Electric heaters that deliver radiant warmth are considered the most efficient. This is because infrared radiation heats objects directly, sinking deeply beneath the surface. It's a natural, soothing form of warmth that lasts longer than convection, which relies on heating the air.
The most efficient method of electric heating is a heat pump. That is essentially an air conditioner running in reverse. It does require installation of a compressor outside, so it might not be feasible for a flat.
Heat pump heaters and reverse cycle air conditioning units are the most energy efficient heating system you can buy, compared to a conventional electric heater. According to Your Home, even the cheaper reverse cycle air conditioner models generate less greenhouse gas emissions than other heating appliances.
Heat pump running cost
Depending on your regional utility rates, an electric heat pump costs $0.20 to $0.50 per hour to run. Homeowners use heat pumps for both heating and cooling, providing year-round comfort. They are popular in moderate climates and regions with milder winters.
Choosing a low-energy consumption heating system for your home. Here are some of the most commonly used low-consumption heating systems today: heat pumps, both geothermal and air source; pellet stoves and boilers; low-consumption electric radiators; and condensing boilers.
Though common, oil systems are one of the most expensive ways to heat a home. Natural gas is cheaper, but there are some hidden costs to switching. When you're considering oil vs. natural gas, there are a few things to consider before you pick one.
If you want to save money on your heating costs, then an infrared heater is the best type of heater to choose. An infrared heater will use less electricity than any other type of heater, and so it will be cheaper to run. Not only that, but an infrared heater will also provide you with a more efficient form of heat.
Relative to air-source heat pumps, they are quieter, more efficient, last longer, need little maintenance, and do not rely on the temperature of the outside air, which is more variable than the ground temperature in most climates.
But don't worry, infrared heaters are incredibly efficient. They're designed to keep a space warm while using as little electricity as possible.
For homeowners who want the most efficient heating system available, heat pumps are the best candidate.
The Future is Electric
The document points to ground source heat pumps (that use electricity), heat networks as well as electric heating as recommended alternatives to current gas boilers and central heating.
Heating Tips
Just be sure to set the temperature at a reasonable temperature. Clean or replace filters on furnaces once a month or as recommended. Clean warm-air registers, baseboard heaters, and radiators as needed; make sure they're not blocked by furniture, carpeting, or drapes.
To install a geothermal heat pump in 2,000 square foot home it will cost between $15,000 to $38,000 based on the system size and loop type. This is double the price of of a conventional HVAC system, but the savings on utility bills will be beneficial in the long run. Find the best HVAC contractors in your area.
Expensive source of energy
As previously mentioned, most geothermal resources cannot be utilized in a cost-effective manner, at least not with current technology, level of subsidies, and energy prices. The upfront costs of geothermal heating and cooling systems for homes and commercial buildings are also steep.
Geothermal systems can be designed to require no backup, even during the coldest temperatures.
Electric radiators are almost 100% efficient at point of use, meaning all of the energy they draw from the wall is converted into usable heat that will warm both you and your home.
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).
Disadvantages of Quartz Heaters: 1. Safety concerns: Although quartz heaters are generally safe to use, they can pose a risk of fire if they are not used properly. The quartz tube can get very hot, so it's important to make sure that it is not touching any flammable materials.
Unlike traditional space heaters, many solar air heaters typically need to be mounted to a roof, wall, or window, in order to collect the sun's heat. Some of these collectors can be heavy and installation may require a building permit. The way they work is relatively simple.