Electric Heating

Not sure which type of electric heating is right for your home? From choosing the right heat output to understanding running costs, controls and installation, these FAQs cover the main things worth knowing before you buy.

 

Can electric heating replace central heating?

Yes, it can. Electric radiators can be used to heat individual rooms or, with the right setup, several rooms around the home. They’re especially handy when you only want to warm the room you’re using rather than switch the central heating on everywhere.

If you’re planning to rely on electric heating more widely, make sure you choose enough power for each room. Things like room size, insulation and windows will all affect how much heat you need.

 

What's the difference between an electric radiator and a panel heater?

Both run on electricity, but they heat the room in slightly different ways. Electric radiators are a good choice for regular everyday heating and often come with more control options, while panel heaters are usually slimmer and work well when you want straightforward warmth in a particular room. If space is tight or you just need a bit of extra heat, a panel heater is a great option. If you want something you’ll use more regularly, an electric radiator will make the most sense.

 

What's the best electric heating for a bathroom?

Electric towel radiators and underfloor heating are both good options for bathrooms. A towel radiator warms the room and helps keep towels warm and dry, while electric underfloor heating gives you warmth from beneath the floor without taking up any wall space.

 

What size electric radiator or heater do I need?

The size you need depends on how much heat the room requires, not just the dimensions of the radiator itself. Room size, insulation, windows and external walls can all make a difference. Check the wattage or heat output of the heater before you buy. For more help working out how much heat your room needs, read our guide to calculating BTU.

 

Do electric heaters need to be hardwired?

Not always. Some electric heaters and radiators simply plug into a socket, while others need to be hardwired into the mains. It depends on the product and where it’s being fitted, especially in a bathroom. Always check the installation instructions first and use a qualified electrician where required.

 

What are thermostatic and smart electric heaters?

Thermostatic heaters help keep the room at the temperature you set by switching the heat on and off as needed. Smart heaters can add features such as schedules, Wi-Fi and app control, depending on the model. That can make it easier to control different rooms separately and only use the heating when you need it.

 

Is electric heating expensive to run?

Electric heating can be more expensive to run than gas central heating, particularly if you’re heating several rooms for long periods. The actual cost comes down to the heater’s wattage, your electricity rate and how long you use it.

As a simple example, a 1kW heater uses 1kWh of electricity if it runs at full power for an hour. So, if you pay 25p per kWh, that’s around 25p an hour. A 2kW heater would cost around 50p an hour at the same rate.

Thermostats, timers and smart controls can help by switching the heating off when the room reaches the temperature you want or only running it at the times you need it.

 

What's the difference between electric and dual fuel towel rails?

An electric towel radiator runs on electricity only, so you can use it without turning on the central heating. A dual fuel towel rail connects to your central heating but also has an electric element, giving you both options. That makes dual fuel particularly handy in warmer months, when you might want warm towels without heating the whole house.