Are you a homeowner looking to set up a heating system for your household?

If you are in charge of setting up the heating in your home, school, or workplace, you’ve turned the right corner! As technology levels up each day, superficial aspects of daily life such as heating and cooling also find upgrades.

This article will walk you through the benefits of both oil-filled radiators and convector heaters. Once you get introduced to the benefits and drawbacks of both instruments, you can ultimately decide the best fit for your needs.

Key Takeaways

  • Various types of electric heaters are available on the market, including convector heaters, oil-filled radiators, under-rug heaters, halogen heaters, and fan heaters, each with unique features and applications.
  • Oil-filled radiators and convector heaters are suitable for heating large spaces and are known for their quiet operation and energy efficiency.
  • However, oil-filled radiators tend to be heavier and less portable, and both types of heaters can take some time to heat up, so they may not be suitable for situations requiring immediate heating.

What Are the Different Types of Heaters Available on The Market?

The advent of technology and the novelty of work-from-home have increased the need for room-to-room heating. Nowadays, almost every household is opting out of centralized heating to make way for compact, portable heating.

If you’re looking at portable and versatile electric heaters too, then there’s a whole array of heating instruments to choose from:

Convector Heaters

Convector heaters, also known as convection heaters, are a great heating source for larger rooms and spaces like a factory or a warehouse. They are a handy instrument that facilitates heating by using natural convection. They usually work by moving the heated air back into the airspace. Since these heaters don’t use fans, no noise gets created.

They also make an excellent fit for workplaces, hotels, and schools.

Oil-Filled Radiators

An oil-filled radiator is a form of convection heater which uses oil as a buffer for heating, ensuring energy-efficient heating. They are also an excellent fit for overnight heating since it retains the heat and stay warm for longer.

Electric Oil Heater

Under Rug Heaters

Under the rug, heaters are a brilliant way to heat your rooms and floors. These types of heaters ensure that your flooring stays heated and emanates it to the rest of the room. They are a great way to keep your feet toasty warm. If you have any pets, you will find that such heaters are also a big hit with them.

Halogen Heaters

Halogen heaters are a great heating source for your outdoor decks and terraces. These heating instruments use halogen gases inside the heater to lengthen the bulb’s lifespan and brighten it up. They are pretty useful for outdoor use because of their ability to generate higher heat levels.

One of the best features of these heaters is how quickly the heat gets generated. You can even take it to a park or an outdoor event because they are lightweight and portable.

Fan Heaters

Fan heaters stand true to their name, as in, they run with the help of an internal fan. It works by pushing air over a heating element by using a fan. This heats the air which is then let out to heat the room.

These heaters are mainly of two types: externally vented models and those powered by electricity.

Is an Oil-Filled Radiator Better than A Convection Heater?

Oil-filled radiators and convector heaters are similar on many levels. Both of these appliances have their benefits and ill-effects to look out for when you buy them. Here are some of their characteristic features for you to compare and contrast:

The Advantages of Oil-Filled Radiators and Convector Heaters

Oil-filled radiators and convector heaters are surprisingly useful in large spaces, such as schools, hotel lobbies, etc. If you need an area with large windows and surface area, think of oil-filled radiators and convectors.

They create virtually no sound. Both oil-filled radiators and convector heaters are champions in being silent while working. So, when you use these heating devices, you can be sure that you’ll sleep comfortably at night.

Although both convector heaters and oil-filled radiators are notorious for taking a while to heat, they are quite energy-efficient. Even if these appliances use a significant amount of electricity upfront, they are practical and better for the long run.

The Disadvantages of Oil-Filled Radiators and Convector Heaters

Some features aren’t quite viable with an oil-filled radiator or a convector. Firstly, oil-filled radiators are heavier, some weighing a whopping twenty pounds. Although many heaters come with wheels, the stocky build can make them less portable.

Additionally, oil-filled radiators and convector heaters can often be costly. Nevertheless, they are better in the long run because they retain heat and are great for warming large spaces.

Lastly, both convection heaters and oil-filled radiators as mentioned before can take a while to heat up. So, if you need urgent heating every time you’d switch these on, these are probably not the best choice for you.

Convection heater on wooden flooring

FAQs

Do Oil-Filled Radiators Use up A Lot of Electricity?

Oil-filled radiators use electricity quite effectively. They are an energy-efficient way of heating your rooms. They also manage to distribute heat evenly by using convection methods of heating.

Do I Have to Worry About a Fire Hazard when Using a Convection Heater?

Whether it’s a convection heater or a radiant heater, all electric heaters have the possibility of being a fire hazard. Ensure that you don’t leave any cords or wires opened or damaged.

Heat Pump Source: Reliable Heating and Cooling Solutions

At Heat Pump Source, we take pride in our unwavering commitment to serving the UK with top-tier HVAC solutions. From the efficiency of heat pumps and the cool relief of air conditioning to the warmth of boilers, radiators, and underfloor heating, our dedicated team is always at the forefront of innovation. We understand the unique needs of every household and business, and we strive to provide dependable health and cooling products and services that are tailored just for you. Ensuring your comfort and satisfaction is our utmost priority. Whether you have questions, need guidance, or require support, we’re always here to assist. Please don’t hesitate to contact us; we’re eager to be of service.

To Sum Up

You’ve seen the many benefits and hindrances that come with using oil-filled radiators and convectors. Evaluate each factor carefully, and make your pick. Both make viable options and prove feasible in different ways.

About the Author

At Heat Pump Source, our articles are the product of a collaborative effort among a team of highly skilled HVAC experts. Our dedicated professionals, hailing from diverse backgrounds in heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration, contribute their extensive knowledge and experience to every piece of content. This multidisciplinary approach ensures comprehensive coverage. Our commitment is to deliver authoritative, reliable, and tailored advice to meet the unique needs of every household and business across the UK.