Which heater is better to choose for a house and apartment: a comparative review of units

If in the sweltering summer heat air conditioners become bestsellers, then with the onset of cold weather, household heaters take over the baton of favorites in terms of demand. Their use in private houses and apartments is bound to improve the quality of living during the cold season.

Are you also thinking about buying, but don’t know how to choose a heater among the impressive range offered by a number of manufacturers? We will help you understand this issue in detail - the article discusses various types of heating devices, their pros and cons are given.

We also examined the intricacies of determining the required power depending on the size of the room, supplementing this article with thematic photos and video recommendations for choosing the optimal type of heater for the home for clarity.

Determine the required power of the device

The power of the device is one of the key characteristics when choosing a heater. The area of ​​the room into which heat is supposed to be supplied is another decisive factor.

If the area of ​​the room is not heated, but has good thermal insulation, then 1.5 kW of unit power per 27 m² will be sufficient.If the room has a heating system, then a heater with a power of 1 kW is ideal for additional heating of an average room of 25 m².

What else needs to be taken into account for a more accurate calculation:

• temperature difference inside and outside the room;
• the level of thermal insulation of windows and their number;
• on which side is the apartment or house located - sunny, shady;
• number of people living;
• age of the building;
• quantity of heat-transfer equipment (refrigerators, televisions, computers);
• ceiling height - the lower they are, the less heater power.

Basically, for a typical apartment with ceilings of 2.5 meters and an area of ​​24-27 m², a device with a power of 2500 W is suitable. For a smaller area (20-22 m²), a 2000 W device is needed, etc.

Modern heating equipment is mainly equipped with thermostats that are capable of maintaining the desired temperature automatically.

Thermostats do not always have a scale indicating degrees, working on the principle - more - less.

The household heaters presented for sale are reliable equipment, thought out in terms of safety aspects

Popular types of household heaters

The market for heating units is vast, and it is difficult for a person ignorant of the intricacies of the characteristics of heat-generating devices to make a choice in favor of any specific model.

Which heater is best suited for a private home, and which one will be most functional in an apartment? To do this, it is worth studying in detail all the pros and cons of heating units.

We bring to your attention an article about the best electric sheets.

Type #1 - oil devices

This type of heater is popular due to its ease of maintenance and high heat output.

To obtain heat, simply move it to the area of ​​the desired high temperature concentration and plug the device into a power outlet.

The latest models of oil heaters are equipped with thermostats, which allows you to set a specific warm-up temperature. There are modifications with timers

The main structural components of the oil device:

• Metal tank. It contains a coolant - mineral oil, which can “hold” and distribute heat for a long time.
• A heating element. It heats up the oil, which redistributes the heat to the body of the unit, and from there to the surrounding space.
• Thermostat. Located on the control panel, it is designed to regulate the temperature.

The device looks like an ordinary radiator with an outlet to the electrical network. There are many models equipped with rollers, which ensures mobility and versatility of use.

The design of the oil device has an air cushion that compensates for the linear expansion of the oil when heated. Without it, the radiator would burst after short use

Significant advantages of a heater with coolant oil:

• Optimal power range. The interval is from 1 to 1.5 kW, which allows it to be used for heating not only an apartment, but also a country house.
• Automatic thermostat. Allows you to maintain optimal temperature conditions in the room.
• Maintaining comfortable air humidity. The device does not dry out the air, since it does not contain open heating elements.
• Price. The oil unit is inexpensive.
• Quiet operation. Does not cause discomfort to residents.
• Mobility. The wheels of the device make it easy to move.

Some models are equipped with a shutdown timer to save electricity.

We cannot ignore the negative qualities that reduce consumer interest in oil units.The heating process is slow and the distribution of warm air takes a long time. If oil leaks, burns and irritation may occur.

Are you interested in an oil type heater? We have an article on our website with recommendations for choosing it - go here linkto view the material.

