Choosing the right heater for your needs can be a difficult task, so we've put together this guide to help you make the best decision. This guide will cover the different types of heaters, the features to look for and the potential benefits and drawbacks of each type. By the time you finish reading this guide, you'll have the information you need to make the right decision.
Topics covered in this buying guide
- Why is a heater necessary?
- What are the types of heaters?
- Heater categories
- By brand
- By price
- By heating method
- By form factor
- Heater features to consider before buying
- How to pick a room heater for your family ?
- How to maintain room heaters?
- Heater pro tips
- Best-selling Heaters
- Need more help? Go through our researched Heater articles
Why is a heater necessary?
A heater is necessary for several reasons, primarily related to providing comfort, maintaining health and enabling various industrial processes. Here are some of the key reasons why heaters are essential:
- Temperature Regulation: Heaters are used to increase the temperature in indoor spaces during cold weather. They help maintain a comfortable environment by preventing excessively low temperatures that could lead to discomfort and even health issues.
- Health and Well-being: In cold climates, exposure to low temperatures for extended periods can be harmful to human health. Heaters help prevent conditions like hypothermia and frostbite, especially for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children and individuals with certain medical conditions.
- Preventing Freezing: In colder regions, heaters are used to prevent freezing of water pipes and other essential infrastructure, ensuring that water supply and various systems remain operational.
- Comfort and Productivity: Comfortable working conditions are essential for productivity in workplaces. Heaters contribute to a conducive environment, allowing people to focus better and perform their tasks efficiently.
Read detailed articles on heaters here.
What are the types of heaters?
It's important to know which type best suits your demands while looking for the right room heater for you. Here is a guide to help you understand the many heaters that are available.
1. FAN HEATER (also known as Ceramic / Convection / Blower room heaters)
A fan heater is an electric heater that uses a fan to circulate warm air. It works by heating air with a heating element and then using a fan to blow the warm air into the room. Fan heaters are often used to quickly heat up a room in a short period of time. They are a popular choice for those looking for a fast and efficient way to heat their home.
Pros
- Better coverage area and better to warm instantly as compared to radiant heaters
- Comparatively affordable to oil-filled heaters
- Costs around Rs. and Rs.
Cons
- Not very energy efficient (consume around watts)
- Convection heaters provide a serious risk of overheating
- Energy is wasted because the bottom doesn't get as warm
2. INFRARED HEATER (also known as Halogen / Quartz / Radiant room heater)
An infrared heater is a type of electric heater that uses the invisible infrared light spectrum to directly heat objects and people in the room without having to heat the air in between. It is often used to supplement traditional home heating systems, or in areas where a conventional space heater might not be practical, such as a garage or workshop. It works by emitting infrared radiation, which is absorbed by any solid object in its path, such as furniture and people. This radiation is then converted into heat, which is released into the surrounding environment.
Pros
- Safe and efficient thanks to automatic temperature control features.
- Most commonly used to provide heat to a specified area
- Ideal to keep by bedside
- Extremely energy-efficient, using 400&#;800 watts
- Functions quieter than driven air blowers
- Affordable choices starting from Rs.
Cons
- Radiation or infrared heaters are not child safe.
- They won't work for heating a large space.
- They don't provide instant heat.
- No filtering of air.
For more information, please visit Heating Elements for Home Comfort Devices.
3. OIL FILLED ROOM HEATER / OIL HEATER
An oil heater is a type of space heater that uses oil as its fuel source. It is typically composed of an electric heating element, a reservoir of oil, and a fan to disperse the heated air. Oil heaters are often used in residential homes and commercial buildings to heat large areas or provide additional warmth during cold weather. They are usually more efficient than electric space heaters, as the oil can retain its heat for a longer period of time.
Comparison amongst types of heaters
Features
Fan heater
Infrared heater
Oil heaterRoom space
Large
Large
Small
People in room
More
Single person
More
Heating time
Quick
Quick
10 - 15 minutes at least
Working
A fan on the ceramic coil will blow the heated air into the room to heat it up. The ceramic coil heats the air around it.
Uses electricity to create infrared heat and only transfers that heat to nearby spaces.
Oil and metal walls are heated through convection using power. The room is then heated via conduction from the walls.
Safety
Safe for children
Not safe for children
(as surface heats up)
Safe for children
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Heater categories
1. By brand
When searching for heaters by brand, you'll come across a wide array of options from various manufacturers. Depending on your heating needs and preferences, exploring these reputable brands can help you find a heater that matches your requirements for efficiency, safety, and performance. Always remember to read product reviews and compare features to make an informed decision when choosing a heater from a particular brand.
Also read
2. By price
Heaters come in a wide range of prices to accommodate different budgets and heating needs. The price of a heater can vary depending on factors such as the type of heater, its heating capacity, features, brand reputation, and overall build quality.
