When it’s freezing cold in the winter, all you really want to do is snuggle up in your plush blanket, drink your favorite hot mocha, and just relax in front of that room heater. But among the numerous room heaters available in the market, choosing one that gives you the right warmth and keeps your room comfortable is a difficult task. And if you have to choose between an oil filled room heater and a halogen room heater, it is sure to get confusing. But then again, we are here to help you choose between the two.
Let’s understand both oil filled and halogen room heaters.
Oil filled room heater:
Oil-filled room heaters are a popular choice for providing consistent and long-lasting heat. It operates by heating oil sealed inside the unit, which then transmits the heat to the surrounding space through convection. These heaters are known for their silent operation and efficient heat retention, making them ideal for bedrooms and living spaces. Since they do not rely on open heating elements, they are safer and do not dry out the air, ensuring a more comfortable environment. While they take a little longer to heat up than other types of heaters, their steady and even heat makes them a reliable choice during the colder months.
Top Choices for Oil Filled Heaters:
Also read: Top 10 Room Heaters with Oil at Unforgettable Prices: Buying Guide
Halogen Room Heater:
Halogen room heaters are compact and cost-effective devices designed to provide instant heat. They use halogen-filled tubes that emit infrared radiation, which directly heat objects and people in their path, rather than the air in the room. This targeted heating makes them ideal for small spaces or personal use. Lightweight and portable, halogen heaters are energy-efficient for short-term heating, but may not be as effective for maintaining heat over long periods of time. They often feature a simple design and multiple heating settings, although their exposed heating elements require careful handling to ensure safety.
Top Choices for Halogen Room Heaters
Also read: Best Room Heater Brands in India: Top 10 Heating Solutions
Table of benefits of both oil filled and halogen room heaters
|
Speciality |
oil filled room heater |
halogen room heater |
| heating capacity | Provides slow, consistent and evenly distributed heat. | Provides instant heat but only heats the immediate area. |
| energy efficiency | More energy-efficient for extended use due to retained heat. | Consumes low energy but is suitable for short-term use. |
| noise level | Operates quietly, ideal for bedrooms or quiet environments. | Emits less noise, although generally negligible. |
| air quality | Does not dry the air, maintains humidity levels. | The air may become slightly dry, which will affect comfort over time. |
| Security | Safe for long term use; The outer part remains relatively cool. | Heats quickly but may pose a burn risk on contact. |
| portability | Heavy and bulky, but often have wheels for easy movement. | Lightweight and compact, easy to carry around. |
| Environment | Suitable for large rooms; The heat persists after the power is turned off. | Best for small spaces or quick heating needs. |
| aesthetics | Neutral, functional design with minimal light emissions. | This emits bright light, which can be distracting at night. |
| Cost | Higher upfront costs, lower operating costs over time. | Low initial cost, high operating costs for extended use. |
| space required | Solar panels require outdoor space | Compact, indoor installation possible |
Also read: Best Room Heater Brands in India: Top 10 Heating Solutions
Comparison between Oil Filled Room Heater and Halogen Room Heater:
Heating Method:
Oil-filled room heaters use convection to heat the oil inside the unit, which then circulates the heat throughout the room. They provide consistent, ambient heat suitable for long periods of use. Halogen heaters, on the other hand, use infrared technology to heat objects and people directly in their line of sight, making them ideal for instant spot heating. Oil-filled heaters are better for larger areas due to their even heat distribution, while halogen heaters are more efficient for smaller, localized spaces. Overall, oil-filled heaters are better for heating an entire room, while halogen heaters excel at concentrated, short-term heat.
Also read: Top room heaters: 10 premium options to match your tastes
Heat-up time:
Halogen heaters heat up almost instantly due to their infrared technology, providing instant heat as soon as they are turned on. In contrast, oil-filled heaters take longer to heat up, because the oil inside the unit needs to be heated first before spreading heat into the room. This slow process may take 15-20 minutes to take full effect. However, the fast heat-up time of halogen heaters is best for quick, short-term heating needs, while oil-filled heaters are more suitable for continuous heating over longer periods, despite the initial delay.
Also read: Bajaj Room Heater: Choose from our top 10 options that guarantee warmth this winter
Heat Retention:
Oil filled heaters retain heat well due to the high thermal capacity of the oil inside. Even after being switched off, they continue to emit heat for some time, making them energy-efficient in maintaining the room temperature. However, halogen heaters lose heat shortly after being turned off, as their heat is directly linked to their active operation. This makes oil-filled heaters a better choice for sustained heating needs and reducing electricity usage over time, whereas halogen heaters are less effective at maintaining long-term heat without continuous operation.
Security:
Oil-filled heaters are generally safe due to their lower surface temperatures and lack of exposed heating elements, reducing the risk of burns or fire. They often include features such as tip-over protection and overheat shut-off. Halogen heaters, with exposed heating elements, pose a greater risk of burns and require careful placement to avoid contact with flammable materials. Many modern halogen heaters include safety features, but they are less safe overall than oil-filled heaters, especially in homes with children or pets.
Air Dryness:
Oil-filled heaters don’t dry out the air because they use radiant heat instead of blowing hot air. This makes them ideal for maintaining a comfortable humidity level in the room. Halogen heaters, although less drying than fan-based heaters, can still reduce the humidity in the air slightly due to the heat they produce. For individuals sensitive to dry air, oil-filled heaters are a better choice, as they preserve a more natural indoor environment.
Portability:
Halogen heaters are generally lightweight and compact, making them easy to carry around and ideal for quickly heating different areas. Oil-filled heaters are bulky and heavy due to their oil-filled radiators, which can make portability more challenging, despite built-in wheels. If mobility and flexibility are priorities, halogen heaters are the more practical choice, while oil-filled heaters are better suited to semi-permanent placement in a room.
conclusion: However, both the room heaters provide enough warmth and warmth to beat the winter chill. The choice between oil filled heaters and halogen heaters depends entirely on your room size and budget. If you are looking for a room heater that will keep your large room warm for a long time, choose an oil-filled heater. On the other hand, a halogen heater can only heat a limited space or area.
More Room Heaters for you:
FAQ on Comparison between Oil Filled and Halogen Heaters
- Which heater is better for quick heating?
Halogen heaters are ideal for instant heat in small, enclosed spaces or for heating specific areas.
- Can I use any heater overnight?
Oil filled heaters: Yes, these are safe for overnight use due to their steady and controlled heat output. Halogen heaters: Not recommended for overnight use as they can pose a fire hazard if accidentally turned over or left too close to flammable materials.
- Which heater is more cost effective?
Initial Investment: Halogen heaters are cheaper to buy. Running costs: Oil-filled heaters are more energy-efficient in the long run, leading to lower electricity bills for regular use.
- Do these heaters require maintenance?
Oil filled heaters: Minimal maintenance; There is no need to refill the oil as the oil is sealed. Halogen heater: The heating elements (tubes) may require replacement from time to time.
- Are these heaters safe for children and pets?
Oil-filled heaters: Yes, since the surface does not get extremely hot, making them safe. Halogen heaters: Less safe due to high heat on the surface and direct contact with the heating element.
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