Some home features that can help warm up a room are heat-retaining blinds and reversible ceiling fans that redistribute hot air. For something more stylish, a thick woolly throw can make a cosy couch companion in the evening, or can be just as easily draped over the bed for extra warmth.
While all these simple changes can make a difference, the key to a well heated space (and a low electricity bill), comes down to choosing the right heater.
Types of portable heaters
There are several types of portable heaters: radiant, oil-filled column heaters, convection (panel), and fan heaters.
Convection heaters are highly efficient for bigger spaces and provide an even distribution of heat but might take some time to heat up. Oil column heaters are reliable but take their time too, they're also quite heavy making them hard to move around the home.
Fan heaters are a popular choice because they're budget-friendly, but unfortunately are quite noisy. However, more upmarket models such as Dyson's Hot + Cool fan heater have moved the blades into the base of the appliance, eliminating the noise. Lastly, radiant heaters can heat up a space quickly but have many safety concerns and are a fire risk.
What is the cost of heating with a portable electric heater?
Choice ran a study comparing a fan, oil and panel heater in prices and found that oil heaters are the cheapest to run at $0.51 cost per hour, followed by panel heaters at $0.60 and then fans at $0.63. Over a three-month winter period, they averaged that oil heaters will cost $223, panels $264 and fans $278.
You can also calculate the cost yourself by multiplying the input power in kW by the price of your electricity per kWh to get a rough figure. Most heaters display the wattage under technical specifications. However, calculations will depend on the area being heated and how well insulated your home is, among other things.
7 best energy-efficient portable electric heaters in Australia
Dyson hot + cool purifier, $788 (usually $999), Dyson
While you probably don't want to drop such a hefty amount on one product, the Dyson Hot + Cool fan heater has thousands of five star reviews to testify that it's worth the price tag. This appliance cools in summer and heats in winter so you you can get year-round usage. Plus, it's currently $211 cheaper as part of the Dyson Week sale.
Delonghi 2400W Convection Heater, $159, The Good Guys
Convection heaters are a popular choice given their long list of features, and this slim and stylish heater does not disappoint. It has a timer, three heat settings, ergonomic rotary switches and anti-frost functions. It also has the option to be wall-mounted.
DeLonghi 2400W Dragon 4 oil column heater, $369, Myer
This oil heater comes with three heat settings and a 24-hour timer in case you need to leave it on well into the night.
DeLonghi tower ceramic fan heater, $228, Amazon
Featuring three power settings, a digital 24-hour timer, eco-function, silent technology and a sleek, compact design, this is an energy-efficient heater you'll want to keep on display.
Kambrook white ceramic tower heater, $189, The Good Guys
This white, portable heater will blend easily into your modern décor. While it's good for direct immediate heat, you can also set a timer and let it slowly warm up your whole room.
Heller black tower fan heater, $179, Temple and Webster
This sleek remote-controlled heater comes with a mesmerising flame effect coupled with an oscillating fan to ensure warmth reaches every corner of your room.
Goldair oscillating fan heater $59, Big W
This compact heater will get you warm quickly and is small enough to fit under your desk so you can keep your feet toasty while you work from home.
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