Convector or oil-filled radiator or what?

Ed_Jogg

I need some buying advice. In a nutshell, why should I buy an oil-filled radiator rather than a much cheaper convector heater?

We have a loft conversion that was done many years ago. Although there is a central heating radiator in the room, in cold weather it is still chilly, in the present cold snap, doubly so. Ideally the ceiling insulation would be upgraded, but it is beyond our present means. Hence I am looking for a way to make the room a little warmer for my son who's back from university for Christmas. We need a free-standing electric heater with a thermostat and, possibly, a timer. Since MSE readers seem to know everything, I thought this would be a good place to ask for advice (please?) ...

Vibrant

There isn't a noticable difference (IMOP) between the two types. Both provide a gentle background heat and providing they are thermostat controlled, are reasonably economical to run.
Convector heaters warm up a lot quicker than oil filled rads and usually look better. But oil filled rads give a slightly steadier level of heat.
Personally I prefer oil filled rads, but if I could find an old style coal effect convector heater, I would swap in an instant.

WestonDave

Some people find that convector heaters can make the air feel quite dry and that can be uncomfortable for some people (e.g. contact lens wearers). However as you are only wanting it as a top up to the other heating I wouldn't spend the extra on an oil radiator.

paddypaws101

We have convector heaters at work...and although they do have a thermostat I still find them 'all or nothing' ie too low and it is cold and too high then you feel like fainting...then too low again after!
At home I have a small oil radiator in my loft room and it takes the chill off nicely in a steady way...and really they are not expensive in Homebase etc

ormus

convector heaters also have exposed elements. these can and do break. also after a period of no use, they can smell a bit, of the dust burning off.

Viper_7

I'd also add that convector heaters usually "tic" as the elements expand contract. You don't get that when immersed in oil.

Said "ticking" noise, can be a tad irritating.

Ed_Jogg

I think we could cope with the ticking noise, but I had forgotten the smell. It's likely to be unused for long periods, and it'll be easier to dust an oil-filled, so maybe a cheap one of those would be a better bet.

Although...

This morning I was met by a 'vision' on the landing. Son had descended from the loft, all 6ft height and shoulder length hair (classic rock style) dressed just in his boxer shorts! And he hadn't found the new duvet that we'd bought for him!! Maybe he is more resilient than his mum thinks...

hartcjhart

paddypaws101 wrote: »

We have convector heaters at work...and although they do have a thermostat I still find them 'all or nothing' ie too low and it is cold and too high then you feel like fainting...then too low again after!
At home I have a small oil radiator in my loft room and it takes the chill off nicely in a steady way...and really they are not expensive in Homebase etc

agree about the convectors,when I am in the UK I stay(sleep) in a caravan in my Fathers garden and even with the snow and frost my oil filled rad keeps the caravan toasty warm:beer: