Winter is here, and with it comes the need for a reliable source of heat. Electric heaters are an excellent choice for adding warmth to your home or office without the hassle of installing a central heating system. However, with so many options in the market, choosing the right electric heater can be overwhelming. That’s where Consumer Reports comes in! In this blog post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about electric heaters and provide you with Consumer Reports’ top-rated picks for 2021. So sit back, grab a cup of hot cocoa and let’s dive in!
Top 10 Electric Heaters
*Note: Score is based on our AI score (Editor’s choice and rating).
What Is Electrical Heater?
An electric heater is a device that converts electrical energy into heat. It uses an electrical resistor to produce heat, which is then dispersed throughout a room using various methods such as convection or radiation.
Electric heaters come in different shapes and sizes, from small portable units to larger models designed for permanent installation. Some of the most common types of electric heaters include baseboard heaters, wall-mounted heaters, space heaters, and radiant heaters.
One thing that sets electric heaters apart from other heating systems is their efficiency. Unlike gas-powered alternatives that can lose up to 30% of their energy through exhaust fumes, electric heaters convert all the electricity they use into heat.
Another benefit of using an electric heater is its ease of use. All you need to do is plug it in and turn it on! Plus, modern models often come with features like thermostats and timers for increased convenience.
Whether you’re looking to supplement your central heating system or simply warm up one room at a time, an electric heater can be an excellent choice for providing reliable warmth during those chilly winter months.
How Does Electrical Heater Work?
Electric heaters work by converting electrical energy into heat. They use an electric current to heat up a heating element, which then radiates warmth into the surrounding area.
The most common type of electric heater is the convection heater. Convection heaters work by warming up the air around them and creating a natural flow of warm air that circulates throughout the room. These types of heaters are great for larger rooms or spaces with high ceilings.
Another popular type of electric heater is the radiant heater. Radiant heaters use infrared radiation to directly warm objects and people in their path, rather than just heating up the surrounding air. This makes them ideal for small rooms or areas where you want instant warmth.
Oil-filled radiators are another type of electric heater commonly used in homes. These operate on a principle similar to convection heaters but instead use oil as a reservoir to retain heat, allowing them to keep emitting warmth even after they have been turned off.
Electric Heaters offer a convenient and efficient way to heat your home during colder months without relying on expensive fossil fuels like gas or oil.
The Different Types of Electrical Heater
When it comes to electrical heaters, there are several different types that you can choose from depending on your needs and preferences. Let’s take a closer look at each of these options.
1. Fan-forced Heaters: These heaters work by blowing air over heated coils or ceramic discs, creating hot air which is then distributed throughout the room via a fan. They tend to be affordable and efficient but can be quite noisy.
2. Radiant Heaters: These heaters use infrared radiation to heat objects in the surrounding area rather than heating the air directly. They’re great for spot heating and tend to be more energy-efficient than other types of electric heaters.
3. Oil-Filled Radiators: As their name suggests, these heaters are filled with oil which is heated via an electric element inside the unit. The oil then radiates heat out into the room slowly over time, providing gentle warmth without any noise or drafts.
4. Convection Heaters: These work by circulating warm air around a room using natural convection currents created as cool air sinks and warm air rises.
Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to consider factors such as noise level, efficiency, portability and safety features before making your choice!
Factors to Consider Before Buying Electrical Heater
Before purchasing an electric heater, it’s essential to consider some important factors. First, determine the size of your space and its insulation level. Electric heaters come in different sizes, heating capacities, and energy efficiency levels.
Another factor to consider is the cost of operation. Look for heaters with high Energy Star ratings as they consume less power and are more efficient. You can also check their wattage rating so you can estimate your electricity bill before buying.
Next, think about how easy it is to use and maintain the heater. Consider if it has user-friendly controls or a remote control option that allows you to adjust the temperature without getting up from your seat. Also look into cleaning requirements such as filters that need replacement or dust buildup on heating elements.
Safety features should be taken into account too when selecting an electric heater including built-in safety switches which automatically turn off the device if it overheats or tips over accidentally.
Read reviews and Consumer Reports electric heater ratings before making a purchase so you can get feedback on durability and reliability from other users who have already used them long-term in their homes or office spaces.
