Collection: 1p Per Hour Heaters: Fact or Fiction?
1p Per Hour Electric Heaters: The Holy Grail of Heating or a Marketing Myth?
The 1p Per Hour Promise: A Siren Song
Let's be honest, we've all seen those tempting ads: "1p per hour electric heaters!" It's like a siren song, luring us in with the promise of cozy warmth without breaking the bank. But is it too good to be true?The Fine Print: Where the Magic Disappears
As with most things in life, the devil is in the details. Those 1p per hour claims often come with a few caveats:- Tiny Heaters: These heaters are often small, like the Beldray 700W Handy Plug-in Heater, which might be great for a small space but won't heat a whole room.
- Low Wattage: The low wattage means they produce less heat, so you'll need to run them for longer to feel the difference.
- Ideal Conditions: The 1p per hour calculation often assumes perfect conditions, like a well-insulated room and a low starting temperature.
The Reality Check: Energy Efficiency Matters
While those 1p per hour heaters might be tempting, they're not necessarily the most energy-efficient option. Martin Lewis himself has cautioned against relying solely on the 1p per hour claim.Looking Beyond the Hype: Choosing the Right Heater
So, what's a savvy consumer to do? Here's my advice:- Consider the Size: Choose a heater that's appropriate for the size of your room. Halogen heaters are good for smaller spaces, while convection heaters are better for larger rooms.
- Look for Energy Efficiency: Check the energy efficiency rating (usually an A-G scale) and opt for models with a higher rating.
- Smart Features: Consider smart heaters with features like timers and thermostats, which can help you save energy.