Heater choosing can be simplified

Press, 7 April 1987, Page 27

Heater choosing can be simplified

With the many attractive makes, models and types of electric heaters now available on the market it is not overly surprising that many homeowners are confused as to what type to pick.

There are many methods of electrical heating but often the type of room, its size and function are the factors that should dictate the type of heating used. "Aim for fully programmed comfort in the living rooms with background temperatures for hallways and bedroom areas, then treat special rooms — study rooms, bedrooms, bathrooms on their merits for intermittent heat,” advises a brochure prepared for the Waitemata Electric Power Board. Cost is a crucial factor in the heating calculations of all but a very small slice of the populace. According to Mr Colin de Lambert of the Christchurch M.E.D. cheap, but

reliable fan and radiant heaters are at present available for between $7O to $9O, while consumers after units with more power and capacity can pay anywhere up to $3OO or more for some models. For fan heaters in particular the larger fixedwire options are becoming

increasingly popular with consumers he reports.

Also still in the ascendant with the public are night-store heaters. “While night-store heaters have a relatively high initial capital cost that is gradually smoothed out by the lower running costs of night rate electricity,” he said.