Heaters can provide the additional heat you require to make your home warm and cosy. Making use of heaters may, however, be very costly and could be a direct result of the following elements:

• Choice or brand of heaters used
• Frequency of use
• Period of use
• Age of your heater (old or new)

This article will provide information on the various heater options available, and the factors you should consider prior to purchasing one.

Types of Heaters Available

There is no shortage when it comes to heater choices. There are, however, numerous commonly used brands readily available in the market, and they are mainly available in the following categories:

1.    Electrical heaters

Electric heaters are available in  choices namely

• Reverse cycle air conditioners
• Column heaters
• Convection heaters
• Radiant heaters
• Fan heaters
• Under floor heaters

2.    Open Fire Heaters

Open fire heaters not only warms up a room, but the ambiance created also warms up the mood as they are lovely to look at. Today, open fires are created with a variety of fuel choices depending on its availability, price, source, quality and application. Open fire heaters are used in fireplaces which may be permanently affixed or portable. Many consumers using wood as the fuel type do so as the energy bills of the household are not affected.

3.    Non airtight stoves

These types of heaters get very hot and usually are constructed as pot belly stoves. They supply radiant heat and have a lot of charm. These heaters are usually constructed of masonry rather than steel, and wood is the primary method of fuelling. Because of the hot fires created, they generate substantially reduced emissions.

4.    Slow combustion heaters

These heaters are usually available in various sizes including, small, medium and large. Today, inlet controls and airtight fireboxes are incorporated in this type of heater in order to control the quantity of air that enters the combustion chamber.

5.    Gas heaters

Gas heaters generate fewer greenhouse gasses compared to its electrical counterparts. They are also usually purchased because consumers believe they use less energy. Due to safety concerns, gas heaters are normally not used inside bedrooms. A variety of gas heater options are available in the consumer market today. These include:

• Portable
• Flued
• Gas log flame
• Energy savers

Heaters - Things to Consider Before Your Purchase

In order to make a smart choice in heaters, there are a few factors to which needs to be considered prior to a purchase. Individuals should determine:

• fuel type to be used
• the area size you want to heat

Consumer choices are very often influenced by the following factors:

• Convenience and comfort
• Reduced energy usage
• Saving on energy bills
• Price of the heater
• Energy star rating
• Environmental considerations

Your choice will therefore be influenced by the abovementioned factors. Ducting systems should also be considered, and although installation may initially be costly, it could be more cost effective over time.

Choosing a Supplier

Most large appliance companies will stock a variety of heater options. The type of brand, make, model, warranties and guarantees offered should play an important role in the purchasing decision. If unsure about which option to go for, use the Internet to conduct some research, ask your neighbours or speak to the sales personnel at the appliance store.

Conclusion

Most Australians households have some form of heating appliance or fixture. Today, consumers are spoiled for choice as a huge variety of heaters are available to suit each and every individual need.