Today I Discovered: Slash Your Energy Bill by Using Your AC and Fan Together

<p> <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1BdXDa" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1BdXDa.jpg"/> </p> <p> Summer’s here once more. If there’s one thing we Filipinos are all too familiar with, it’s the relentless heat. By now you’re likely bouncing between using the air conditioner and the fan, taking great care to minimize AC use, unless you want a scary Meralco bill to greet you next month. </p> <p> But did you know that there is a scientifically backed way to stay cool without jacking up your electricity bill? A study by the University of California, Berkeley found that hybrid cooling—or using a fan along with an air conditioner set at a slightly higher temperature—reduces energy consumption by over 30 percent without compromising comfort. </p> <p> The study , conducted in Singapore by the Berkeley Education Alliance for Research in Singapore, involved testing two setups: one with air conditioning set to 24 degrees Celsius without fans, and another with the AC set at 26.5 degrees Celsius paired with ceiling and desk fans. The results, needless to say, were eye-opening. Not only did participants feel just as comfortable in both scenarios, but the hybrid cooling setup consumed significantly less energy. </p> <p> This 2023 study was shared by one of the researchers Professor Stefano Schiavon during the first Global Heat Health Information Network (GHHIN) Southeast Asia Heat Health Forum which took place last January 7 to 10, 2025 in Singapore. During the GHHIN forum, experts gathered to discuss how our health, livelihood, and overall well-being are affected by rising temperatures all over the region and the rest of the world. </p> <h2> How the Hybrid Cooling Hack Works </h2> <p> The secret behind hybrid cooling is simple: air movement makes a huge difference. Fans help accelerate sweat evaporation—cue instant relief. According to the study, here’s what you have to do: </p> <ul> <li> Set your air conditioner to 26.5 degrees Celsius instead of 24 degrees Celsius (or higher). </li> </ul> <ul> <li> Turn on a ceiling, stand, or desk fan to circulate the indoor air. </li> </ul> <p> It’s that simple and you’ll be just as comfortable as when you just used AC alone—but this time, you saved energy. Professor Schiavon said, "We achieved a remarkable 32 percent reduction in energy consumption without compromising thermal comfort." </p> <p> It’s important to keep in mind, however, that fans don’t work in all situations. University of Sydney Professor Ollie Jay emphasized during the GHHIN forum that fans are effective, cooling equipment in hot and humid climates up to 38 degrees Celsius. But in hot, dry places where temperatures play around 45 degrees Celsius, fans can actually increase heat by triple the rate. </p> <p> "In dry conditions, a person does not sweat, and blowing hot air on the skin would make him feel hotter, increasing strain on the heart as well," the GHHIN report said. </p> <p> <strong> ALSO READ </strong> </p> <p> <strong> Today I Learned: Living in Extremely Hot Cities May Be Speeding Up Your Aging Process </strong> </p> <p> <strong> Heat Index Watch: Is It Time For the Philippines to Declare a National State of Calamity? </strong> </p> <h2> Stay Cool, It’s a Must </h2> <p> If you're not sensing it yet, the extreme temperatures in the Philippines have climbed to hazardous heights. This March, many cities were compelled to cancel classes due to the soaring mercury. Even though PAGASA optimistically notes that this year’s dry season might be more favorable compared to last year, spokesperson and assistant weather services chief Ana Liza Solis cautions that elevated heat indexes remain possible. </p> <p> "Possibly we might experience high heat indices reaching up to 48 degrees Celsius or even 50 degrees Celsius, with our forecasted maximum daytime temperatures expected to rise as we approach the end of April or the first week of May," she stated. </p> <p> Although those of us in Southeast Asia are quite familiar with hot weather, we must stay alert regarding its impact on our well-being. Last year between January 1 and April 29 in the Philippines, more than 70 cases related to extreme heat were documented, leading to at least seven deaths. Besides causing unease, extended periods of warmth or high temps may result in severe conditions such as heatstroke, heat exhaustion, and various critical health problems. </p> <p> Apart from the immediate health effects caused by high temperatures, these temperature levels also influence the functioning of your entire bodily systems. World Health Organization (WHO) As stated on their website, "When the body exerts effort to cool down, it puts