Type #2 - modern convectors

The appearance of a convector heater differs from an oil radiator due to its more streamlined shape and compactness. It can be easily placed on the floor or wall. There are also convectors on wheels.

The convector device heats the air, which, when heated, rushes to the ceiling. Instead, the unit processes the next portion of cold air, which will then be replaced by an air mass cooled near the ceiling

Operating principle of an electric convector:

• Heating elements built into the central panel heat the air mass.
• The heated air flow, according to the laws of physics, rushes to the ceiling, freeing up space for cold air.
• The air cooled under the ceiling moves back to the convector installation area, replacing the air mass heated by the unit.

The device is equipped with a sensor that takes readings about the actual air temperature in the room. It is worth knowing that the heater is safe with respect to the possibility of electric shock, since the heating element does not come into contact with the body of the unit and therefore does not require grounding.

This device can be safely used to heat children's rooms. It does not dry out the air and therefore does not promote the growth of harmful bacteria that prefer a dry environment

The undeniable advantages of convector heaters:

• Silence. The heating unit can operate almost continuously without causing irritation.
• Safety. Structurally minimized, the risks of fire and accidental burns are practically eliminated.
• Balanced heating. The unit evenly supplies air flows to the room being treated, which are regularly replaced by cooled mass.  

The disadvantages include the low rate of heating of the rooms, which is more than compensated by the ability to maintain the temperature background due to the presence of a thermostat. The devices do not require thorough control, because the same device turns off and turns on the heater when the set temperatures are reached.

Convector heating devices are produced in two installation variations: wall-mounted and floor-mounted. The wall-mounted variety has more admirers as it is the most convenient and does not impede movement.

A built-in floor convector is an interesting solution that allows you to use space wisely. It is a system of heaters located in a metal casing

A rational place for the location of a convector device is considered to be the area under the window opening. In this position, it will not only process the air in the room, but also form a kind of air curtain that will prevent the penetration of cold currents from the street.

Don't know which convector is best for your space? We recommend that you read the recommendations for choosing a convector heater for home.

Type #3 - fan heater

A fan heater is essentially an improved convector. Its system uses thinner heating elements, and the air flow is stimulated by its own fan.The unit is attractive due to its small dimensions and similar weight; its installation and operation do not require special skills.

Fan heaters are equipped with different types of heating elements, including:

• Nichrome wire spiral. It is wound onto a rod made of non-flammable material, most often ceramic or graphite. May be open or enclosed in a glass flask. An inexpensive option, but often spreading the smell of burnt dust that settled on it during operation.
• Ceramic plate. It has a larger area than a spiral, so it heats up faster. The plate has holes through which heated air flows. It costs almost three times more than the previously described option.
• Metal or graphite heating element. This type of heater is placed in a tube with sand or manganese oxide filling the remaining space. This design allows for more even distribution of heat. It has more power than previous types, and is disappointing at its impressive price.

In addition to the listed heating elements, there are all kinds of variations on the theme of heating devices and devices. The operating principle of all types of units is simple: the device sucks air from the room, passes it through a thermal element and supplies it back.

You can even assemble the fan heater yourself, using available materials. And we discussed in detail how to do this in our other article.

The fan heater is also called the “fastest” heater of all existing ones. If you need to warm up in an emergency, turn on the fan heater

List of advantages of fan heaters:

• Speed. The fastest possible heating of the air, thanks to the intensive circulation of the flow.
• Versatility. Can be used as a heater in winter and as a fan in summer.
• System protection. The thermostat prevents the device from overheating.
• Wide choose. Large selection of models - mobile, stationary, etc.
• High efficiency (85%). High performance reduces energy costs.
  

Among the disadvantages we include the fact of unwanted air drying. The units make noise when operating, sometimes burn dust and emit a negative odor. The latest models are protected from dust settling on the working part and from moisture entering the system.

Most fan heaters are small, portable models used as a source of additional heat.

A fan heater can serve as an additional source of heat in the presence of main heating, since its range of action is limited. The main thing is to choose the right device. In order not to be mistaken in this matter, we advise you to read the material on choosing a fan heater.

