Oil-filled radiator heaters (also known as column heaters or just radiator heaters) are one of the most efficient ways of heating up small to medium-sized rooms. These units are compact and lightweight and radiate heat by using thermal oil. Naturally, you will want to choose a heater that is powerful enough to heat up the home or office space you have in mind.
These heaters do not burn up oil, so you will not need to constantly worry about replacing it. They are electrically heated; the oil is used as a heat reservoir (i.e. a buffer), and not as a fuel. Oil has a relatively high specific heat capacity and a high boiling point; these qualities allow it to store a large amount of thermal energy in a small volume while remaining in liquid form.
When heated by the heating element, the oil will remain warm for prolonged periods of time, transferring the heat to the metal wall via convection, through the walls via conduction, and to your surroundings via convection and radiation.
The large surface area allows more air to come into contact with the heater at any given moment, allowing for the heat to be transferred more rapidly from the heater into the room. These heaters work via convection: the warm air they generate moves upwards, displacing the cold air to the bottom of the room, where it will, in turn, be heated to a warmer temperature.
The 10 Best Oil Filled Radiator Heaters:
We have compiled the 10 best oil-filled radiator heaters which are currently available on the market below. Each of them operates economically, quietly and safely, encased in sleek and stylish units that will visually complement the furniture and décor in your home and workplace:
1. DeLonghi EW7707CM Safe Heat Portable Oil-Filled Radiator Heater
| Dimensions | 25.2 x 13.78 x 9.06 inches |
|---|---|
| Weight | 23.15 pounds |
| Power (Wattage) | 700-1500 |
Pros:
- Compact elegant design
- Quality brand
- Good safety features
- Robust and rust-resistant
- Easy to operate
Cons:
- Some quality control concerns
The stylish DeLonghi Safeheat ComforTemp weighs approximately 23.4 pounds and is well-equipped to heat up medium to large-sized rooms in your home or office to 68-70 degrees Fahrenheit with its energy-saving ComforTemp setting (it also comes with two other heat settings).
The user-friendly control panel features an adjustable thermostat with an automatic antifreeze setting (which automatically turns the heater on if the temperature drops below 44 degrees Fahrenheit). Since it operates silently, it will not disturb your sleep, TV-watching or work.
You can be ensured of your safety with the thermal cut-off function, which prevents overheating, and design which encloses all heating elements to prevent direct contact.
Other features include heat slots that maintain a low surface temperature, rust-resistant metal construction, a rounded design with no sharp corners, easy snap out wheels that provide stability and portability, and a wraparound cord that allows for hassle-free storage.
2. Insignia HTRFBK6 Oil-Filled Radiator Heater
| Dimensions | 25.2 x 11.02 x 14.17 inches |
|---|---|
| Weight | 17.85 pounds |
| Power (Wattage) | 1500 |
Pros:
- Modern and stylish
- Remote control
- Compact
- Decent heat output for size
- Affordable
Cons:
- Tricky to achieve the perfect temperature
The Insignia NS-HTRFBK6 oil-filled radiator heater weighs only 17 pounds and can warm areas up to 144 square feet in size. It will visually complement any home or office with its sleek black design.
It runs on a 12.5 AMPs oil radiator, a 1500W radiator and comes with remote control. A tip-over switch helps to prevent overheating and protect your safety.
3. Aikoper 1500W Oil Filled Radiator Space Heater
| Dimensions | 26 x 15.5 x 7 inches |
|---|---|
| Weight | 19.75 pounds |
| Power (Wattage) | 600-1500 |
Pros:
- Remote control
- Timer
- Digital thermostat
- User-friendly
- Value for money
Cons:
- Some users were not happy with heat output and distribution
- Compact design might mean a compromise in power
This oil-filled radiator is a perfect choice for medium to large size rooms with its three settings varying from 600 to 1500 Watts of power as well as an ECO mode to keep everything environmentally friendly. The included remote control comes at great convenience since you can easily adjust and program a 24-hour cycle with any heating mode for how you want to keep your room at the perfect temperature at all times.
With tip-over protection and overheating safety features, you would never have to worry about leaving the radiator on or someone pushing it over on the ground. And if this wasn’t enough, the digital thermostat makes sure you keep your bills at a minimum, letting you choose the exact temperature you want and not a degree over or under.
At the competitive price presented, the Aikoper Space Heater 1500W is a great option for anyone looking for optimization of heat distribution in their home and making it as homey as possible, while also saving on their electric bills.
4. Pelonis Oil Radiator Space Heater
| Dimensions | 25.9 x 19 x 7.6 inches |
|---|---|
| Weight | 22.4 pounds |
| Power (Wattage) | 600-1500 |
Pros:
- Sleek modern design
- Good customer service
- Safe
- LED display
- User-friendly
Cons:
- Some reports of the thermostat making a noise
- Not the most accurate thermostat
Another choice on the higher end, the Pelonis oil filled heater is a fantastic option for anyone looking to optimize their electric bill, while still keeping their homes warm and cozy in the cold weather. Given the fact that this is a convection heater, it maximizes the flow of heat without the additional noise as well as a precisely set timer that helps for perfect cycles of heating without using more energy than needed.