stress not only on the overall system but specifically on the heart and kidneys. Consequently, extreme heat can exacerbate the health hazards associated with long-term ailments such as cardiovascular diseases, mental disorders, respiratory issues, and diabetes-related complications, and may lead to acute kidney damage." </p> <h2> Heat Safety Tips </h2> <p> The WHO provides several recommendations on its website to protect people from extreme heat. One is to stay out of the heat as much as possible. Avoid the outdoors and doing strenuous activities, especially when temperatures are at their highest. If you do have to be outside, stay in the shade and, if possible, spend at least two hours during the daytime in a cool place. </p> <p> If you are not using an air conditioner at night, the WHO advises people to cool indoor temperatures in their homes by opening the windows. During the day, however, close them and cover them using shutters, blinds, or blackout curtains. Again, they emphasize that fans are only useful when temperatures are 40 degrees Celsius and below. If the temperatures are 41 degrees Celsius and above, fans will have the opposite effect on the body. </p> <p> The WHO also recommends wearing lightweight, breathable clothing (this includes bedding and similar items). You can stay cool by taking refreshing baths or showers, or by dabbing your skin with a wet cloth or misting yourself with water to lower your body temperature rapidly. </p> <p> Parked vehicles are particularly dangerous. Be sure to never leave behind children or animals inside the cars. Regarding infants, the WHO emphasizes that you should never cover a stroller with a dry fabric. While you may intend to shield them from the sun and hot air, doing so would actually make it even hotter inside the carriage. They advise using a wet, thin cloth instead, re-wetting as necessary. This is best used combination with a portable fan. </p> <h2> Would You Try the Hack? </h2> <p> As temperatures continue to rise and energy costs remain high, hybrid cooling is a simple yet cost-effective way to stay comfortable. However, various factors that could contribute to this method not working for your home such as higher-than-normal temperatures. Plus, there are others who advocate keeping your AC on 24 hours a day , saying that it is more economical to keep your home at a constant cool temperature rather than turning the AC unit on and off intermittently. Ultimately, different techniques and equipment may suit different needs. It's worthwhile to experiment with various cooling methods to determine what works best for your health, comfort, and budget. </p>

Today I Discovered: Slash Your Energy Bill by Using Your AC and Fan Together

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Summer’s here once more. If there’s one thing we Filipinos are all too familiar with, it’s the relentless heat. By now you’re likely bouncing between using the air conditioner and the fan, taking …

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Top Electric Heaters for UK Homes: Radiators, Fan Heaters, Convection & Halogen Lamps Reviewed

<p> When the mercury falls below freezing, pulling on yet <em> another </em> jumper will only get you so far. </p> <p> Yet cranking up the thermostat will no doubt do serious damage to your bank balance.  So, what to do? </p> <p> The answer? An electric heater, which can be more cost- and energy-efficient for a temporary fix, or when your main heat source isn't quite cutting it. </p> <p> They’re not just for home use. Shop wisely and a portable heater can warm those awkward spots that don’t have readily available heat: think a conservatory, shed or caravan. If you’re one of those folks who always feels a chill, a personal heater can help avert thermostat temperature wars with the rest of your household by offering localised heating directly to you instead. </p> <p> For dual-purpose warming, it's worth considering getting a <strong> heated clothes airer </strong> . While most models don’t have enough power to heat a whole room, they will keep your clothes off radiators, drying them as effectively as a tumble dryer minus the costly running expenses. </p> <p> Before we dive into our roundup of the best personal heaters, think first about your needs and the space you need to heat. </p> <p> A fan or halogen heater is likely to be sufficient for most small spaces, while larger, loftier rooms will probably benefit best from a radiator heater. </p> <h3> <strong> Fan Heaters </strong> </h3> <p> Even if you’re shopping on a strict budget, there are plenty of heating options to keep you warm on frosty days. Ideal for anyone with a small space to warm, a fan heater rapidly billows heat into the room by propelling air across