Also read
3. By heating method
Heaters can be categorized based on the heating method they use to generate and distribute heat. Each type of heater offers distinct advantages, so it's essential to consider these factors to select the most suitable heater for your requirements.
Convection
Forced Air
Radiant
Convection heaters work by heating the air in the room and causing it to circulate naturally. These heaters usually have heating elements that warm the air, and as the warm air rises, cooler air is drawn in to replace it, creating a convection current. Convection heaters are known for providing even and consistent heating throughout the room. Some common examples include electric baseboard heaters and oil-filled heaters.
Forced air heaters, also known as fan-forced heaters, use a fan to blow air over a heating element or heat exchanger, rapidly distributing warm air into the room. These heaters can quickly raise the temperature in a space and are often used for spot heating or in larger areas. Electric space heaters with fans and certain types of gas or propane heaters fall under this category.
Radiant heaters work by emitting infrared radiation directly to objects and people in the room, warming them directly without significantly heating the air. These heaters are known for their rapid and targeted heat transfer, making them efficient for providing instant warmth. Common examples of radiant heaters include electric infrared heaters and some outdoor patio heaters.
4. By form factor
Heaters come in various form factors to suit different heating needs and preferences. Let's take a look at each form factor
Cabinet
Cabinet heaters are compact and portable heaters designed to sit on the floor or a flat surface. They often have a box-like or cabinet-style design and can come with wheels for easy mobility. Cabinet heaters typically use various heating technologies such as ceramic or infrared.
Dish
Dish heaters are small, lightweight, and often portable heaters that use a reflective dish or parabolic reflector to direct the heat in a focused beam. They are suitable for spot heating and are commonly used in outdoor areas, workshops, or as personal heaters.
Mat
Mat heaters are thin, flexible, and electrically heated mats designed to provide localized heating. They are commonly used for underfloor heating or as warming mats for beds, pets, or specific areas.
Pedestal
Pedestal heaters are elevated heaters that sit on a pedestal or stand. They often have adjustable height settings and can provide widespread heat distribution. Pedestal heaters are popular for use in living rooms, offices, or larger spaces.
Tower
Tower heaters are tall, slim, and vertical heaters that are designed to occupy minimal floor space. They offer 360-degree heating and often come with oscillation features for even heat distribution. Tower heaters are suitable for bedrooms, living rooms, and offices.
Heater features to consider before buying
The features you've listed are indeed important considerations when buying a heater. Let's take a closer look at each feature and its significance:
Adjustable height allows you to customize the heater's position to direct the airflow where you need it most. This feature is especially useful for tower or pedestal heaters, as it lets you target the heat at different levels in the room, ensuring better comfort.
Check out heaters with adjustable heights here.
Fast heating capability ensures that the heater reaches your desired temperature quickly. This feature is particularly beneficial during colder months when you want to warm up the room rapidly.
Check out heaters with fast heating feature here.
A lightweight heater is easy to move around the house, making it convenient to transfer from one room to another. This portability is especially useful if you plan to use the heater in different areas or if you have limited storage space.
Check out lightweight heaters here.
Oscillating heaters have a feature that allows them to rotate or oscillate from side to side. This helps distribute heat more evenly throughout the room and prevents localized hot spots. Oscillation is particularly beneficial for larger spaces or when multiple people in the room need to experience the warmth.
Check out oscillating heaters here.
Overheat protection is a crucial safety feature that automatically shuts off the heater if it reaches an unsafe temperature. This helps prevent overheating, reduces the risk of fires, and ensures the safety of your family and property.
Check out heaters with overheat protection here.
How to pick a room heater for your family?
Selecting the right room heater for your family involves considering various factors to ensure it meets your heating needs, safety requirements and energy efficiency. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you pick a suitable room heater:
Determine Heating Needs
Assess the size of the room you want to heat. Larger rooms may require more powerful heaters or multiple units. Consider the climate in your area as well.
Choose the Right Type of Heater
Electric heaters are generally safer and easier to use, but they may have higher operating costs compared to gas heaters.
For portable heating, consider options like ceramic heaters, oil-filled heaters, or radiant heaters.
If you need central heating for the whole house, explore options like electric baseboard heaters, heat pumps or gas furnaces.
Digital Display and Controls
A clear and user-friendly digital display, along with intuitive controls, can make it easier to set and adjust the heater's settings.
Check Safety Features
Look for heaters with safety features such as tip-over protection, overheat protection, and cool-touch exteriors, especially if you have children or pets at home.
Heaters with safety certifications, such as UL (Underwriters Laboratories) or ETL (Intertek), are generally safer options.
Energy Efficiency
Choose heaters with adjustable thermostats, timers, or programmable settings to regulate heating and save energy.
