What are the Different Types of Electric Heating?

Last updated: February 2023 

Electric heating encompasses a range of products, from electric radiators to infrared panels, and they each have their own plus points. We’re looking at the many different types of electric heaters, outlining their advantages and disadvantages so that you can decide which one will be the most suitable for your property.

Why you should choose electric heating

Electric panel heaters

Storage heaters

Infrared panels

Electric radiators

All electric heaters convert every watt of electricity taken from the wall into usable heat, making them 100% efficient at point of use.

No pipework and no boiler fitting. Many electric heaters are compatible with simple DIY installation or can be hardwired by an electrician.    

No annual callouts or checks required. Only the occasional dusting is recommended to keep them in the best condition.

Electric heaters do not rely on gas so there’s no risk of carbon monoxide leaks.

Many are available with precise digital thermostats for accurate temperature control 24/7.

Smart programming, such as Bluetooth, WiFi and voice control, offer greater scope over heat management.

Check out our bitesize clip on the benefits of electric heating.

Electric panel heaters provide rapid warmth through convection which heats the surrounding air, working fast to get your room up to temperature. Highly responsive, electric panel heaters warm up and cool down quickly, delivering comfortable warmth whenever you need it. They come in a range of styles and use lightweight heating elements for easy portability. However, there is a downside as their heat can be lost to open doors and windows, so you may end up using more energy running your panel heaters for longer, which is ultimately less efficient. They’re not ideal for constant use, but if you’re in need of a supplementary heating solution because you’ve got family coming to stay in the spare bedroom, then panel heaters might just be the answer.

Storage heaters have been around for decades and were designed as a more cost-effective heating solution for those on cheaper night-time energy tariffs such as Economy 7. They spend all night charging and storing up heat in thermal retentive bricks, to then release that heat slowly throughout the day. The problem is, if you work away from home during the day, you’re unlikely to benefit from the warmth produced by these heaters and many older models also tend to run out of heat by the evening, leaving you in the cold just when you’re settling down to relax. This is why storage heaters don’t necessarily work well for everyone and should only be considered if you are on the right energy tariff.

The way convection heaters work means that by nature, they’re less efficient than other electric heating solutions. Let’s run down why this is, and how you can still make traditional convection heating work for your home.

Infrared panels are one of the newest additions to the world of electric heating and are incredibly effective. Instead of heating the air, they supply gentle radiant warmth which replicates the heat we feel every day, emitted from our own bodies and by the sun. It travels in a wave and is easily absorbed by surrounding walls and surfaces, which then re-radiate the heat back into the room for complete 360ᵒ warmth. This provides long lasting and comfortable warmth that isn’t lost easily, minimising energy waste for a more efficient system. Ultra-slim and contemporary in design, infrared panels also offer a minimalist aesthetic for completely discreet heating and can be fitted throughout your home.

Looking for the ideal infrared panel for your home? Check out this video.

Electric radiators are similar to central heating radiators, only they are often fitted with dry heating elements or thermal oil which heats up to deliver warmth. Offering the best of both worlds, they supply heat through a combination of convection and radiation, so you get the benefit of quick and responsive heat coupled with deeper and lasting warmth. Some electric radiators, like those made with ceramic stone, provide around 50% radiant warmth and can retain heat for up to 45 minutes, keeping you warm long after the heater has been switched off. Incredibly versatile, electric radiators are great for a range of spaces, which is why they make such an ideal primary heating solution. Add that to the array of styles they have to offer and it’s easy to see why they’re such a popular choice.

Looking for the ideal electric radiator for your home? Check out this video.