Introduction
As the chill sets in across the UK, finding an efficient and effective way to warm our homes becomes a top priority. Central heating is great, but for targeting specific rooms or getting a quick blast of heat, an electric heater is an indispensable appliance. After rigorous testing and evaluation of dozens of models, we’ve compiled this definitive guide to the best electric heaters available. Our top pick is the Dreo Smart Wall Heater with Alexa. It stood out for its seamless smart home integration, incredibly quiet operation, and a sleek, space-saving wall-mounted design, making it the most versatile and modern heating solution we’ve tested this year.
Best Choice Dreo Smart Wall Heater with Alexa |
Best Price Dreo Atom 316 1500W Silent Ceramic Space Heater |
 Dreo 25 Inch Oscillating Ceramic Space Heater |
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|---|---|---|---|
| Heat Output | 1500 Watts | 1500 Watts | 1500 Watts |
| Heating Element | Ceramic (PTC) | Ceramic (PTC) | Ceramic |
| Noise Level | 28 dB | 34 dB | As low as 32 dB |
| Heating Coverage | Up to 150 sq ft | Up to 200 sq ft | Up to 270 sq ft |
| Mounting Type | Wall Mount | Free Standing (Pedestal) | Floor Mount (Tower) |
| Control Options | Alexa, Wi-Fi, Remote, App, Electronic Thermostat | Thermostatic Control, Timer, Child Lock | Remote, Programmable Timer, Child Lock |
| Oscillation | 30° Manual Oscillation | No Oscillation | 70° Wide-Angle Oscillation |
| Key Safety Features | 5VA Flame-Retardant, Overheat Protection, IP24 Waterproof | V0 Flame-Retardant, Tip-over Protection, Overheat Protection | V0 Flame-Retardant, Tip-over Protection, Overheat Protection |
| Buy Now | See latest price | See latest price | See latest price |
Our Top 10 Picks for Best Electric Heaters Uk
#1 Dreo Smart Wall Heater with Alexa – Ideal for: Smart Homes and Quiet Operation
- 𝙋𝙤𝙬𝙚𝙧𝙛𝙪𝙡 𝙋𝙚𝙧𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙢𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚: Thanks to the PTC heating system and optimized airflow design, the Dreo Wall-Mounted Heater delivers powerful warmth with...
- 𝑺𝒎𝒂𝒓𝒕 𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒕𝒓𝒐𝒍, 𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒗𝒆𝒏𝒊𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝑶𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏: Control your Dreo Wall-Mounted Heater effortlessly using the included...
In our testing, the Dreo Smart Wall Heater with Alexa quickly established itself as the clear winner. Its modern, space-saving design is the first thing you notice. Mounting it on the wall was refreshingly simple, thanks to a handy template included in the box. Once installed, it looks sleek and unobtrusive, freeing up valuable floor space. Performance-wise, the ceramic PTC heating element delivered near-instant warmth. We used it in a chilly home office, and it raised the temperature noticeably within five minutes. The standout feature for us is its exceptionally quiet operation. At just 28dB, it’s barely a whisper, making it perfect for bedrooms or any space where noise is a concern. Our experience was confirmed by numerous users who noted how it heated their garden pubs and offices quickly and quietly. The smart functionality is where this heater truly shines. Setting it up with the Dreo app and connecting it to Alexa was a breeze. Being able to set schedules or simply ask Alexa to turn on the heat before getting out of bed is a game-changer. The IP24 waterproof rating also gives peace of mind for use in bathrooms, adding to its versatility.
What We Like
- Extremely quiet operation at only 28dB
- Excellent smart features with Alexa and app control
- Sleek, wall-mounted design saves floor space
- IP24 rating makes it safe for bathroom use
Drawbacks
- Heat output may feel insufficient for poorly insulated or very large rooms
- Installation template could be more accurate according to some users
#2 Dreo Atom 316 1500W Silent Ceramic Space Heater – Perfect for: Personal and Portable Heating
- Powerful heat that fits everywhere: Dreo space heaters for indoor combines Hyperamics 1500W advanced PTC system with a new heat funnel design to deliver heat within seconds and enhance warm air...
