Finding the Cheapest Electric Heater to Run This Winter (March 2025 update)

Find the Cheapest Electric Heater to Run This Winter

This winter, staying warm without overspending is a priority for many households. Tubular heaters are the cheapest electric heater to run this winter, offering efficient heating at low operational costs. In this article, we'll explore various types of electric heaters—including halogen, oil-filled, fan, and tube heaters—comparing their energy consumption, performance, and unique features. We'll also discuss factors affecting running costs, such as wattage, energy efficiency and room size, helping you make an informed choice for your heating needs. Additionally, we’ll touch on safety considerations and the potential of renewable energy options. By the end, you'll have a clear understanding of which heater is the most economical for your home.

 

 

Factors Influencing the Running Costs of Electric Heaters

To identify the cheapest electric heater to run, consider the following factors:

 

● Wattage: Higher wattage means higher electricity consumption. Look for cheap-to-run electric heaters with adjustable settings to manage energy use effectively.

● Energy Efficiency: Check efficiency ratings and energy labels; higher efficiency translates to more heat output per unit of electricity consumed.

● Thermostat and Temperature Control: Heaters with thermostats help maintain a steady temperature, reducing energy waste.

● Room Size and Insulation: Ensure the heater's capacity matches the room size. Good insulation helps to retain warmth, minimising heating needs.

Usage Time: The longer and more frequently you use a heater, the higher the running costs. In short, occasional use is more economical.

 

The Best Methods for Heating a Room with Electricity

To find the best option for heating a room, it's essential to understand the different types of space heaters available. The main types include:

• Halogen Haters
• Oil-Filled Heaters
• Fan Heaters
• Tube Heaters

Halogen Heaters: Instant Warmth at a Low Cost

For instant warmth, a halogen heater is a good choice. These heaters use energy-efficient halogen bulbs to quickly provide radiant heat.

 

Advantages of Halogen Heaters:

• Ideal for small spaces
• Provides immediate warmth
• Focused heating
• Easy to install
• Environmentally friendly
• Silent operation
• Portable and lightweight

Disadvantages:

• Heat dissipates quickly when turned off
• Not suitable for large rooms
• Bulky for tight spaces
• Higher operational costs with continuous use

Cost of Running a Halogen Heater:

With an average output of 1200W and UK electricity costing 24.86p per kWh:

 

Output power: 1200W / 1000 = 1.2kWh

Cost per hour: 1.2kWh x 24.86p = 29.8p

Oil-Filled Heaters: Efficient and Long-Lasting Heat

Oil-filled heaters, or radiators, use oil to generate heat and maintain warmth longer than halogen heaters.

 

Advantages of Oil-Filled Heaters:

• Excellent heat retention
• Energy-efficient (retains warmth when off)
• Silent operation
• Low maintenance (sealed oil)
• Thermal cut-off for safety

Disadvantages:

• Slow to warm up
• Best for background warmth, not instant heating
• Heavy and bulky

Cost of Running an Oil-Filled Heater:

With a typical output of 1500W:

 

Power rating: 1500W / 1000 = 1.5kW

Cost per hour: 1.5kW x 24.86p = 37.3p

 

 

Electric Fan Heaters: Quick and Convenient Heating

Fan heaters use a fan to distribute warm air quickly throughout a room.

Advantages of Electric Fan Heaters:

• Rapidly heats a room
• Compact and easy to move
• Affordable and economical
• Available in various sizes

Disadvantages:

• Noisy operation
• Concentrates heat around the unit
• Can dry out the air

Cost of Running a Fan Heater:

With an average power output of 1125W:

 

Power rating: 1125W / 1000 = 1.125kW

Cost per hour: 1.125kW x 24.86p = 28.0p

Tube Heaters: Cost-Effective and Gentle Heating

Tube heaters are gaining popularity for frost protection and low-level background heating, making them a great option for anyone seeking a cheap to run electric heater.

 

Advantages of Tube Heaters:

• Efficient and cost-effective
• Even heat distribution
• Space-saving (can be mounted)
• Ideal for specific areas like greenhouses, cupboards, and bathrooms

Disadvantages:

• Not suitable for quickly heating large spaces
• Limited effectiveness in large rooms
• Some models may be bulky

Cost of Running a Tube Heater:

For a 4ft thermostatic tube heater with an output of 190W:

 

Power rating: 190W / 1000 = 0.19kWh

Cost per hour: 0.19 kWh x 24.86p = 4.7p

 

What Type of Electric Heater is the Cheapest to Run?

When selecting the cheapest electric heater to run, evaluate the daily and monthly costs. Based on our comparisons, thermostatic tube heaters stand out as the most economical options.

 

Cost Overview of Different Heaters:

Heater	Cost per Hour	Cost in 24 Hours	Cost per Month
Tube Heater	4.7p	£1.13	£34
Halogen Heater	29.8p	£7.16	£214
Fan Heater	28.0p	£6.71	£201
Oil-Filled Heater	37.3p	£8.95	£268

 

A tube heater is indeed the cheapest electric heater to run during winter, thanks to its low operational costs.

 

Case Study: Sarah’s Energy-Efficient Bathroom Solution

The Challenge:

Sarah from Manchester was struggling with mould and dampness in her medium-sized bathroom. She needed a heating solution that could keep the space warm and dry without driving up her energy bills. Traditional heaters were too expensive to run, and she wanted something affordable and efficient.

 

The Solution:

Sarah chose the 90W tube heater from Morris Thermostat Heat Range. Its compact design fit perfectly in her bathroom, and the low running cost of just 2p per hour made it an ideal choice.

 

The Results:

● No More Mould: The tube heater kept the bathroom warm and dry, eliminating mould and dampness.

● Lower Energy Bills: Sarah noticed a significant reduction in her energy costs compared to using her central heating.

● Easy to Use: The heater was simple to install and required no maintenance.

 

Sarah says, "I can’t believe how much of a difference this little heater has made. My bathroom is always warm, and I’m saving money too. Highly recommend it!"

 

Conclusion: Discover the Smartest Heating Solution with Morris

When it comes to affordable, energy-efficient heating, thermostatic tube heaters stand out as the ultimate choice. Whether you’re warming a bathroom, protecting plants in a greenhouse, or heating a caravan, our tube heaters deliver targeted warmth at a fraction of the cost of traditional heating solutions. With running costs as low as 1p per hour, they’re designed to keep your space comfortable while helping you save on energy bills.

At Morris, we’re proud to offer a range of tube heaters that combine versatility, efficiency, and durability. From our Eco Heat Range to our advanced Thermostat Heat Range, we have the perfect heater for every need.

 

Take the Next Step:

● Use our Electricity Cost Calculator below to estimate the running costs of your heaters and make informed decisions.

● Explore our collection of tube heaters and find the ideal solution for your space.

 

Shop Now and Start Saving!

 

We’d love to hear from you! Have questions about our tube heaters? Want to share how you’ve used them in your home or workspace? Leave a comment below, and we will be happy to help.