What are the best electric radiators 2023?
- Published: 15 May 2023
There are more reasons than ever to make the switch to electric heating in 2023. Perhaps you’re looking to save money on your heating bills, live a greener lifestyle, or simply wish to upgrade your old-fashioned central heating to a modern alternative. Whatever it is, we’re here to break down our extensive range to give you the definitive list of the best electric radiators on the market. Whether you want to take advantage of smart heating, complement interiors with a designer model or are just looking for absolute efficiency, we’ve got you covered.
Why you should upgrade to electric radiators
Maintenance free
As they aren't linked to a boiler, electric radiators require no annual servicing. Extended warranties, simple installation and no carbon monoxide risks ensure minimal upkeep.
Energy-saving features
Open window detection, adaptive start and weekly programming help to streamline energy consumption, reducing waste and running costs.
Zoned heating
Programming your radiator individually or assigning them to a heating zone means your heating can better match your routine, ultimately cutting down on bills.
Versatile designs
Traditional and designer builds, complementary colours and space-saving vertical models mean there’s an electric radiator to suit any design scheme.
Intelligent programming
24/7 digital programmers, app control and sophisticated heating elements elevate the programming capabilities of electric radiators, providing you with a hassle-free experience.
Energy efficient
Your electric radiators can be completely carbon neutral when paired with a renewable energy source or tariff, for 100% clean electricity year-round.
From fast-acting and effective warmth to zero maintenance, check out this video to learn why electric radiators are taking UK homes by storm.
Best smart radiator: Ecostrad iQ Ceramic
At a glance
Top 5 features
- Simple DIY Plug & Go Installation
- Heat-Retentive Ceramic Stone Core
- WiFi App Control
- Motion Detector Mode
- Alexa & Google Home Compatible
The Ecostrad iQ Ceramic is Electric Radiator Direct’s flagship radiator: an ideal combination of high-grade manufacturing and cutting-edge technology has made it a powerhouse in the electric heating space. Its slimline, contemporary build houses a highly efficient ceramic stone core for improved heat retention. With in-built safety features like a thermal limiter which cuts power to the radiator once it has reached a certain temperature, you don’t need to worry about micromanaging your unit.
Built with a wealth of energy-saving features, the iQ Ceramic goes a step further with its integration of motion sensors and voice control. By detecting movement, the radiator can turn itself on and off completely autonomously, and pairing it with your home voice assistant allows you to manage your heating without lifting a finger. You can even purchase radiator feet to turn the iQ Ceramic into a portable heater. With effortless DIY-installation, you're guaranteed optimal performance without any fuss.
Opt for a classic white colourway that blends effortlessly with any design scheme.
Treat yourself to a textured black finish for some eye-catching boldness.
Truly the definition of 21st century heating, the Ecostrad iQ Ceramic is our favourite smart electric radiator of 2023.
Check out our review of the Ecostrad iQ Ceramic - touching on design, installation and smart control.
Best oil-free radiator: Haverland RC Wave
At a glance
- Price – From £249.99
- Wattage (w) – 450-1700
- Heats from – 5.5-20m²
- Colours – White
- Programming – LED control pad | Bluetooth app control
- Compatible with – Haverland BT app
Top 5 features
- Simple DIY Plug & Go Installation
- Energy-Efficient Dry Thermal Technology
- Silent Electronic TRIAC Thermostat
- Bluetooth App Control
- Lifetime Guarantee on Radiator Body
The Haverland RC Wave is the result of forty years’ experience from the esteemed electric radiator specialists, Haverland. They have refined their expertise with this budget-friendly contemporary radiator, with an ultra-slim curved body that boasts a lifetime guarantee. As it heats using highly efficient dry thermal technology, heat-up times are incredibly quick, with max temperatures reached within 15 minutes. With no internal liquid, there’s no chance of leaks whatsoever.
Its highly accurate silent TRIAC thermostat gauges room temperature as closely as ±0.5 ºC. Set weekly schedules, boost temperatures and take advantage of its baby care surface temperature setting using the touch-responsive control panel. New for 2023, the RC Wave comes with innovative Bluetooth control. With no manual necessary, simply program your radiator from the convenience of your smartphone and enjoy the next generation of this bestseller. As the RC Wave comes ready for wall mounting or made portable with feet, you can enjoy it as both a primary heat source and top-up heater for those hard-to-heat areas.
Wall-mount the RC Wave to enjoy a permanent heat source for your space.
For on-demand warmth wherever you need it, purchase the radiator feet to make your RC Wave portable.
With lightning-quick heat-up times, Bluetooth compatibility, and a lifetime guarantee, the Haverland RC Wave is our favourite oil-free radiator of 2023.
Best designer radiator: Ecostrad Allerton iQ
At a glance
- Price – From £309.99
- Wattage (w) – 600-1500
- Heats from – 6-12m²
- Colours – White | Anthracite
- Programming – WiFi app control | Ecostrad iQ WiFi Heating Element
- Compatible with – Ecostrad Ecosystem app | Smart Life app
Top 5 features
- Bespoke Column Design
- Unique Fast-Flo Technology
- Heat-Retentive Thermal Oil
- Sophisticated WiFi Element
- Energy-Saving Programming Features
Combining a stylish period aesthetic with innovative modern programming, the Ecostrad Allerton iQ is a designer radiator of unrivalled efficiency. Using a high volume of specially engineered thermal fluid, the Allerton provides comfortable, long-lasting warmth – ideal for hard-to-heat spaces. Its bespoke columns aren’t just for aesthetic purposes: they allow the fluid to flow evenly to achieve enhanced heat circulation and slower cooldowns, resulting in premium heating for any space.