a heated part and blowing it out into the room. </p> <p> While a fan heater works quickly in making the room toasty, the flipside is once you switch it off the heat evaporates too. The fan element means some heaters can make quite a racket, which may not be such a thorn if you’re using it in a home office but would be a deciding factor if you want a heater to warm a room before bed. </p> <h3> <strong> Electric Radiators </strong> </h3> <p> Cousin of a traditional wall radiator, this freestanding version works in pretty much the same way – by heating an element such as water or oil in a metal structure which in turn radiates heat across the room. </p> <p> First, the pluses. They’re quiet and create long-lasting heat that won’t disappear the moment you turn off the power source. In fact, the slow cooling time means the radiator continues to produce heat without using energy which means you don’t need to have it on all day to stay warm. </p> <p> The downside is that these radiators also take longer to warm up, so you’ll need to think ahead and switch them on a good half an hour before to feel the benefits. Luckily many models come with built-in timers so you can set them to switch on when you need them to. </p> <h3> <strong> Convection Heaters </strong> </h3> <p> Also working similarly, convection heaters work by directing hot air through the radiator and then circulating it throughout the room, although the heat given off is not as far reaching – you’ll notice if you step out of the direct line of heat. </p> <p> Where can you use a convection heater? It will earn its keep with small groups, but it isn’t the most sensible option for families or spacious rooms. The cons of a convection heater is the circulated air can be an issue for allergy sufferers or anyone sensitive to dust. The upshot is they’re cheaper to operate and can heat a room faster. </p> <h3> <strong> Halogen Heaters </strong> </h3> <p> Finally, meet the halogen heater - you might have encountered the motion-detected versions outside pubs. They work by warming filaments which then give off heat and they’re ideal for anyone planning outdoor events or if you’re working outside. The negative? You can only really feel its warmth if you’re directly in front of it, which stands to reason if you’re using them in the open air. </p> <h2> <strong> <em> The ES Best Electric Heater Guide 2025 </em> </strong> </h2> <p> This guide is split up into the following sections: </p> <ul> <li> <strong> Fan Heaters </strong> </li> <li> <strong> Radiators </strong> </li> <li> <strong> Convection Heaters </strong> </li> <li> <strong> Halogen Heaters </strong> </li> </ul> <p> <em> See the best options below </em> </p> <h2> Best fan heaters </h2> <p> <strong> Best for: </strong> A quick warming fix </p> <h2> Dyson Purifier Hot+Cool™ Formaldehyde purifying fan heater </h2> <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1AW6eu" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1AW6eu.jpg"/> <p> One of Dyson’s bestselling fan heaters, this design may be on the pricier side, but when you consider that winter sometimes lasts well into April here in the UK, it’s a sound investment against whatever the conditions lay beyond your front door. </p> <p> Not only does this bladeless gadget flood hot or cold air into the room, but it will purify and scrub it clean of 99.95 per cent miniscule formaldehyde particles (dislodged from old furniture or wallpaper ) too. </p> <p> As you’d expect, it boasts world-class Dyson tech, such as Air Multiplier technology that evenly propels air all while operating at country mouse-like noise levels. It can warm or cool a room incredibly quickly, so you won’t need it switched on for very long. The best thing about this heater is that it’s blade-free, making it ideal for anyone with curious pets or infants in the house. </p> <p> Comes with a two-year guarantee. </p> <p> Buy now £599.00, Boots </p> <h2> Duux Threesixty 2 Smart Fan Heater </h2> <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1jFoww" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1jFoww.jpg"/> <ul> <li> <strong> Dimensions: </strong> H29.50 x W21.50 x D21.50cm </li> <li> <strong> Power: </strong> 1800W </li> <li> <strong> Smart: </strong> yes, control via app </li> <li> <strong> Guarantee: </strong> 2 years included </li> </ul> <p> A machine with figurative firepower, the Duux ThreeSixty is a great smart heater designed to warm up small and medium-sized rooms quickly and efficiently. </p> <p> Cylindrical in design, it uses a fan to cascade heat from the top, flooding the room with warmth to keep you in blissful toastiness. There's no worry about having it on while you're working or watching TV; it has a Quiet Mark accreditation which means you'll barely