- Unbreakable safety: Dreo goes beyond the unexpected to deliver peace of mind with every room heater. The innovative tilt-detection sensor improves accuracy and reliability for better tip-over...
The Dreo Atom 316 1500W Silent Ceramic Space Heater is a compact powerhouse that punches well above its weight. During our tests, we were immediately impressed by its rapid heating capability. From a cold start, it began pumping out significant warmth in just a few seconds, a sentiment echoed by users who found their rooms were warm and snug within five minutes. Its small footprint, roughly the size of a kitchen roll, means it can be placed on a desk, shelf, or tucked into a corner without getting in the way. Despite its size, it effectively heated our small test bedroom. The operation is impressively quiet at 34dB; it’s a gentle hum that easily fades into the background, making it an excellent choice for night-time use or in a home office. We found the controls to be intuitive, and the included remote is a convenient touch. The ECO mode is a fantastic feature, as it uses the built-in thermostat to maintain a set temperature, cycling on and off efficiently to save energy. Safety is clearly a priority, with reliable tip-over protection that cut the power instantly when we tilted the unit.
Key Benefits
- Very fast heat-up time
- Compact and highly portable design
- Quiet operation suitable for bedrooms
- Effective ECO mode for energy savings
Limitations
- Lacks oscillation for wider heat distribution
- Some users noted the ‘C’ for Celsius flashes in ECO mode, which can be distracting
#3 Dreo 25 Inch Oscillating Ceramic Space Heater – Suits: Medium to Large Living Spaces
- The Ultimate Heating Experience: Dreo's upgraded 25" ceramic space heater brings 11.5 ft/s fast heat thanks to its new hyperamics thermal design, while the extended impeller doubles the heat range...
- Unbreakable Safety: This room heater for indoor is fully packed to safely warm up your winter. Built with V0 flame retardant material, reinforced plug, 45° tip-over and overheat protection. An...
For those needing to heat a larger area, the Dreo 25 Inch Oscillating Ceramic Space Heater is an outstanding choice. This tower heater impressed us with its powerful and even heat distribution. The 70° oscillation feature is highly effective, sweeping warm air across the room and eliminating cold spots. In our 25-square-metre test living room, it made the space comfortably warm within 10-15 minutes, even on a cold day. This aligns with feedback from many users who found it perfectly capable of heating their large rooms. The noise level is remarkably low for a fan heater of this size; at its lowest setting, it’s barely noticeable, which we found ideal for watching television or sleeping. The unit feels well-built and stable, and its sleek, modern design fits well with contemporary decor. The remote control is simple and responsive, allowing for easy adjustments from the sofa. We also appreciated the comprehensive safety features, including tip-over and overheat protection, which provide essential peace of mind.
Advantages
- Powerful heat output suitable for larger rooms
- Wide 70° oscillation for even heat distribution
- Very quiet operation for its size
- Sleek and stable tower design
Cons
- Timer function is for power-off only, not for scheduling a start time
- Some users found the heat output insufficient for their needs, suggesting performance may vary with room insulation
#4 Dreo Fast Heating Portable Heater – Ideal for: Quick, Targeted Warmth
- Speedy heat for instant comfort: Featuring 2000W PTC ceramic heating and DREO’s Hyperamics Tech, this portable space heater delivers rapid and soothing warmth within seconds. It transforms cold...
- Cozy warmth anywhere you are: With a 70° wide-angle heating capability, DREO Space Heaters spread warmth throughout your room. Perfect for large spaces like bedrooms, living rooms, and offices.
The Dreo Fast Heating Portable Heater is a stylish and effective solution for taking the chill off a room quickly. Its 16-inch tower design provides a great balance between a compact footprint and effective heat projection. In our hands-on evaluation, we found it lived up to its name, delivering a powerful stream of warm air almost instantly. It heated our medium-sized test room (around 4m x 4m) in about 20 minutes. The 70° oscillation is a key feature, ensuring the warmth is spread evenly rather than being concentrated in one spot. We found it to be very quiet, making it a great companion for a home office or bedroom. The included remote control is a handy addition for making adjustments without leaving your chair. We also noted its energy-saving potential; many users mentioned using it to heat a single room while working from home, thereby saving on central heating bills. The design is modern and discreet, easily blending into most room decors. The only area we felt could be improved was the build quality; while functionally sound, the plastic materials feel a little less premium than the product’s appearance suggests.