Benefits of Using Electrical Heater
There are several benefits of using an electric heater instead of other types of heating solutions. Firstly, electric heaters are much more energy-efficient than gas or oil heating systems because they convert nearly all of the electricity they use into heat. This means that you’ll save money on your energy bills in the long run.
Another advantage is that electric heaters require very little maintenance and do not produce any harmful emissions like carbon monoxide or nitrogen dioxide. They’re also much safer to use since there’s no risk of a gas leak or fire caused by open flames.
Electric heaters come in many different shapes and sizes, so you can easily find one that fits your needs and space requirements. You can choose from portable options like fan-forced heaters or baseboard models for permanent installation.
Electric heaters offer quick and efficient heating when compared to other methods such as wood stoves or central air systems which take longer to reach desired temperatures. Additionally, modern electrical units have programmable thermostats which allow precise temperature control for maximum comfort at minimum cost.
The Pros and Cons of Electrical Heater
Electrical heaters offer several advantages, including their affordability and ease of use. They are also highly efficient in converting electricity into heat, making them a cost-effective option for heating small spaces.
Another advantage of electrical heaters is that they require little maintenance. Unlike gas or oil-based heating systems, which require regular servicing to ensure optimal performance, electric heaters typically only need occasional cleaning to keep them functioning efficiently.
However, there are some downsides to using electrical heaters as well. One major disadvantage is that they can be expensive to run over long periods of time. This is especially true if you’re using an electric heater as your primary source of heat during the colder months.
Additionally, electric heaters can pose safety risks if not used correctly. For example, they should never be left unattended while in operation or placed near flammable materials.
While there are both pros and cons associated with electrical heaters, they remain a popular choice for many homeowners due to their convenience and ease of use.
Tips For Setting Up Your Electrical Heater
When it comes to setting up your electric heater, there are some tips you should keep in mind to ensure its optimal performance and safety. Firstly, always read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully before setting up your heater. This will give you important information about proper placement, usage and maintenance.
Next, choose a location that is safe for your heater. Keep it away from flammable materials such as curtains or papers, and make sure there is enough space around the unit for ventilation.
Always use a dedicated circuit when plugging in an electric heater. Avoid using extension cords or power strips which could overload the circuit and create fire hazards.
Before turning on your electric heater, inspect it for any damages such as frayed cords or broken elements. Never leave your electrical heating unattended while it’s turned on.
Finally yet importantly avoid using heaters in damp areas like bathrooms unless they’re designed explicitly for humid places; You don’t want to risk electrocution by combining water with electricity!
FAQs
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) are common in many industries, and the electric heater industry is no exception. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about electric heaters:
– Q: Can an electric heater save me money on my energy bill?
A: Yes! Electric heaters can be more efficient than central heating systems because they only heat the room you’re in instead of your whole house.
– Q: Are electric heaters safe to use indoors?
A: Yes, as long as you follow safety guidelines like not placing them near flammable materials or leaving them unattended.
– Q: What type of electrical outlet do I need for an electric heater?
A: Most portable electric heaters will work with a standard 120-volt outlet. However, larger models may require a dedicated circuit or higher voltage outlet.
– Q: How often should I clean my electric heater?
A: It’s recommended to clean your electric heater every few months to prevent dust buildup and maintain optimal performance.
It’s important to research and choose an appropriate model based on your needs before purchasing an electrical heater. Additionally, always read the manufacturer’s instructions and follow all safety precautions when using any electrical appliance.
Conclusion
By now, you should have a better understanding of electric heaters and the different factors to consider before making your purchase. Consumer Reports Electric Heater Ratings can help you narrow down your options and make an informed decision based on performance, safety, and energy efficiency.
Remember to choose an electric heater that is suitable for your needs, budget, and space requirements. Invest in quality products from reputable brands to ensure durability and longevity. With proper use and maintenance, an electric heater can be a valuable addition to your home or office during cold seasons.
Stay warm and comfortable with the best electric heater that suits you!
I’m Ella Andrews, owner of the website https://bestconsumerstips.com/
I give you valuable information about good products to help you choose the best product.