notice it when it's on. </p> <p> The Dutch-made device is a sturdy little thing that's available in a choice of white or grey, but still features a tip-over safety switch in case of accidental knocks, and auto shut-down in case it overheats. Control three heat settings on the unit or via a smartphone app. </p> <p> We've found using it for a few hours in the evening is enough to keep the room cosy all night long. A smart winter investment in more ways than one. </p> <p> Buy now £75.00, Amazon </p> <h2> Pro Breeze 2000W Mini Ceramic Fan Heater </h2> <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1jFowQ" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1jFowQ.jpg"/> <ul> <li> <strong> Dimensions: </strong> H18.5 x W26 x D15.5cm </li> <li> <strong> Power: </strong> 2000W </li> <li> <strong> Smart: </strong> no </li> <li> <strong> Guarantee: </strong> n/a </li> </ul> <p> Pro Breeze 2000w is one of the highest-rated fan heaters on Amazon, it does what it says and looks good doing it too - but let’s get down to the specifics. </p> <p> The ceramic heating element helps create faster and stronger heat and unlike many static fan heaters, the Pro Breeze offers 60 degrees of oscillation. </p> <p> It measures 18.5 x 15.5 x 26 cm, so while it is bigger than your average mini fan heater it’s still smaller compared to its peers. If you have a small flat and need something in equal parts powerful, petite and energy-efficient, this is the fan heater to buy. </p> <p> Safety features include built-in overheat protection and an automatic anti-tip-over switch. </p> <p> Was: £44.99 </p> <p> Buy now £29.99, Amazon </p> <h2> Russell Hobbs RHRETPTC2001 Retro Fan Heater - Black </h2> <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1mLkfo" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1mLkfo.jpg"/> <p> <strong> Best for: </strong> old-school appeal </p> <p> Vintage vibes reign supreme with Russell Hobbs’ cute little heater, which offers two heat settings so you can use it as a fan in the summer too. </p> <p> Set on short legs, this fan heater operates at a powerful 1500W output and has an adjustable thermostat. There is a safety overheat and a tip-over switch that will cut the power if the heater gets knocked over or too hot - handy if you have curious pets or toddlers around. It’s perfect for providing localised heat, like your WFH desk or positioned by your feet when you’re watching telly. </p> <p> Works most effectively on spaces measuring 15 m². </p> <p> Was: £39.99 </p> <p> Buy now £24.99, Currys </p> <h2> De'Longhi 1.8kW Ceramic Capsule Fan Heater </h2> <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1mLkfq" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1mLkfq.jpg"/> <p> A stylish option for those looking for a quick fix. Weighting just 1.3kg and standing at roughly 27cm, this ceramic fan heater comes complete with a safety cut-out switch to prevent overheating. </p> <p> The compact shape and gently rounded edges are a welcome departure from the standard rectangle while the contrasting loop handle makes it very easy to move from one room to another. A good job, because this little heater is destined to be your cold weather BFF. </p> <p> Buy now £44.98, Amazon </p> <h2> Best Mini Fan Heaters </h2> <p> <strong> Best for: </strong> smaller rooms or areas where you’ll be seated - like a lounge or home office. </p> <h2> De'Longhi Capsule Desk fan heater </h2> <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1AWhBI" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1AWhBI.jpg"/> <p> <strong> Best for: </strong> personalised heat </p> <p> Create your own micro-climate while working from home or relaxing in bed with a De’Longhi Capsule Desk fan heater. The 360W machine uses 5.5 times less energy and operates quietly in the background at 39dBs so you won't even notice it's on. </p> <p> The compact design comes with a carry handle, so you can move it around easily, keeping your personal cloud of heat exactly where you want it. </p> <p> Buy now £31.99, John Lewis </p> <h2> De'Longhi Capsule Fit heater in grey </h2> <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1mLf6R" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1mLf6R.jpg"/> <p> <strong> Best for: </strong> portability </p> <p> Make room for this unique-looking heater from De’Longhi, which can be positioned both vertically or horizontally allowing you to heat your space more efficiently. The 2400W device fan heater works quickly to bring temperatures up to a comfortable level, helped along by three fan settings. </p> <p> There's also a small carry loop at the back to help you move it around your home with ease. </p> <p> Buy now £59.99, De'Longhi </p> <h2> Pro Breeze Mini Heater </h2> <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1mL3tQ" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1mL3tQ.jpg"/> <p> <strong> Best for: </strong> quiet operation </p> <p> As far as personal fan heaters go, this triangular design ticks all the boxes. It uses ceramics to push out heat efficiently enough to keep your immediate area warm, it’s not powerful enough to heat an entire room but, if you forever have cold feet or want to make a small space like a camper van cost, this compact fan is ideal. </p> <p> It has the safety tip-over switch, temperature control and portability of the other heater fans on our list, but at a snip of the cost. Operating noise is as quiet as a mouse too. A brilliant bargain buy. </p> <p> Buy now £20.99, Amazon </p> <h2> Best Radiators </h2> <p> <strong> Best for: </strong> Big spaces, allergy sensitivities, soundless. </p> <p> Find the full list of the best oil-filled radiators here . </p> <h2> AENO Premium Eco Smart Heater </h2> <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1AW6eC" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1AW6eC.jpg"/> <p> <strong> Best for: </strong> Infrared intelligence </p> <p> Taking a wholly different approach to intelligent home heating, imagine having all the epic convenience of a smart thermostat radiator system that’s not only eco-friendly but also can be moved from room to room, thus only heating the room you need, while also using infrared to keep it as cost-efficient as can be possible. Embrace the ingenuity of the AENO Premium Eco Smart Heater. </p> <p> An advanced panel heater with a built-in smart thermostat and both hard button and app application, this undeniably slick-looking, slim, minimalist-effect glass sheet provides plug-and-play heating in moments, wasting none of that precious warmth to the air by using a unique, techie technique that leaves conventional radiators out in the cold. </p> <p> Compared to those chunky rads of lore, the AENO uses a winning combination of infrared radiant heating and convection to warm, not the air in a room as you’d expect, but the actual objects therein, such as furniture and humans, thus warming without losing heat to the ether, thereby converting almost all energy used to energy- and cost-saving heat, distributed evenly throughout. </p> <p> With controls built into a small panel on the super-slim (11mm) side for On/Off and temp settings, the AENO app means you can also command full control over all settings remotely, turning it on and off, setting timers and setting thermostat temperature with a few prods of a smartphone screen. </p> <p> What’s more, the AENO can be used floor-standing (legs included) or wall-mounted both horizontally and vertically for full-on flexibility. </p> <p> <strong> Testing temps </strong> </p> <p> Now, my house is old. Built around 1870, detached, with all-brick walls and high ceilings, the gas central heating struggles to reach all corners of our rooms before heading way above our heads, making for perfect domestic testing conditions for the AENO. So, out of the box, legs screwed in, app downloaded, pairing done – all sorted within minutes; surely it can’t be that simple? </p> <p> The thermostat has a range that goes from 0°C (useless) all the way up to a staggering 40°C which is, to put it on a less scientific scale, hotter than Death Valley, Burkina Faso and, of course, Hell itself. These extremes may seem a little pointless and, indeed, for the most part, they are, but it does give you a decidedly wide expanse of temperatures to choose from in between. </p> <p> Meanwhile, back at me and the probably-haunted confines of our vaguely mid-Victorian digs, the heat from the AENO was almost immediately obvious as it quickly brought itself up to the selected not-surface-of-the-sun temperature, which was impressive in itself. Then, once the desired °C was achieved, that warmth rapidly spread throughout the towering confines of our suitably sized lounge, literally warming the cockles of everyone in there through the magic of infrared radiation. Yes, it was that simple. Yes, we were finally free from having to start small fires around the room just to keep Jack Frost’s frozen hand of death. </p> <p> Operating with up to 60 percent greater efficiency compared to traditional heating systems, the AENO represents a breakthrough in intelligent, eco-friendly residential warming. It maintains comfort levels effectively whilst preventing dust from circulating, making it ideal for those prone to allergies. Additionally, it eliminates the conditions conducive to dampness and mold growth, ensuring a healthier living environment. </p> <p> The AENO Premium Eco Smart Heater includes a fall/tilt sensor that ensures automatic shut-off if knocked over by a child or pet, making it