WiFi compatibile, the Allerton can be controlled with a simple swipe and tap of your smart device, and its sophisticated heating element allows for precise temperature measuring to complement a wealth of energy-saving features. With horizontal and low styles available, the Ecostrad Allerton iQ is an incredibly versatile choice. So, whether you need a space-saving solution for your conservatory or a stylish but efficient focal point for your living room, the Allerton has you covered.
With the choice of double or triple columns and a glossy white or matt anthracite finish, you’re guaranteed to find the perfect style for your home.
With low styles available, comfortably heat conservatories and other rooms with restrictive wall space.
A timeless aesthetic meets deluxe modern programming – the Ecostrad Allerton iQ easily fits the bill as our favourite designer electric radiator of 2023.
Best vertical radiator: Terma Rolo E
At a glance
- Price – From £509.99
- Wattage (w) – 800-1000
- Heats from – 6.5-12m²
- Colours – White | Modern Grey | Quartz Mocha | Salt ‘n’ Pepper
- Programming – Bluetooth control | MOA Blue Heating Element
- Compatible with – Terma Blueline app
Top 5 features
- 5 Heat Levels & 2-Hour Timer
- Bluetooth App Control
- Automatic Heating Program Schedule
- Anti-Freeze Protection
- Suitable for Bathroom Installation
[UK ONLY] The Terma Rolo E is a space-saving vertical radiator housed in a luxury build. Its sleek oval bars store a dynamic thermal fluid that boasts extreme efficiency and provides your home with long-lasting warmth.
Fitted with a MOA Blue Heating Element, the Terma Rolo E can be controlled via its digital programmer or while paired to its Bluetooth app. The heating element is equipped with a sensor that accurately gauges room temperature to provide you with ultimate control: adjust weekly schedules, set the timer for up to two hours and tweak temperatures instantly between five heat levels. If you’re away during winter, you can rest easy knowing it has an automatic anti-frost mode, and with splashproof protection it can also be utilised as a superbly stylish bathroom heater.
Efficient and beautifully designed, the Terma Rolo E is our favourite vertical electric radiator of 2023.
Best German radiator: Ecostrad Ecowärme
At a glance
- Price – From £369.99
- Wattage (w) – 500-2000
- Heats from – 5-20m²
- Colours – White | Anthracite
- Programming – Integrated control panel | 24/7 digital programmer
Top 5 features
- Simple DIY Plug & Go Installation
- Heat-Retentive Ceramic Stone Core
- 3 Heater Modes & Timer
- Portable & Wall Mounting Options
- 24/7 Programming
The long-established quality of German manufacturing is aptly demonstrated with the Ecostrad Ecowärme. Finished in a classic fluted design, this timeless-looking radiator has received a modern upgrade. In-built with highly efficient ceramic heating bricks and an aluminium convection element, the Ecowärme perfectly balances convected and radiant heat to provide long-lasting, comfortable warmth even after switch-off.
Its deep-ribbed housing maximises surface area for increased contact with the air, resulting in quick heat-up times and a superior spread of warmth. Pair that with its integrated 24/7 digital programmer, you can adjust heating schedules, set timers, and access a wealth of energy-saving features such as adaptive start and open window detection. Offering immense versatility, the Ecowärme can be turned into a portable heater and also comes in a vertical model, so you're guranteed to find the perfect match for your space.
The horizontal version is ideal for traditionally-designed spaces.
Choose a vertical model for the perfect balance of tradition and modernism.
The Ecostrad Ecowärme has cemented itself with its timeless aesthetic and superior heat transfer, making it our favourite German electric radiator of 2023.
Spoilt for choice? Our Electric Radiator Buying Guide is here to make the process as pain-free as possible.
Your ideal electric radiator is a few clicks away
Now you have our recommendations, it’s time to weigh up the options to decide which electric radiator is right for you.
Our radiator calculator is here to help you find the ideal wattage for your space – just answer a few quick questions about your property and it’ll do the rest. For an even more personalised recommendation, get in touch for a no obligation free quote today.
Want to know our other favourites for 2023? Check out these blogs:
Key learnings
- Advanced programming capabilities, low maintenance and cost-cutting features make electric radiators the ideal heating solution for 2023.
- Ecostrad iQ Ceramic – a highly advanced smart electric radiator with superior heat retention.
- Haverland RC Wave – a contemporary oil-free radiator with Bluetooth compatibility, quick heat-up times and a lifetime guarantee.
- Ecostrad Allerton iQ – an elegant, column-style designer radiator that uses unique Fast-Flo technology to provide superior warmth.
- Terma Rolo E – (UK only) a vertical radiator that acts as a striking wall feature whilst implementing smart Bluetooth control for added convenience.
- Ecostrad Ecowärme – the prime example of high-grade German manufacturing, with a classic fluted design and heat-retentive ceramic core.