It’s summer right now, but as the days grow longer, there are still chilly days ahead that require some extra heating help at home. Whether you want to stay productive during work hours or create a cozy atmosphere in the evenings, a portable heater can be a great solution.
There are various types of heaters available, including fan, ceramic, halogen, and oil-filled heaters. If you’re unsure which type would best suit your needs, our comprehensive guide outlines the different options along with their advantages and disadvantages.
Before purchasing a portable heater, there are a couple of important factors to consider. First and foremost, prioritize safety. Never cover the heater or use it to dry clothes, as this can lead to accidents or fire hazards.
Secondly, be mindful of the cost associated with running a portable heater. While it can save you from using central heating, running a plug-in heater all day can consume a significant amount of power. To determine the running costs, check your new tariff if you’re in the UK, find the wattage of the heater you’re interested in, and use an energy calculator to estimate the expenses accurately.
For example, running a 1000W heater on an average tariff under the new October price cap in the UK will cost around 34p per hour. If the heater is left on for an entire working day, it would amount to £2.38. Keep in mind that different power settings will consume varying amounts of electricity, and using a power meter can provide a more precise cost estimate.
Remember, there are also cost-effective ways to keep warm at home if you’re open to the idea of heating yourself instead of the entire room. We have reviewed products like the Glamhaus heated throw and the Cosi Home heated blanket, which provide warmth at a fraction of the cost.
If you’re looking for more control over individual radiators and potential energy savings, consider our guide on the best smart radiator valves. And if you’re ready to embrace a fully smart home heating system, we’ve compiled a round-up of the best smart thermostats available.
Here are some of the top portable heaters we recommend:
- Princess Smart Glass Panel Heater – Best for semi-permanent use Pros: Minimalist design, silent operation, powerful heating, smart features including scheduling Cons: Heavy and less portable than other options
- Dreo Solaris Slim H3 Space Heater – Best compact heater Pros: Compact and attractive design, powerful heating, failsafes for automatic shut-off Cons: Lacks smart features, higher power consumption on top setting
- Dyson Purifier HP09 Hot+Cool Formaldehyde – Best 3-in-1 appliance Pros: Stylish design, year-round usage, can destroy formaldehyde, app and virtual assistant control Cons: Expensive, not easily portable
- Princess Smart Heating & Cooling Tower – Best 2-in-1 appliance Pros: Versatile design, attractive and compact, easy-to-use controls, good smart features Cons: Relatively pricey, fan can be noisy on higher settings
- De’Longhi Capsule Ceramic Fan Heater – Stylish, compact design Pros: Stylish and compact design, capable heating Cons: Noisy operation
- Dreo PTC Fan Heater – Best desk heater Pros: Quiet operation, well-made and powerful for its size Cons: Limited use of oscillation
- Dimplex M2GTS Ceramic Heater – Powerful ceramic heater Pros: Powerful heating, timer function, LCD screen Cons: May not suit every interior style
- Dimplex EvoRad 2kW Oil Free Radiator – Quietest heater Pros: Silent operation, fast heating, timer function Cons: Fiddly settings, flimsy castors
At our publication, we believe in providing honest evaluations based on real-life usage rather than lab tests. We thoroughly test each heater in various scenarios to ensure we deliver accurate and practical recommendations for your specific needs.
When it comes to choosing the right portable heater, it’s essential to consider your specific requirements. Think about the size of the space you want to heat, whether you need additional features like smart controls or oscillation, and your budget. Portable heaters come in a range of prices, so you can find an option that suits both your heating needs and your wallet.
Furthermore, keep in mind that using a portable heater should be complemented by energy-efficient practices to maximize savings. Consider insulating your home, sealing drafts, and using the heater only in the rooms you occupy the most. Dressing warmly and using blankets can also help reduce reliance on heating appliances.
With the right portable heater, you can create a comfortable and cozy environment during those chilly days. Make an informed decision by referring to our comprehensive guide and weighing the pros and cons of each recommended product. Stay warm and enjoy the colder seasons with efficient and effective heating solutions for your home.