an innovative solution for managing home and office heating costs. However, expect extremely high temperatures when in use; the panel’s surface heat corresponds directly with the displayed setting. While ideal for environments where access to children and pets can be managed, it may not be suitable for more public spaces. </p> <p> Buy now £159.00, Currys </p> <h2> ANSIO 2300W Oil-Filled Radiator Heater </h2> <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1AWjYR" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1AWjYR.jpg"/> <p> The Ansio 2300 stands out as an excellent choice for domestic heating due to several features: it offers three distinct power levels—Low Power at 1000 watts, Medium Power at 1300 watts, and High Power at 2300 watts. Its portability makes it convenient to use around the house, and it comes with a useful child lock feature that prevents accidental button presses on the control panel. </p> <p> The remote control proves to be surprisingly handy: snuggling up beneath the blankets without having to leave your bed to adjust the heating adds a touch of magical charm to wintertime. </p> <p> The device features a functional timer option that allows you to set durations between one hour and 24 hours for activating or deactivating the heater. Additionally, there’s an Eco Mode designed to assist with conserving energy. </p> <p> Regarding safety concerns, this model checks all the crucial boxes. It features a stability cutoff switch at the bottom, and should the heater’s temperature rise excessively—potentially due to additional heating sources in the area—the built-in thermostat will shut it down automatically. </p> <p> Buy now £64.95, Amazon </p> <h2> PureMate Oil Filled Radiator </h2> <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1kAXnz" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1kAXnz.jpg"/> <p> <strong> Best for: </strong> including an integrated 24-hour timer </p> <p> With a whopping 2500W to call on, this 11-fin oil-filled radiator’s USP is that it heats up quickly and has a 24-hour built-in timer, so you can set it to come up shortly before the alarm is due to go off, meaning your bedroom will be warm by the time you need to rise. It’s just 21cm deep, so it doesn’t take up much room, but still gives off a belting when it comes to making things balmy. There’s a 1.5 metre power cable, three variable heat settings, tip-over shut-off for safety and it’s on wheels for easy positioning. A good choice for a good-sized room. </p> <p> Buy now £70.65, Amazon </p> <h2> VonHaus Portable Oil Filled Radiator 2000W - Black </h2> <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1qHCDo" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1qHCDo.jpg"/> <p> <strong> Best for: </strong> quick and efficient heating </p> <p> This little guy costs just 27p an hour to run and has a 1.5m cable, which means it doesn’t have to be all that close to a power source. It weighs 8kg, so it’s easy enough to move about and take the chill off a smaller room. </p> <p> It features an adjustable thermostat control dial and an overheat protection system, so you never have to worry about things getting out of hand heat-wise. This is the one for your small office or the bathroom without a radiator. </p> <p> If it’s the ballroom you’re hoping to heat, go for a bigger model, but for little spaces without a lot of wiggle room, this is your go-to. </p> <p> Buy now £47.99, VonHaus </p> <h2> De'Longhi TRNS0505M Nano S Oil Filled Radiator </h2> <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1AWfCQ" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1AWfCQ.jpg"/> <p> Small and compact, this curved radiator from De’Longhi is ideal for when you want heat quickly. It comes with anti-frost protection which automatically turns the heater on if the temperature falls below 5 degrees and there’s also a overheat safety function, designed to keep you safe as well as warm. </p> <p> It’s not the kind of device we would recommend using in a poorly insulated space, such as a garden shed, but it will keep you nice and cosy while sheltering indoors from a blustery evening. Comes with a five-year guarantee. </p> <p> Buy now £69.21, Amazon </p> <h2> Best Convection Heaters </h2> <p> <strong> Best for: </strong> Fast heat for medium-sized rooms. </p> <h2> Igenix 2,000 Watt Portable Electric Convection Compact Heater </h2> <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1AWdrY" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1AWdrY.jpg"/> <p> Keep spaces where there’s no conventional heating warm with the help of this nifty little convection heater. It’s virtually silent and dispels gentle warming heat of 3W, adjustable through a trio of heat settings. There’s also an automatic switch off