Type #4 - thermal curtains

Such devices are most often used to complement utility systems at commercial and industrial facilities - factory workshops, supermarkets, shopping centers.

But in private homes, thermal curtains are also sometimes installed to create a barrier to cold air and retain heat indoors. The devices create a flow of warm air from top to bottom. Such a unit is capable of heating a small room (25 m²).

The systems operate on a principle common to all heaters. The device housing contains a heating element and a high-power fan. A powerful fan directs the air flow in a specific direction, and the heating element heats it.

In addition to standard heating work, the units create an air barrier for drafts.

Thermal curtains are used mainly as additional heat-generating elements. They would be appropriate above the front door of a country house.

Advantages of the devices:

• Economical. Contributes to heat conservation, because creating a barrier to the penetration of air from the outside, at the same time preventing its leakage to the outside.
• Excellent protection. Does not allow street dust, harmful exhausts and insects into the room. Isolates the space from cold air currents.

Disadvantages include high cost and increased energy consumption. They are capable of heating only a small room and are mainly used in combination with other heating equipment.

Automatic regulation of thermal curtains allows you to control their operation without much effort, simply by setting the desired setting, focusing on the size of the opening and the outside temperature

Type #5 - classic electric fireplaces

This device is very often used as an element of the interior, focusing more on its aesthetics than on its functional qualities. However, electric fireplaces are capable of efficiently heating a room. There are many types of this climate control equipment: island, corner, built-in, suspended, mobile.

Structural elements of electric fireplaces:

• Heating system. Heating coils or heating elements are located on the top of the panel.
• Air supply device. The built-in ventilation system supplies air to the heating elements and then into the room, simultaneously cooling the housing and preventing overheating.

The thermostat controls the operation of the fireplace automatically, responding to changes in the temperature background.The devices can also perform a decorative function - simulating fire with lighting.

Some modern electric fireplaces have backlighting, a sleep timer, a decorative fire burning speed control, and even a sound control.

Positive aspects of an electric fireplace:

• Simplicity. Does not require special installation, unlike a wood-burning fireplace. Does not require labor-intensive maintenance or cleaning from carbon deposits.
• Aesthetics. Creates a special atmosphere in the room. Thanks to the variety of models, it easily fits into urban and country interiors.

Electric fireplaces do not require a separate room and do not emit combustion products, for the removal of which it is necessary to install a chimney.

An electric fireplace is capable of heating a room as the main heat source in accordance with its power ratings.

The disadvantage lies in the high power consumption, amounting to 2-2.5 W per hour in active mode. It is mandatory to install modern wiring - old wiring may not withstand the voltage and cause a fire. The fireplace dries the air and “burns” oxygen.

If you still want to get a fireplace, but the electric option is not suitable for you, we recommend that you pay attention to biofuel fireplaces.

Type #6 - infrared heater

Infrared options are considered a new generation of technology and differ from fireplaces and oil radiators by a different operating principle. Their action is aimed at objects in the room.

IR heating devices do not heat the air mass, but objects that transfer it to the surrounding space.

Devices are produced in the form of traditional heaters, ceiling panels, film systems for installation under floor coverings or wall decoration. Detailed analysis of models and tips for choosing IR heaters are given here.

They can be used as the main source of heat and as an auxiliary one. Artificial infrared radiation is the closest in spectrum to natural light.

However, it should not be taken as a natural source of heat. In itself, it is not harmful, but if you stay under a ceiling heater for a long time, for example, you can get a heat stroke identical to that of the sun.

The radiation of infrared heaters can be zoned. They are suitable for installation in open areas and can be used in greenhouses and winter gardens

Advantages of infrared heaters:

• Long-term work. There are no parts in IR heaters that can periodically burn out or gradually wear out. Elements damaged mechanically can be easily replaced.
• Economical installation. Or installation related to film systems. All construction and installation work is carried out without problems at an operational pace.
• Fast heating. Infrared heaters are not characterized by inertia; they quickly warm up areas and rooms.
• Possibility of zone heating. The activity of devices can be focused on a specific area or group of objects.
• Ability to work in open areas. They can be used to heat open spaces: terraces, sports fields, etc.
• Silence. Appliances and film heating systems operate without making sounds.
• Preservation of air humidity. IR equipment does not heat up and, as a result, does not dry the air. Its operation does not worsen the indoor microclimate.

The list of disadvantages includes energy dependence. This means that if used as the main heat source, it is necessary to consider a backup power supply device.

Not everyone is satisfied with the backlight of the control panel, which operates continuously while the heaters are operating. To protect against energy surges and current leaks, you will have to purchase expensive automation.

Installing an infrared heater on the ceiling eliminates the need for heated floors

This device is suitable for heating log houses, as it warms up wooden walls well and does not require design documentation for installation. In addition, energy savings are significant, compared to other electric heaters - 6-7 times.

One of the varieties of infrared heating devices is a carbon heater equipped with an element of the same name. We recommend that you look at our other article with a detailed overview of the species infrared carbon heater and recommendations for selection.

A carbon heater, by analogy with all types of infrared, works on the principle of long-wave radiation - it heats bodies and objects, not air

Type #7 - monolithic quartz heaters

According to the principle of operation, the quartz monolithic group belongs to convector type heaters. The device is simple: it is a panel made of a molten mixture of quartz sand with a small amount of marble chips.

Inside the panel there is a spiral-shaped heating element that can heat up to 120 °C. The spiral transfers thermal energy to the inert quartz body, as a result the device heats up only to 95 °C.

The quartz case works on the principle of wood - it retains accumulated heat for a long time. The use of this category of devices will help you save money, because... the units do not have to work constantly.

The body of a monolithic quartz heater accumulates heat and then gradually releases it to the cooled air

Advantages of heaters with a monolithic quartz body:

• Economical energy consumption. Cost reduction is achieved due to the ability of the housing to accumulate and slowly release heat.
• Easy to install. The installation will be completed by an inexperienced person acting in accordance with the instructions supplied by the manufacturer.
• Does not dry out the air. The heater enclosed in a monolithic housing does not affect the microclimate. For the same reason, it does not burn dust and does not emit unpleasant odors.
• Suitable for wet rooms. The sealed housing protects the spiral from contact with splashes and damp environments.
• Safety. The body never heats up to critical temperatures that promote fire and cause burns.

Monolithic modifications are equipped with thermostats that control the operation of devices. When leaving, for example, from the dacha at the end of the season, the units can be set to a minimum temperature of + 95 °C.

The cost of the devices is low, but their weight is quite impressive. Also, not everyone likes the appearance of the heater, but the ability to install special replacement panels of any color eliminates this problem. This type of heater is the best option for heating an apartment or private house.

We invite you to view our detailed guide to choosing a quartz heater for home and garden.

Type #8 - halogen devices

The difference between halogen heaters and infrared heaters is a special heating element. It consists of a tube filled with an inert gas with a tungsten filament inside. The gas prevents the destruction of the tungsten filament, chemical reactions within the tube are excluded.

Otherwise, the operating principle of halogen devices is similar to the operation of infrared heaters.

Pros of halogen lamps:

• Saving. Reduced energy consumption compared to electric fireplaces or oil radiators.
• Mobility. Floor heaters can be installed in different places that require increased heating.
• Fast heating. Provided with design features of the working element of the unit.

Most models have rotating mechanisms that allow you to direct the heat flow in the required direction.

Halogen heaters are equipped with control systems and devices that turn off the device in the event of a fall or overheating

Disadvantages include the light supplied by the device being too bright. It is harsh and unpleasant, especially at night.the second disadvantage is that the tube is too fragile, which will have to be changed periodically.

Many also noted that it is difficult to heat the entire room with halogen lamps and achieve the desired temperature in it. The heater heats only within the limits of direct action.

