Heating, Cooling & Air Treatment Buying Guide

 As with a lot of things, the definition of the "perfect" heater is dependent on your circumstances.

By way of example: if you are looking to heat up a large space over a long period of time, then you probably should invest in a powerful and efficient heater - such as a flued gas heater - which, while comparatively expensive to install in the short-term, will be cheaper in the long run.

Or if you are looking for quick heat-ups in a relatively confined space - say, to heat up the bedroom after you step out of the shower and are dressing for work - then an electric heater with a fan-forced capability will be just peachy.

Environment:

Consider factors such as the size of the area you want to heat and how it will need to be used.

An open-plan space, for instance, will require a heater with a bit more grunt. Ditto if you have lots of large windows and/or bare floor-boards. Oh, and how's your insulation?

How much power do you need?

When choosing a heater, look for the amount of kW output. The manufacturer will include this figure on the spec sheets of each model.

Here's our Rule of Thumb (for Aussie households):

1kW output will heat about 9m2 of a difficult-to-heat room

1kW output will heat about 16m2 in milder conditions

Star Ratings:

Refer to the Energy Star Ratings for an independent assessment of the efficiency of your heater. The more stars it has, the greater the efficiency.

There are a number of different safety aspects you should be aware of.

First of all, check for built-in safety features such as cut-off switches (which will turn the heater off if it's tipped over or overheats) and flame-resistant and splash-proof cases.

You should also look for a heater that is physically stable and not too hot to touch, especially if you have small children or pets. Units with childproof controls are also available.

Convenience and functionality:

Obviously a broad area and depending on your preferences and requirements. However here are a few salient details we like to keep in mind: The more power levels available, the merrier.

A thermostat is great to have because it will let you adjust and maintain the desired temperature with accuracy. A timer is also pretty awesome because it'll enable you to turn the heater on/off automatically, for example, just before you get back from work in the evenings - so you can come home to a nice cosy warm place.

Electronic controls typically offer ease-of-use and the best functionality. Meanwhile, a remote control device is always handy.

Maneuverability:

The portability of your favourite appliances may become important, depending on your circumstances. Consider the possibility you may have to move your heater from room-to-room if not house-to-house - factoring in weight and whether it has wheels.

 At Appliances Online, you can choose a gas heater that runs either on Natural Gas or LPG.

Natural Gas: Economical, efficient and, once properly installed, ongoing fuel supply is ready and waiting for you.

However, it pays to be aware of a couple of issues:

Firstly - of course - you'll be limited by the fact not every home has a gas connection. You'll also be limited by the number and positioning of the gas bayonets in your home - with a standard hose attachment giving you about 1 to 2 metres of room to maneuver.

Secondly: Gas Heaters will produce combustion gases (pollutants).

If that sounds alarming, we apologise. but it's something to be aware of!

These gases may introduce carbon monoxide into your home while reducing the amount of oxygen. That's a risk in a confined space. You can deal with this issue safely in a couple of different ways:

Install a flue (a pipe or channel) that will convey exhaust gases outside. This will be a permanent installation which will require additional outlay and one which (we recommend) should be carried out by a licensed tradesperson. There are flu kits available on selected models at Appliances Online.

Ensure the space you're heating is very well-ventilated - if not actually (i.e. on a patio or al-fresco dining area). An unflued heater would definitely not be suitable for a bedroom.

There are gas safety regulations that apply specifically to the state of Victoria, that was made effective as per 1st December 2009. 

Flueless (portable) NG & LPG gas space heaters are not allowed to be installed in new domestic houses. Previously only NG was not allowed.

New bayonet points are not allowed to be installed.

Flueless heaters are only allowed to be installed when they are replacing an existing old flueless heater in an existing dwelling, and even then, only in LPG.

The new regulations further impose a limit on emissions of 2.5 ng/J of NO2 on flueless heaters that are permitted to be installed, half the Australian Standard (AS4553) limit of 5.0 ng/J.

Here's a rundown on the types of electric heating solutions we've got on offer at Appliances Online:

Convection Heaters:

Very energy efficient and typically ideal for heating large spaces that are frequently used, albeit for relatively short periods of time. Convection heaters incorporate a heating element and a heat transfer liquid. This liquid is sealed and never needs to be refilled. The liquid is used to store and transfer the heat to the room using the natural air circulation - however, convection heaters may include fans for greater air circulation.

Appliances Online have a selection of convection heaters, including oil column heaters, which use oil as the heat transfer element while also incorporating a fan for greater heat dispersal.