function which is triggered if the heater overheats, adding to a sense of safety. </p> <p> Buy now £22.99, Wayfair </p> <h2> De'Longhi 2kW Thermo Convector Heater </h2> <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1AWbkW" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1AWbkW.jpg"/> <p> The freestanding unit has a heat output of 2kW and features an adjustable room thermostat to help you find and maintain your desired temperature. </p> <p> We’re particularly impressed by its sleek appearance, which makes it a stylish addition to almost any modern space. There’s also three heat settings, a safety cut out switch and an anti-frost function for using in low temperatures. </p> <p> Was: £76.99 </p> <p> Buy now £44.99, Amazon </p> <h2> Best Halogen Heaters </h2> <p> <strong> Best for: </strong> Direct heat outdoors. </p> <h2> Outsunny 2100W Electric Patio Heater w/ Ceiling Hanging - Black </h2> <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1AWbkZ" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1AWbkZ.jpg"/> <p> Raising the style as well as the heat stakes, this vintage-look pendant heater from Outsunny is ideal for those with small gardens and patios they want to keep in use over the winter months. Measuring 48.5 x 36cm, it uses energy-saving halogen to diffuse heat and offer gentle lighting too. </p> <p> Buy now £71.99, Robert Dyas </p> <h2> Belfry Heating Hugo Electric Patio Heater </h2> <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1AWhBZ" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1AWhBZ.jpg"/> <p> Shaped like a fan, this three-arm halogen heater means evenings out in the garden are still on the agenda, even in the deepest midwinter. Mounted under your garden parasol, it uses infrared tech to keep you and your family warm within minutes. The arms fold down flat when not in use, so you don’t need to remove it when it’s time to fold away the parasol. Requires mains power. </p> <p> Buy now £89.99, Wayfair </p> <h2> <strong> Burning FAQs on all things electric heaters </strong> </h2> <p> <strong> How much electricity do heaters use? </strong> </p> <p> Several elements come into consideration when addressing this query. </p> <p> The size plays a significant role: bigger heaters tend to consume more power. Additionally, heat output matters; generating higher temperatures requires more energy. Furthermore, the kind of heater impacts your utility costs—with infrared models typically standing out for their efficiency in terms of energy use. </p> <p> The most effective method to monitor your electricity consumption is by employing a timer or preset programme. This ensures you don’t forget to switch it off and allows it to operate throughout the night without intervention. </p> <p> <strong> Is it okay to leave electric heaters running all night? </strong> </p> <p> To put it briefly, no. You should turn off electric heaters before going to sleep to minimize the risk of fire, despite having automatic shutoff features designed for such incidents as tipping over. </p> <p> If you're concerned about feeling chilly during the night, examine your bedroom setup and identify areas where you can add insulation or prevent cold air from seeping in. Consider making some investments in this area. high-tog winter duvet , bedspread , cosy PJs and draught excluders For your doors can retain the warmth indoors where it should be. </p> <p> <strong> For how long should you operate an electric radiator to warm up a room? </strong> </p> <p> It largely hinges on the dimensions of the space you're looking to warm, the current ambient temperature, and the device’s efficiency. Enhance your electric radiator's effectiveness by sealing off entryways such as doors and windows, and consider deploying multiple radiators to swiftly bring the area to a pleasant thermal level. Upon achieving your targeted temperature, turn off the heaters and bask in the delightful coziness. Certain models include an automatic function that senses drops in temperature and restarts operation to sustain optimal comfort conditions indefinitely. </p> <p> Sign up now for one of The Standard’s newsletters. Choose from a daily news update to insider views on Homes & Property, along with content covering lifestyle, events, special deals, and much more. To get the finest stories delivered directly to your mailbox, click. here . </p>

Top Electric Heaters for UK Homes: Radiators, Fan Heaters, Convection & Halogen Lamps Reviewed

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When the mercury falls below freezing, pulling on yet another jumper will only get you so far. Yet cranking up the thermostat will no doubt do serious damage to your bank balance.  So, what …

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