Look for heaters with an Energy Star rating, as they meet specific energy efficiency standards.
Noise Level
If quiet operation is important, check user reviews or product specifications to find heaters with low noise levels.
Portability and Placement
For convenience, consider portable heaters with handles or wheels for easy movement between rooms. Ensure the heater's design allows for stable placement and proper ventilation.
Read Reviews and Recommendations
Research online reviews and user experiences to get insights into the performance, reliability, and safety of specific heater models.
Set a Budget
Determine a budget range for the room heater. Consider the initial cost, operating costs, and potential maintenance expenses.
Check Warranty and Customer Support
Look for heaters with a good warranty to protect your investment. Check the manufacturer's reputation for customer support and service.
Consider Eco-Friendly Options
If you want to reduce your carbon footprint, explore eco-friendly heaters, such as those powered by renewable energy or with low emissions.
Read detailed articles on heaters here.
How to maintain room heaters?
Proper maintenance of heaters is essential to ensure their efficient and safe operation. Regular maintenance can extend the lifespan of the heater, improve its performance and minimize the risk of malfunctions or hazards. Here are some general tips on how to maintain heaters:
1. Read the Manufacturer's Manual: Start by reading the user manual provided by the manufacturer. It contains important information on installation, operation, and maintenance specific to your heater model.
2. Keep the Area Around the Heater Clear: Make sure there are no flammable materials or obstructions near the heater. Keep a clear space around the heater to prevent overheating and fire hazards.
3. Regular Cleaning: Dust and debris can accumulate on the heater's surface and internal components, affecting its efficiency. Clean the heater regularly with a soft brush or a damp cloth. Ensure the heater is unplugged and cooled down before cleaning.
4. Check and Replace Filters: If your heater has a filter, inspect it regularly. Clean or replace the filter according to the manufacturer's recommendations to maintain proper airflow and prevent dust buildup.
5. Inspect Electrical Components: Check the power cord and plug for any signs of damage, and replace them if necessary. Avoid using extension cords if possible, as they can cause overheating.
6. Inspect and Clean Vents and Ducts: For central heating systems or wall-mounted heaters with vents and ducts, inspect them for blockages or obstructions. Ensure that air can flow freely to maximize the heater's efficiency.
7. Test Thermostat Accuracy: If your heater has a thermostat, check its accuracy by comparing the temperature reading with a separate thermometer. Calibrate or replace the thermostat if it's not functioning correctly.
8. Check for Gas Leaks (Gas Heaters): If you have a gas-powered heater, periodically check for gas leaks. You can do this by using a mixture of soapy water and applying it to the gas connections. If you see bubbles forming, there might be a leak, and you should contact a professional to address the issue.
9. Inspect Safety Features: Some heaters come with safety features like tip-over switches or overheat protection. Test these features occasionally to ensure they are working correctly.
10. Professional Inspection: Consider scheduling annual maintenance with a qualified technician. They can perform a thorough inspection, identify any potential issues, and perform necessary repairs or adjustments.
11. Store Heaters Properly: If you use portable heaters seasonally, store them in a clean and dry place when not in use. Check for any damage before using them again.
Heater Pro Tip:
Invest in a programmable thermostat or a smart thermostat that allows you to set specific heating schedules based on your daily routines. This way, you can program the heater to turn on before you wake up or return home, and then lower the temperature when you're away or sleeping. By doing so, you can save energy and reduce heating costs without sacrificing comfort.
