Convection heater vs Oil heater - which is right for you?

Convection heater vs Oil heater

If you’re shopping for a heater to keep you cosy on chilly days, you might be wondering whether a convection heater or an oil heater will better suit your needs. Both are electric resistance heaters and thus essentially 100% efficient at converting electricity to heat, but they differ in how they deliver warmth, and how quickly you’ll feel it. Both of these heaters use convection to warm the air but there is a key difference. 

• Convector heaters heat the air directly and rely purely on air circulation.
  
  
• Oil heaters warm a sealed internal oil that then radiates heat and warms the surrounding air more gradually. They combine convection and radiant heat, and they retain warmth long after switching off.

Which Heater Is Best for You?

Room Size & Use

• If you want gentle, background warmth in a medium to large room then a convection is a solid choice.
  
  
• If you prefer steady heat over many hours, like warming a lounge or open-plan space, oil heaters shine, especially at lower thermostat settings.

Noise Sensitivity

• Both types are generally quiet, but a convection heater without a fan is about as noiseless as it gets.
  
  
• An oil heater is also very quiet. No internal fan means minimal operational noise.

Speed of Heat

• Convection heaters can take a bit to warm the space, but once they do, the room remains comfortable.
  
  
• Oil heaters also take time to heat up, though once the oil is hot, it continues radiating warmth efficiently.

Energy Costs

• Both are essentially 100% efficient in converting electricity to heat.
  
  
• Running costs depend on usage:
  
  
• Convection: Perfect if you’d like a background heat for longer stretches.
  
  
• Oil: Ideal if you want to maintain steady warmth over time—once the oil is hot, you can often dial down the thermostat.

Practical Tips

1. Thermostat & timer: Whether convection or oil, a built-in thermostat helps keep temperatures consistent. A timer prevents running the heater longer than needed.
   
   
2. Placement: Convection heaters need open space for good air circulation. Oil heaters radiate heat from their surface, so ensure they aren’t pressed against walls or furniture.
   
   
3. Insulation & draught-proofing: Seal up gaps around doors or windows to maximise your heater’s effectiveness and minimise heat loss.
   
   
4. Check safety features: Look for tip-over protection or overheat shut-off—common on modern oil heaters and some convection models.

Still not sure? Pop by your local Briscoes store to compare different heater models in person, or read our guide on the most energy efficient heaters. With the right choice, you’ll stay cosy while keeping your power usage in check. Enjoy your warm, snug space all season long!