A large LED display and remote makes the radiator easy to operate and to set to proper settings from 40-95 degrees F, and if you use the ECO mode provided you can assure the heater would not overdo on the electric bill. A bit on the higher end of the price range, this oil space heater is more than a permanent fantastic option for everyone looking to improve their room heating during the cold days and being child safe and pet safe with auto switch off tip-over functions makes it a great choice for every family.
5. Optimus H-6003 Mini Portable Oil Filled Radiator Heater
| Dimensions | 16 x 6 x 15 inches |
|---|---|
| Weight | 1 pound |
| Power (Wattage) | 700 |
Pros:
- Compact and portable
- Affordable
- Elegant modern look
Cons:
- Limited heat capacity
- Only suitable for small rooms
If you are looking for the ultimate portable mini solution to your heating problems look no further. The Optimus H-6003 portable oil filled heater is just here to serve all your needs the best way it can and it does it to the point.
With a 700 Watt heat output and thermostat control, you can easily heat up a small room or office space in the cold days. And if you are on the go it is so light you can move it around by the carry handle, which comes attached.
Like the song goes “ Everywhere you go, always take the weather with you” At the competitive price you get this great heater, it is an easy choice if you are looking for a budget decision for the cold days in the office. With the Optimus H-6003 Portable Radiator Heater, you will get the most out of a heater and also take it with you on the go.
6. COSTWAY Oil Filled Radiator Heater
| Dimensions | 5.50 x 12.00 x 14.00 inches |
|---|---|
| Weight | 8.60 pounds |
| Power (Wattage) | 700 |
Pros:
- Light, compact, and portable
- Low price
- Good after-sales service
- Quiet
- Adjustable thermostat
Cons:
- Will only heat a small room
- Basic functionality
If you are looking for an affordable budget option to heat a small room, this is one to consider. It is small and compact so is easy to move from room to room. It only produces 700 watts so do not expect it to warm a large room but it is ideal for small spaces.
This heater works silently and efficiently. Given the small size, it delivers decent heat in a small room. The heater has a power indicator as well as an adjustable thermostat. It warms up quickly for fast heat. Another advantage is that you can expect good customer service should you experience any problems.
You do not get any bells and whistles but this is a compact heater that comes at a good price if you only need to heat a small area.
7. NewAir Electric Oil-Filled Space Heater
| Dimensions | 13.5 x 9.5 x 25 inches |
|---|---|
| Weight | 19.2 pounds |
| Power (Wattage) | 1500 |
Pros:
- Decent heat output
- Value for money
- Timer
- Good safety features
- Adjustable heat settings
Cons:
- The top setting could be too hot in some areas
- Not the best remote control
If you need something with a bit more power for a larger space, the NewAir Electric Oil-Filled Space Heater is a popular option. Despite being slightly larger than some of the other options, the carry handles and casters make it easy to move if needed. It will quickly warm up a medium-sized room and efficiently keep it warm and cozy.
With 7 fins, it delivers consistent even heat throughout the room. It has all the necessary safety features and also has a handy timer. There are 3 heat options and 5 temperature settings to maintain the perfect warmth for the environment.
It comes with a remote control but there were some complaints that it is not the greatest quality.
8. Air Choice Oil Radiator Heater
| Dimensions | 16.85 x 13.78 x 5 inches |
|---|---|
| Weight | 8.63 pounds |
| Power (Wattage) | 700 |
Pros:
- Great price
- Light and compact
- Good warranty and support
- Decent modern design
- Low power consumption
Cons:
- Will not be effective in larger areas
Another affordable and compact option is this model from Air Choice. While is only suitable for smaller areas it is neat and small. The best part is that it is extremely efficient and does not consume a lot of power. This will save you over time. Once it heats up, it stays hot for a long time and will keep you comfortable.
It is silent and super easy to use. You can adjust the temperature according to your requirements.
9. Honeywell HZ-789 EnergySmart Electric Oil Filled Radiator Heater
| Dimensions | 13.7 x 9 x 24.4 inches |
|---|---|
| Weight | 19.7 pounds |
| Power (Wattage) | 1500 |
Pros:
- Energy efficient
- Totally silent
- Fair price
- Digital controls
- Adjustable thermostat
Cons:
- Some users had issues with the digital controls
- There were a few durability concerns
This is a popular highly rated choice. It is easy to use and delivers a good power of 1 500 watts. The digital control makes it highly user-friendly and it has an adjustable thermostat so you can dial in the perfect heat for the room that you are in.
It is not as compact as some of the less powerful models but still very light and easy to move if needed. It works in complete silence and the design and controls will help you to save money in the long run.