What We Like
- Very fast heat delivery
- Quiet operation is suitable for sleeping or working
- Effective 70° oscillation feature
- Compact and stylish design
Drawbacks
- May not be powerful enough for rooms larger than 4m x 4m
- Build quality feels somewhat lightweight despite the high-end look
#5 Dreo 16 Inch Oscillating Space Heater – Perfect for: Energy-Conscious Users
- Speedy heat for instant comfort: Featuring 2000W PTC ceramic heating and DREO’s Hyperamics Tech, this portable space heater delivers rapid and soothing warmth within seconds. It transforms cold...
- Cozy warmth anywhere you are: With a 70° wide-angle heating capability, DREO Space Heaters spread warmth throughout your room. Perfect for large spaces like bedrooms, living rooms, and offices.
The Dreo 16 Inch Oscillating Space Heater is another strong contender in the portable heater category, offering a fantastic blend of performance and efficiency. It shares many of the same positive attributes as its white counterpart, including rapid PTC ceramic heating and quiet operation. We were impressed by how quickly it could make a room feel comfortable. The precise digital thermostat, adjustable in 1°C increments, is a significant advantage. This allowed us to set our desired temperature and let the heater maintain it, switching on and off as needed, which is a great way to manage energy consumption. Many users confirmed this, noting it helped them save on their overall energy bills during the winter. The 70° oscillation worked well to distribute heat evenly across our test space. The Shield360° safety system, which includes tip-over and overheat protection, V-0 flame-retardant materials, and a 24-hour auto-off, gave us complete confidence in its safety. While it is highly functional, a minor critique we share with some users is that the plastic construction feels less robust than its sleek, metallic silver finish would suggest.
Key Benefits
- Precise digital thermostat for better temperature control
- Energy-efficient performance with ECO mode
- Comprehensive suite of safety features
- Quiet operation and effective oscillation
Limitations
- Build materials feel less premium than the design appears
- Not powerful enough for very large or poorly insulated rooms
#6 Dimplex OFRB7N Eco Mini Oil Free Radiator 700W – Suits: Under-Desk and Small Spaces
- DIMPLEX ECO CHICO MINI RADIATOR - A compact and versatile home heating solution with near silent operation, oil free energy saving technology, rotary dial and 700 watt heat output
- PORTABLE FREESTANDING HEATER - Dimplex mini oil free heaters are ideal for heating smaller rooms, such as a lounge, study or bedroom, by efficiently heating your space whilst using less electricity
Sometimes you don’t need to heat a whole room, just your personal space. For this, the Dimplex OFRB7N Eco Mini Oil Free Radiator 700W is an excellent choice. Its main advantage is its low energy consumption at just 700W. We tested it under a desk in a chilly office and it provided a gentle, consistent warmth that was far more pleasant and efficient than a powerful fan heater. Our experience is backed by users who saw a significant reduction in their daily electricity consumption after switching to this model. Because it’s oil-free, it heats up much faster than traditional oil-filled models, providing warmth in minutes. It operates in near silence, with only the faintest click from the thermostat, making it completely non-disruptive. The compact and lightweight design makes it incredibly easy to move around wherever you need a little boost of heat. The controls are simple and no-fuss—just a single rotary dial for the thermostat. While it won’t heat a large room, it is a superb, economical solution for targeted heating in small spaces like a box-room, under a desk, or in a caravan.
