks are common culprits behind unusually high electric bills. Invest in new energy-efficient windows with better seals and glass, and make sure attic and basement spaces have proper insulation. The investment today will save you money on your bill down the road.