Best-selling heaters
Need more help? Go through our researched heater articles
Articles based on the type of heaters
Articles based on your budget
Articles based on brands
Heaters are a great way to keep your home or workplace warm and comfortable during the cold winter months. Additionally, it is equipped with various safety features including an auto shut-off feature, overheating protection and a tip-over switch for added protection.Choosing the right heater for your needs can be a difficult task, so we've put together this guide to help you make the best decision. This guide will cover the different types of heaters, the features to look for and the potential benefits and drawbacks of each type. By the time you finish reading this guide, you'll have the information you need to make the right decision.A heater is necessary for several reasons, primarily related to providing comfort, maintaining health and enabling various industrial processes. Here are some of the key reasons why heaters are essential:It's important to know which type best suits your demands while looking for the right room heater for you. Here is a guide to help you understand the many heaters that are available.1. FAN HEATER (also known as Ceramic / Convection / Blower room heaters)A fan heater is an electric heater that uses a fan to circulate warm air. It works by heating air with a heating element and then using a fan to blow the warm air into the room. Fan heaters are often used to quickly heat up a room in a short period of time. They are a popular choice for those looking for a fast and efficient way to heat their home.2. INFRARED HEATER (also known as Halogen / Quartz / Radiant room heater)An infrared heater is a type of electric heater that uses the invisible infrared light spectrum to directly heat objects and people in the room without having to heat the air in between. It is often used to supplement traditional home heating systems, or in areas where a conventional space heater might not be practical, such as a garage or workshop. It works by emitting infrared radiation, which is absorbed by any solid object in its path, such as furniture and people. This radiation is then converted into heat, which is released into the surrounding environment.3. OIL FILLED ROOM HEATER / OIL HEATERAn oil heater is a type of space heater that uses oil as its fuel source. It is typically composed of an electric heating element, a reservoir of oil, and a fan to disperse the heated air. Oil heaters are often used in residential homes and commercial buildings to heat large areas or provide additional warmth during cold weather. They are usually more efficient than electric space heaters, as the oil can retain its heat for a longer period of time.Comparison amongst types of heatersWhen searching for heaters by brand, you'll come across a wide array of options from various manufacturers. Depending on your heating needs and preferences, exploring these reputable brands can help you find a heater that matches your requirements for efficiency, safety, and performance. Always remember to read product reviews and compare features to make an informed decision when choosing a heater from a particular brand.Also read Best Bajaj Room Heaters in India Heaters come in a wide range of prices to accommodate different budgets and heating needs. The price of a heater can vary depending on factors such as the type of heater, its heating capacity, features, brand reputation, and overall build quality.Also read Best Room Heaters Under Rs in India Best Room Heaters Under Rs in India and Best room heaters under Heaters can be categorized based on the heating method they use to generate and distribute heat. Each type of heater offers distinct advantages, so it's essential to consider these factors to select the most suitable heater for your requirements.Heaters come in various form factors to suit different heating needs and preferences. Let's take a look at each form factorThe features you've listed are indeed important considerations when buying a heater. Let's take a closer look at each feature and its significance:Adjustable height allows you to customize the heater's position to direct the airflow where you need it most. This feature is especially useful for tower or pedestal heaters, as it lets you target the heat at different levels in the room, ensuring better comfort.Fast heating capability ensures that the heater reaches your desired temperature quickly. This feature is particularly beneficial during colder months when you want to warm up the room rapidly.A lightweight heater is easy to move around the house, making it convenient to transfer from one room to another. This portability is especially useful if you plan to use the heater in different areas or if you have limited storage space.Oscillating heaters have a feature that allows them to rotate or oscillate from side to side. This helps distribute heat more evenly throughout the room and prevents localized hot spots. Oscillation is particularly beneficial for larger spaces or when multiple people in the room need to experience the warmth.Overheat protection is a crucial safety feature that automatically shuts off the heater if it reaches an unsafe temperature. This helps prevent overheating, reduces the risk of fires, and ensures the safety of your family and property.Selecting the right room heater for your family involves considering various factors to ensure it meets your heating needs, safety requirements and energy efficiency. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you pick a suitable room heater:Proper maintenance of heaters is essential to ensure their efficient and safe operation. Regular maintenance can extend the lifespan of the heater, improve its performance and minimize the risk of malfunctions or hazards. Here are some general tips on how to maintain heaters:1.: Start by reading the user manual provided by the manufacturer. It contains important information on installation, operation, and maintenance specific to your heater model.2.: Make sure there are no flammable materials or obstructions near the heater. Keep a clear space around the heater to prevent overheating and fire hazards.3.: Dust and debris can accumulate on the heater's surface and internal components, affecting its efficiency. Clean the heater regularly with a soft brush or a damp cloth. Ensure the heater is unplugged and cooled down before cleaning.4.: If your heater has a filter, inspect it regularly. Clean or replace the filter according to the manufacturer's recommendations to maintain proper airflow and prevent dust buildup.5.: Check the power cord and plug for any signs of damage, and replace them if necessary. Avoid using extension cords if possible, as they can cause overheating.6.: For central heating systems or wall-mounted heaters with vents and ducts, inspect them for blockages or obstructions. Ensure that air can flow freely to maximize the heater's efficiency.7.: If your heater has a thermostat, check its accuracy by comparing the temperature reading with a separate thermometer. Calibrate or replace the thermostat if it's not functioning correctly.8.: If you have a gas-powered heater, periodically check for gas leaks. You can do this by using a mixture of soapy water and applying it to the gas connections. If you see bubbles forming, there might be a leak, and you should contact a professional to address the issue.9.: Some heaters come with safety features like tip-over switches or overheat protection. Test these features occasionally to ensure they are working correctly.10.: Consider scheduling annual maintenance with a qualified technician. They can perform a thorough inspection, identify any potential issues, and perform necessary repairs or adjustments.11.: If you use portable heaters seasonally, store them in a clean and dry place when not in use. Check for any damage before using them again.Articles based on the type of heatersArticles based on your budgetArticles based on brands
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