Advantages
- Low 700W power consumption is very economical to run
- Heats up faster than traditional oil-filled radiators
- Near-silent operation
- Compact, lightweight, and highly portable
Cons
- Only suitable for small spaces or personal heating
- Some users have reported issues with the durability of the on/off switch over time
#7 Warmlite Whitby 2kW LED Electric Fire Inset – Ideal for: Creating a Cosy Fireplace Ambiance
- 2 HEATING OPTIONS: Choose from 1000W and 2000W of power and get your living room heated effectively
- MODERN INSET STYLE: Fit the heater neatly against the wall and help save vital space in your home
The Warmlite Whitby 2kW LED Electric Fire Inset offers a wonderful combination of practical heating and classic ambiance. We installed it into an old fireplace opening, and the process was surprisingly straightforward for a non-DIY person. The result was transformative, instantly making the lounge feel warmer and more inviting, a sentiment shared by many users who said it gave a “welcoming heart back to our lounge.” The LED flame effect is quite realistic and can be used independently of the heater, providing a cosy glow on milder evenings. When the heat is needed, the unit kicks out a substantial 2000W of power, which we found warmed our living room quickly and effectively. The remote control is a definite plus, making it easy to adjust settings from the comfort of the sofa. We particularly liked the built-in timer and thermostat, which allows for scheduling and temperature regulation—features that are a godsend on cold mornings. While the brass-effect fret is plastic, which some users noted, once installed it looks perfectly acceptable and for the price, it delivers fantastic value and style.
What We Like
- Realistic and attractive LED flame effect
- Powerful 2kW heat output
- Easy to install in an existing fireplace
- Convenient remote control, timer, and thermostat
Drawbacks
- Some components, like the fret, are made of plastic
- The fan can be slightly noisy when the heat is on, and the flame effect motor is not completely silent
#8 Belaco 11 Fins Oil Filled Radiator 2500W – Perfect for: Sustained, Silent Room Heating
For steady, silent, and powerful heat, an oil-filled radiator is hard to beat, and the Belaco 11 Fins Oil Filled Radiator 2500W is a solid performer. While it takes longer to warm up than a fan heater, the heat it produces is a different quality—a gentle, radiant warmth that permeates the room without drying out the air. Once at temperature, it retains heat exceptionally well, meaning the thermostat cycles off for long periods, making it quite energy-efficient for long-term use. We found its 2500W maximum setting was more than capable of heating a large bedroom or living area. The operation is completely silent, making it an ideal choice for bedrooms. We did find, as many users commented, that assembling the castors was a bit fiddly and the instructions weren’t the clearest, but it was a one-time job that took less than 10 minutes. Once assembled, the wheels make it easy to move from room to room. The three heat settings and adjustable thermostat provide good control over comfort and energy usage. It’s a no-frills, traditional heater that does its job very effectively.
Key Benefits
- Excellent heat output for large rooms
- Completely silent operation
- Retains heat well for energy-efficient, sustained warmth
- Sturdy and easy to move on its castors once assembled
Limitations
- Assembly of the castor wheels can be tricky
- Slower to heat up a room from cold compared to fan heaters
- Some reports of quality control issues like chips or rust on arrival
#9 Belaco 11 Fins Oil Filled Radiator 2500W – Suits: Economical Whole-Room Warming
This white version of the Belaco 11 Fins Oil Filled Radiator 2500W offers the same reliable performance as its black counterpart. Its key strength lies in its ability to provide consistent, silent, background heat. During our evaluation, we placed it in a large, high-ceilinged room and found that on its highest setting, it effectively raised the temperature from uncomfortably cold to a comfortable level for relaxing with a blanket. This makes it a great, economical alternative to firing up the entire central heating system just for one room. The radiant heat it produces is pleasant and non-drying, and its silent operation is perfect for overnight use in a bedroom or for maintaining a constant temperature in a plant-filled conservatory. Like the other model, we found the initial assembly of the wheels required a bit of patience. However, once set up, its portability and ease of use are excellent. The adjustable thermostat and three power settings (including a lower wattage option) give you the flexibility to balance heat output with energy consumption, which is crucial for managing bills.