Type #9 - micathermic heaters

Despite the relatively small size, the micathermic type of devices is pleased with its high efficiency. This new product on the market of heat-generating units has already made a worthy statement, but consumers are still wary of it.

They do not dry out the air during a fairly fast and efficient heating process.

The heating element, created using Micatherm technology, is a kind of sandwich assembled from two layers of mica with a nickel mesh between them.

Heating is carried out by the mesh, and mica is responsible for temperature balance and mechanical strength.The devices combine the heating principles of convectors and infrared systems.

Convincing advantages of micathermic heating devices:

• Reduced energy consumption.Electricity consumption is 25% less compared to conventional heaters.
• Maintains humidity levels. An additional plus is that the units do not burn oxygen like many types of electrical appliances.
• Safety. The risk of burns and fires is structurally excluded.

It is not recommended to dry laundry on a micathermic heater; if necessary, cover it with a cloth. This may cause the unit to break down.

The design and low weight of the micathermic element allows it to quickly heat up and quickly reach operating temperature

However, the device is not suitable for the role of the only heat source in a living room, but will be a good addition for emergency heating of a certain area.

Are you still undecided whether this type of heater is right for you? We advise you to familiarize yourself with a detailed analysis of the pros and cons, as well as features choosing a micathermic heater.

Type #10 - heat guns

When wondering how to choose the best heater for an apartment or private home, many people pay attention to heat guns. Such a unit will perfectly cope with the role of the only source of heat in a country house.

The devices are arranged without any special fuss. A fan inside the housing supplies air to the heating element, distributing the flow into the room. The thermostat regulates the operation of the device, preventing it from overheating.

What are the advantages of using a heat gun:

• Mobility. The device can be easily moved from place to place.
• Speed ​​and efficiency of work. The unit is able to quickly heat a large area. It is used for heating large areas; in construction it is used as equipment that provides conditions for drying monolithic structures and for work.
• Performance. Can serve as the only source of heat if there is no alternative.

Before using a heat gun, you need to make sure that the electrical wiring can withstand such a load. Houses with old wiring are not suitable for heating with such an element due to the high probability of fire.

Heat guns are universal: suitable for heating large areas, used during construction for drying monolithic structures or finishing

True, a heat gun consumes a lot of energy. Most models are connected to a three-phase industrial network. When using such powerful equipment, it will be necessary to install protective automation.

Modernization of heating devices brings to the attention of consumers new items that are used for their intended purpose and also serve as unusual decor in the interior.

Have you decided to purchase this type of heater? We recommend that you familiarize yourself with the criteria choosing a heat gun.

Recommendations for choosing a heater type

So, for stationary heating of a room, you can safely choose an electric fireplace or a heat gun as the main heat source of a private building.

It is first necessary to carry out all calculations of the power and area of ​​the room. All other models are suitable as a source of additional heat or a means for emergency spot heating of certain areas.

A thermal curtain is suitable for equipping the entrance to a country mansion if its residents actively move from the street to the house or vice versa.

As sources of additional heat in case of a centralized network failure or insufficiently high temperature in the home, we recommend purchasing convenient oil mobile radiators, convectors or safe infrared and macothermal systems.

In case of prompt injection of warm air in different rooms, we recommend purchasing a portable fan heater.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

Comparative overview of heating options:

Details about the selection rules and features of convectors:

Specifics of operation of infrared heaters

Knowing how to choose a heater for an apartment or house, you can save yourself from the inconvenience associated with an unsuccessful selection of heat-generating devices - high electricity consumption, excessive noise or light, and the inability to warm up the room completely.

Still can't decide on the right type of heater for your home or apartment? Perhaps you still have questions after reading our article? Ask them in the comments block and we’ll figure it out together.

Or are you already a happy owner of a heater? Tell us what type of heating device you preferred and are you satisfied with its performance? Did our reviews and tips help you? Leave your comments and add a photo of your heater under this article.