Staying warm during the colder months doesn't need to break the bank. With energy prices still a major concern, finding the cheapest electric heater in 2025 is a priority for many households. But "cheap" can mean two things: the lowest upfront cost or the most energy-efficient electric heater that saves money in the long run.
In this guide, we'll explore the most affordable types of electric heaters, compare their running costs, and help you choose the right option for your home.
Why Choose An Electric Heater In 2025?
Electric heaters remain popular because they're:
- Affordable upfront - Cheaper to buy than gas or central heating upgrades.
- Portable & versatile - Easy to move from room to room.
- Safe & reliable - Built with auto shut-off, tip-over protection, and modern designs.
- Efficient for small spaces - Ideal for heating bedrooms, offices, and conservatories.
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What Is The Cheapest Type Of Electric Heater?
When looking for the cheapest heater in 2025, consider purchase cost, running cost, and efficiency. Let's compare:
1. Fan Heaters - Best For Low Upfront Cost
Fan heaters are usually the cheapest electric heaters to buy. They use a heating element and a fan to blow hot air around the room.
- Pros: Very cheap upfront (often under £20), lightweight, portable.
- Cons: Higher running costs, noisy, not ideal for long-term heating.
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2. Halogen Heaters - Cheap To Run For Spot Heating
Halogen heaters use infrared heating tubes to provide direct warmth, making them one of the cheapest heaters to run per hour.
- Pros: Low energy consumption, instant heat, affordable price.
- Cons: Best for small areas or personal use, not whole rooms.
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3. Oil-Filled Radiators - Energy Efficient For Long Use
While more expensive upfront, oil filled heaters are very energy efficient. They retain heat even after being switched off, reducing electricity use.
- Pros: Great for all-night heating, quiet operation, steady warmth.
- Cons: Slightly slower to heat up, larger than fan/halogen heaters.
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4. Convector Heaters - Balanced Price & Performance
Convector heaters warm air naturally and are a middle ground between cheap fan heaters and efficient oil radiators.
- Pros: Affordable, quick heating, lightweight.
- Cons: Heat disperses quickly once switched off.
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Running Costs: What's The Cheapest Heater To Run In 2025?
The real cost isn't just the purchase price - it's how much electricity it uses. On average, UK electricity rates in 2025 (~30p per kWh):
| Heater Type | Average Power | Cost per Hour | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fan Heater | 2000W | ~60p/hour | Short bursts of heat |
| Halogen Heater | 400–1200W | ~12p–36p/hour | Personal heating |
| Oil Filled Radiator | 1000–2000W | ~30p–60p/hour | Overnight/long use |
| Convector Heater | 1500–2000W | ~45p–60p/hour | Medium rooms |
The Verdict: Cheapest Electric Heater In 2025
- Cheapest To Buy: Fan Heaters - Perfect for short-term use and low budgets.
- Cheapest To Run: Halogen Heaters - Best for personal heating and small spaces.
- Best Long-Term Value: Oil Filled Radiators - Energy-efficient, steady warmth, and ideal for overnight use.
If you want quick heat for occasional use, go for a fan heater. For the lowest running cost, a halogen heater is your best bet. But if you're looking for all-round affordability and efficiency, an oil filled radiator is the smartest choice in 2025.
FAQs - Cheapest Electric Heaters In 2025
1. What Type Of Electric Heater Uses The Least Electricity?
Halogen heaters generally use the least electricity per hour, as they focus on heating people directly rather than the entire room.
2. Are Oil Filled Radiators Cheaper To Run Than Fan Heaters?
Yes. While oil radiators use more watts, they retain heat longer, meaning they don't need to stay on constantly.
3. What's The Safest Cheap Electric Heater?
Oil filled radiators are considered the safest, as they don't have exposed heating elements and have tip-over/overheat protection.
4. Can A Halogen Heater Heat A Whole Room?
Not effectively. They're best for small areas or personal heating rather than full-room coverage.
5. What's The Best Budget Electric Heater For Bedrooms?
An oil filled radiator - it's silent, energy-efficient, and keeps rooms warm overnight.
Conclusion: Find The Cheapest Electric Heater For Your Needs
In 2025, the cheapest electric heater depends on your priorities:
- Upfront savings: Fan heaters
- Lowest running costs: Halogen heaters
- Best value overall: Oil filled radiators