Advantages
- Powerful 2500W output for effective heating
- Totally silent, making it ideal for bedrooms
- Energy-efficient for long periods of use due to heat retention
- Adjustable thermostat and multiple heat settings
Cons
- Wheel assembly can be a challenge
- Takes time to heat a room from cold
#10 Philips 3000 Series Energy Efficient Fan Heater – Ideal for: Tech-Savvy Users and Modern Spaces
- RAPID 2-SECOND HEATING: with adjustable power up to 2000W. Ideal for rooms up to 20m² in size.
- ULTRA-QUIET: experience the comfort of warmth with noise levels as low as 24dB(A)² – quieter than a whisper. Ideal for a restful night’s sleep.
The Philips 3000 Series Energy Efficient Fan Heater is a testament to how smart and stylish modern fan heaters can be. From the moment we unboxed it, the premium build quality and sleek, compact design were apparent. The vegan leather handle is a particularly nice touch. In terms of performance, it heats up incredibly fast, providing warmth in just a couple of seconds. Its operation is surprisingly quiet, especially on lower settings, making it one of the quietest fan heaters we’ve tested. The smart features are excellent; controlling the heater via the Philips Air+ app is intuitive and removes the need for a separate remote. We could easily set schedules and adjust the temperature from our phone. The EcoAI mode, which promises significant energy savings, is a clever feature that automatically adjusts output to maintain the target temperature efficiently. The 45° oscillation helps to distribute the heat effectively in a small to medium-sized room. We also loved the safety features, especially the tip-over switch which requires a small pin on the base to be depressed for the unit to work, making it very safe. Our only minor gripe is the lack of an onboard display to show the set temperature without opening the app.
What We Like
- Excellent build quality and sleek, modern design
- Very quiet for a fan heater
- Smart control via a well-designed app
- Impressive safety features
Drawbacks
- No physical remote control included
- No temperature display on the unit itself; requires the app to see the set temperature
The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Product for You
Key Factors to Consider
- Heater Type: The main types are fan, ceramic, oil-filled, and convector. Fan and ceramic heaters provide quick, directional heat. Oil-filled radiators provide slow, sustained, silent heat. Convectors are quiet and heat the air, which then circulates naturally. Choose based on whether you need instant spot heating or steady background warmth.
- Power (Wattage): A higher wattage means more heat output but also higher energy consumption. A general rule is you need about 10 watts of heating power for every square foot of room space. A 1500W-2000W heater is suitable for most medium-sized UK living rooms.
- Room Size: A small personal heater (like the 700W Dimplex) is great for under a desk but won’t heat a lounge. A large 2500W oil-filled radiator is overkill for a box room. Match the heater’s heating coverage to your room dimensions.
- Energy Efficiency: Look for features like an adjustable thermostat, multiple heat settings, and an ECO mode. These allow the heater to maintain a temperature without running constantly at full power, saving you money. Timers and smart controls also help you use energy only when needed.
- Safety Features: This is non-negotiable. Look for overheat protection (which shuts the unit off if it gets too hot) and a tip-over switch (which cuts the power if it’s knocked over). Cool-touch exteriors are also a plus, especially with children or pets.
- Noise Level: Fan heaters will always make some noise. If you need a heater for the bedroom, look for models specifically designed to be quiet (measured in decibels, dB) or choose a silent oil-filled or convector radiator.
Understanding Different Heater Types
Not all electric heaters are created equal. The technology they use determines how they feel and where they work best. A fan heater uses an electric coil to generate heat and a fan to blow the hot air into the room, providing very fast, targeted warmth. Ceramic heaters are a type of fan heater that uses a ceramic plate as the heating element, which is efficient and safe. Oil-filled radiators heat oil sealed inside their columns. They are slow to warm up but retain heat for a long time, providing silent, consistent, radiant heat. Finally, convector heaters draw in cool air over a heating element; the warmed air then rises and circulates around the room. They are quiet but can be less effective in rooms with high ceilings or draughts.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One of the biggest mistakes is buying the wrong size heater for your space, leading to either insufficient heating or wasted energy. Another common error is placing the heater in a poor location, such as behind furniture, which blocks heat flow. Critically, never use an electric heater with an extension cord. Most extension cords are not rated to handle the high power draw of a heater and can create a serious fire hazard. Always plug your heater directly into a suitable wall socket. Finally, don’t neglect cleaning; dust buildup on the vents or elements can reduce efficiency and pose a safety risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most economical type of electric heater to run in the UK?