10. TANGKULA Electric Radiant Oil Heater
| Dimensions | 14 x 5.7 x 23 inches |
|---|---|
| Weight | 20 pounds |
| Power (Wattage) | 1500 |
Pros:
- Compact
- Adjustable heat control
- Energy-efficient
- Good safety features
- Portable
Cons:
- The cord is not very long
- Handles get quite hot
This compact oil filled radiator heater is well-priced and delivers decent heat for its size. It has 7 fins (thermal slots) to radiate comforting warmth. The heater is energy-efficient and adjustable allowing you to choose between 600, 900, and 1 500 watts of power output. This allows to you get the perfect temperature according to your needs.
The design makes it easy to move when necessary and the safety features are what you would expect from a quality oil heater. It works quickly and silently and is user-friendly.
What To Look For When Buying an Oil Filled Radiator Heater
There are plenty of oiled filled heaters on the market. Some over the top expensive with many functions and options included, and many which just get the job done. We have included a buyers’ guide down below to let you know and hopefully make you aware of some properties you might want to look for when you decide to go on and purchase one for your home or office.
An oil filled heater is a specific tool for heating on its own. There are many aspects to consider but mainly let us talk about how these heaters use oil to make heat.
Convection heating has been used for a long time in heating sources and oiled filled radiator heaters have been used for just as long to make our homes warm and welcoming without the use of anything more than electricity.
There are quite a few advantages when you opt for an oil-filled heater as well as some disadvantages and this is what this guide is made for. To make sure you make the right decision, next time you decide to get a new heater.
Quiet
Oil heaters are extremely quiet, unlike the electric ones, which act as blowers. The only noise you would hear from an Oil heater is the adjustment of the thermostat.
Safety Features
Many, if not all models, have plenty of safety features provided so no harm could come to your room, home, office, or any area you decide to heat up. Anti-tip-over measures are usually in place if you accidentally tip the heater over, in addition to overheating turn-off functions in case you forget you left the heater on at some point.
Energy Efficiency
If you want to save more than a few bucks on your power bill, then definitely opt for an oil-filled radiator heater. Not only do they use oil, which would never need to be changed, but also most models have ECO modes or are programmable to a point where it will save you every penny possible and not work an extra minute if the room you are trying to warm up is already at the desired temperature.
Digital thermostats and multiple programmable cycles are available in many models to let you pick what is best for your environment. Energy efficiency should be a deciding factor when looking for a heater.
Air Dryness
Unlike air electric heaters, oil-filled ones do not dry out the air and you do not need to open a window every once in a while, to let air in to move around the room because it might feel dry. Like air conditioners, fan-based heaters just turn to dry out the air in the room, while oiled heaters just take the same air and turn it to warm without suffocating the room.
Smell
A funny smell is common in oil appliances. Just like you might need a few cycles to rid your new oven from a fresh smell that smells like oil when it burns, oil-filled radiators might have the same exact issue at first until you get them going. But at the end of the day, it is a small price to pay for what they provide in terms of energy, heat, and bill savings.
Wrong Pick
Plenty of people make the wrong pick when it comes to oil heaters because they think the bigger the heater, the bigger the room they are going to be able to heat up.
At the same time, you could easily select a more convenient option of the many available on the market and have the same final result instead of spending a couple of hundred dollars more on a product you do not really need.
Ceramic vs Oil filed heater
There are advantages and disadvantages to both options. Both will keep you warm but you need to choose the ideal solution for your needs and environment.
A ceramic heater with a built-in fan is perfect for small areas and is a bit safer if you have children or pets. They work fairly quickly.
Oil heaters are better for larger spaces and are totally silent. They also help if you have allergies. If you want regular consistent heat for large rooms, an oil heater is probably the better option. They take some time to get going but once heated up they deliver good heat radiation. This can be adjusted according to your needs.
The important point is to invest in a heater that is suitable for the size of the room you wish to heat.
Oil Filled Radiator Heater FAQs
Are oil filled radiator heaters efficient?
They warm up relatively slowly but once warm, they remain that way for a long time with minimal power consumption. This makes them efficient and effective. The fins and general design allow them to radiate consistent heat throughout the room.
Are oil-filled heaters any good?
Are There Any Drawbacks to oil filled heaters?
What is the best oil filled radiator heater?
In our professional opinion, the best oil filled radiator heater is the 1500W oil filled radiator space heater from Aikoper. It has every setting one unconventional user might pick and at the same time, it is perfect for anyone looking for energy efficiency. The price is more than right and competitive.
What you see is what you get. A fantastic ribbed oil filled radiator which can heat up a medium to a large room to any temperature, without sucking the air out of it, a digital thermostat set to be adjusted at any point. And most of all it is safe for use by anyone, any place, anywhere.
Conclusion
Which heater works best to suit the heating needs of your office or home? Do also note that while these oil-filled radiator heaters have lower surface temperatures than their gas counterparts, you are still advised to ensure that there are no objects within three feet of it (especially fire risk items such as clothing).
Do also avoid placing them in damp areas such as bathrooms or laundry rooms, since high levels of moisture and humidity can damage the heater’s internal components.
With these safety precautions in mind, you will be able to sit back, enjoy the warmth, convenience, and cost savings they provide throughout the winter.