Feeling a bit lost in the chilly air? Fear NOT!

We’re here to help you understand everything you need to stay warm and toasty during the surprisingly frosty Australian winter month. As experts in home heating solutions, we are here to provide you with a comprehensive guide to finding the best heaters. 

From electric heaters, and energy-efficient models to bathroom heaters, and outdoor heaters! 

BUT, before you dash off to grab a 2000W electric heater from the grocery store, hold UP!! Those things can be inefficient and even unsafe. Stick with us, and we’ll explain why choosing the RIGHT heater is crucial and how to avoid the common pitfalls.

This guide will arm you with aaaallll the info you need to pick the perfect heater for your space that keeps your warm without breaking the bank. By the end of this guide, you’ll be heater expert, knowing exactly what to look for and how to make the most of your new heating buddy. 

Let’s get you warmed up the right way!

Understanding Your Heating Needs

Before purchasing any heaters, you need to understand your heating needs. How big of a space do you need to warm? What source of heat is available? Answering these questions will set you on the right path to choosing the best heater. 

Room Size

First, start by assessing the size of your room. A cosy bedroom may only require a low-wattage heater—you don't want to turn your snug space into an oven. On the flip side, a larger living room might need a heating powerhouse to ensure you get the most bang for your buck.

Tip: As a general rule of thumb, to select what wattage or size electric heater you need, multiply your room size in square meters by 100. For example, if your room is 3m x 4m, it has an area of 12sqm. 12 x 100 = 1,200. This means your space requires a minimum of 1200W for effective heating.

Existing Heating - Primary or Supplementary Source

Now that you have an idea of sizing, will this heater be your main source of warmth or a supplementary source? Knowing this will help you decide on the right type and power level. If the heater is your main source, you'll want something robust and reliable. For supplementary heat, a smaller, more portable option might do the trick. Understanding this helps ensure you don’t overspend on energy bills and that your heater effectively meets your needs.

Types of Heaters

Next up, let’s dive into the different types of heaters.

Whether you need a powerhouse for steady warmth or a nimble option for quick heat-ups, we’ve got you covered!

First Up..

Basic Heater Metrics!

Wattage

Alright, let’s dive into wattage—arguably the most important metric when deciding on the best heater for your space.

Wattage tells you how powerful your heater is, with higher wattage cranking out more heat. But hold up! You don’t want to blow your energy bill through the roof, so it’s super important to match the wattage to your room size.

As mentioned above, you can calculate the right wattage for your space by multiplying your room's square meterage by a factor of 100. Here are a couple of examples to help:

Different types of heaters have different wattage needs. A cosy little bathroom heater will need less power compared to a beastly outdoor heater that’s meant to warm up your patio. And hey, if you come across a small, tiny table electric heater that uses 2000W, take  a moment to think it over. That’s like bringing a bazooka to a water balloon fight—way too much power for a tiny space.

Energy Efficiency

Let’s talk about energy efficiency—the quiet superhero of home appliances. It’s all about how well your heater converts energy into heat. So, when you’re on the hunt for the best heater, look out for those energy-efficient models. They’ll keep you toasty without emptying your wallet!

Tips: Use your electric heater with a ceiling fan in reverse (winter mode) to circulate warm air more efficiently. It might seem a bit weird to use a fan in winter, but trust me, it works. The fan in reverse mode pushes that warm air from the ceiling right back down to where you need it.

Other Goodies/Features to Consider

Now that you know your wattage and heating needs, let's talk about the ✨ extras.✨

What other features can you add? Do you want wheels for easy mobility, low noise for peaceful nights, smart control for ultimate convenience, or all the bells and whistles?

Here are some things that the Lighting Illusions team thinks can make or break a heater.

Thermostat Control: This nifty feature, though basic, is essential. It lets you dial in the perfect temperature for your space, keeping things cosy without wasting energy. No more roasting like a marshmallow or shivering under blankets—just the right amount of warmth every time.

Portability: Look for heaters with built-in handles or wheels to make moving them around a breeze. It’s like having a warm hug wherever you go.

Noise Levels: Nobody wants a noisy heater, right? When choosing a heater, look for models with low noise levels. This is especially important if you’re planning to use it in the bedroom or other quiet spaces. You’ll stay warm without any annoying buzz or hum.

Smart Control: Hate getting up to adjust the temperature? Smart control heaters are your best friend. You can control the temperature from your phone or tablet, anytime, anywhere. It’s a total game-changer for those cold, lazy days when you just want to stay under the covers.

Safety Features: You can never be too safe! Modern heaters come with cool safety features like timed shut-off, cool-touch surfaces, and tip-over protection. These features help keep you and your loved ones safe, giving you peace of mind while staying warm.

Speaking of safety features of a heater…

Safety Tips for Heaters

We want you to stay warm and cozy, but it’s super important to keep things safe too. Whether you’re using the best heater on the market, an energy-efficient heater, a 2000W heater, an electric heater, a bathroom heater, or an outdoor heater, these tips will help you get the most out of your heating experience without any worries. Here are some friendly tips from us to make sure your heater use is spot on.

Proper Placement

First things first, placement is key.

To avoid the risk of a potential fire, make sure you place your heater away from any flammable objects like bedding, furniture, or curtains. A good rule of thumb is to keep it at least 1 meter away from anything that could catch fire.

This is especially important for electric heaters and powerful heaters, which generate a lot of heat. Proper placement of your heater, whether it's an energy-efficient heater or the best heater you can find, ensures safety and optimal performance.

Maintenance

Heaters need some TLC too! Regular maintenance is essential to keep your electric heater running safely and efficiently.  Make sure to clean the vents and filters regularly. This helps ensure your family stays warm and toasty all winter long.  For all types of heaters—whether it’s a bathroom heater, outdoor heater, or an energy-efficient heater—keeping them well-maintained will prolong their life and efficiency. A well-maintained heater is a happy heater, and it keeps your home safe.

Child and Pet Safety

Got little ones or furry friends running around? You’ll want to opt for heaters with built-in safety grills or cool-touch surfaces to prevent any accidents. Also, look for models with tip-over protection. This way, even if the heater gets knocked over, it won’t cause any harm. These features are crucial whether you have a bathroom heater, an outdoor heater, or a powerful 2000W heater. Keeping everyone safe while staying warm with the best heater choices is the priority.

Final Tips

Budget Considerations

When choosing the best heater for your needs, consider the features that matter the most to you. Are smart controls important? Do you prioritize energy efficiency or need a heater that operates quietly? Keep in mind that while some models might be cheaper upfront, they could end up costing more in the long run due to lower energy efficiency.

For example, an energy-efficient heater might cost more initially, but it will save you money on your energy bills over time. Whether you're looking at an electric heater, a 2000W heater, a bathroom heater, or an outdoor heater, balancing upfront costs with long-term savings is key.

Our Recommendation

Still can’t decide on a heater? Don’t sweat it! If you’re looking for a reliable and smart option, we recommend the Mercator IKUÜ Smart Indoor Heater. This heater combines efficiency, safety, and smart features, making it an excellent choice for various home heating needs. It’s perfect if you want the best heater with the convenience of smart control, ensuring you stay warm and cozy with minimal fuss.

Contact our online service team or visit one of our showrooms across South East Queensland to get tailored advice.

We’re here to help you find the perfect heater, whether it’s an energy-efficient heater, an electric heater, a 2000W heater, a bathroom heater, or an outdoor heater.