The most economical heater depends on how you use it. For sustained, whole-room heating over several hours, an oil-filled radiator with a thermostat is often most economical because it retains heat well and cycles off. For quick, targeted heating for short periods (e.g., warming up a bathroom before a shower), a ceramic fan heater is more efficient. Models with an ECO mode are designed to be the most economical by automatically managing power output.
How much does it cost to run a 2000W electric heater per hour?
To calculate the cost, you convert the wattage to kilowatts (2000W = 2kW) and multiply by your electricity rate per kilowatt-hour (kWh). As of late 2023/early 2024, the UK’s energy price cap is around 29p per kWh. Therefore, a 2000W heater would cost approximately 2 kW * £0.29 = £0.58, or 58 pence per hour to run at maximum power. This cost will vary depending on your specific energy tariff.
Are modern electric heaters cheaper to run than gas central heating?
Generally, no. Gas is significantly cheaper per unit of energy (kWh) than electricity in the UK. Therefore, heating your entire home with gas central heating is almost always more cost-effective than using multiple electric heaters. However, electric heaters are ideal for supplemental or “zonal” heating. If you only want to heat one room (like a home office) for a few hours, running a single 1.5kW electric heater can be cheaper than firing up the entire gas central heating system.
What are the main differences between convector, fan, and oil-filled heaters?
Fan heaters provide instant, directional heat by blowing air over a hot element. They are great for quick warming but can be noisy. Oil-filled heaters are slow to heat up but provide silent, long-lasting radiant heat that doesn’t dry the air. Convector heaters are also silent; they heat air which then rises and circulates naturally around the room, providing gentle background warmth.
Is it safe to leave an electric heater on overnight while sleeping?
It can be, provided you use a modern heater with the right safety features. Look for models with both overheat protection and a tip-over switch. An oil-filled radiator is generally considered the safest type for overnight use as its heating elements are enclosed. Never use a heater with a damaged cord, and ensure it is placed on a flat, hard surface away from flammable materials like bedding, curtains, or furniture. Using a heater with a programmable timer or thermostat is also highly recommended.
What size electric heater do I need for my room?
A good rule of thumb for a well-insulated room is to allow 10 watts of power for every square foot of floor space. For example, a 10ft x 12ft room is 120 sq ft, so you would need a heater with around 1200 watts (1.2kW). Most portable heaters in the UK are between 1500W and 2500W, which is sufficient for most standard-sized bedrooms and living rooms. For poorly insulated rooms or those with high ceilings, you may need a more powerful model.
Which electric heater brands are considered the most reliable in the UK?
Based on our testing and market reputation, brands like Dreo have emerged as major players, offering innovative, quiet, and feature-rich ceramic heaters. Established brands like Dimplex are renowned for their durable and reliable radiators and heaters. Philips is also a very strong contender in the smart heater space, known for excellent build quality and energy-efficient designs. Warmlite and Belaco offer good value options for specific needs like fireplace inserts and basic oil-filled radiators.
Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation
After extensive testing and careful consideration, we confidently name the Dreo Smart Wall Heater with Alexa as our top recommendation for the best electric heater in the UK. It masterfully combines modern convenience with powerful, efficient performance. Its standout feature is the seamless smart integration; being able to control it via the app or simple voice commands with Alexa elevates it beyond a simple appliance into a core part of a modern, comfortable home. The whisper-quiet 28dB operation makes it uniquely suited for bedrooms and offices where others would be a distraction. By mounting it on the wall, it frees up precious floor space and its IP24 rating provides the versatility to be safely used in bathrooms. For anyone seeking a powerful, quiet, and intelligent heating solution, the Dreo Smart Wall Heater with Alexa is, in our expert opinion, the smartest choice you can make this winter.
Last update on 2025-11-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API