Heater buying guide
Last updated: 27 April 2026
Cold bedroom? Chilly living room? Need a heater that warms up fast, or one that’s cheaper to run over winter? From portable electric heaters to gas heating and reverse-cycle split systems, this guide makes it easy to compare your options and find the right fit for your home. Portable fan heaters are usually better for small spaces, panel and oil column heaters are popular for larger rooms, and reverse-cycle split systems are one of the most efficient options for ongoing heating.
Jump to: Types of Heaters | More tips for choosing a Heater | Shop Heaters | Other things to consider | Glossary | FAQs
Top FAQs
Best for small rooms → Fan heaters are a handy choice when you want quick warmth in spaces like bedrooms, studies or bathrooms.
Best for larger rooms → Panel heaters and oil column heaters are better suited to bigger living spaces where you want steady, comfortable warmth.
Best all-rounder → Reverse-cycle split systems heat in winter, cool in summer and can be highly energy efficient.
Cheapest to run → Gas can be economical in some homes, but high-efficiency reverse-cycle split systems can be even cheaper to run depending on the model and setup.
Click the cards below to learn more. Jump to all FAQs.
Find the best heater for your space, budget and lifestyle.
Compare fan, panel, oil column, gas and reverse-cycle heaters.
See which heaters suit bedrooms, living rooms, bathrooms and more.
Learn how to match heater power to your room size.
Which Heater is right for me?
The best heater for your home comes down to four simple things: the size of the room, how quickly you want it to warm up, whether you want to move it from room to room, and how often you’ll use it. If you only need a quick burst of heat in a small space, a compact portable heater can do the trick. If you want to keep a larger room comfortable for longer, it’s worth stepping up to a heater designed for broader, steadier heat output. Getting the size right matters too — heating and cooling can make up a big share of household energy use, so choosing the right capacity is better than simply buying the biggest model.
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Jump to types of Heaters to find the perfect match for your room and family.
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Learn all about the features to consider when choosing the ideal Heater for you.
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The right Heater for you also means finding the right price point. Check out the latest deals!
Types of Heaters
Not sure which is the best heater to keep your household snug? Understanding how the different types work – and their unique advantages – is the first step to finding your house-warming match.
Fan Heaters
Need warmth fast? Fan heaters are great for small rooms because they push warm air out quickly and are easy to move around the house. They’re a smart pick for bedrooms, home offices and short bursts of heat when the temperature drops. Shop Fan Heaters >
Panel Heaters
Panel heaters are a popular choice for larger rooms where you want more even, gentle warmth. They’re ideal when you want comfort that feels steady rather than intense. Shop Panel Heaters >
Oil Column Heaters
Oil column heaters take a little longer to warm up, but they keep radiating heat even after they’re switched off. That makes them a great option for bedrooms and living spaces where you want lasting warmth without blasting hot air around the room. Shop Oil Column Heaters >
Convector Heaters
Convector heaters warm the air, which then rises through the room. They can work especially well in low-ceiling spaces and are a good option when you want wider room coverage. Shop Convector Heaters >
Radiant Heaters
If you want direct personal warmth, radiant heaters are a simple and effective solution. They heat the area in front of you rather than the whole room, which makes them handy when you’re sitting in one spot. Shop Radiant Heaters >
Gas Heaters
Gas heaters can be a strong choice for homes already set up for gas, especially if running costs are a key consideration. Just keep in mind that different gas heater types have different ventilation and installation needs, and regular professional servicing is important for safe operation. Shop Gas Heaters >
Reverse-Cycle Split Systems
For year-round comfort, reverse-cycle split systems are hard to beat. They heat in winter, cool in summer and use inverter technology to maintain temperature efficiently. They also carry a Zoned Energy Rating Label so you can compare efficiency by climate zone and estimated annual energy use. Shop Reverse-Cycle Split Systems >
Heater and purifier combos
Want warmth and cleaner air in one appliance? Some combination models can heat, cool and purify the air, making them a handy option for households wanting multi-use comfort in one unit. Shop Air Purifier Heaters >
Outdoor Heaters
Love entertaining outside? Outdoor heaters help take the edge off chilly nights on the deck or patio. When choosing one, check the IP rating so you know how well it handles dust and moisture. Shop Outdoor Heaters >
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Beat the winter chills with these efficient home Heating Systems
March 28•5 mins readAs temperatures start to drop, there’s no better time to prepare for winter and choose the best heating solution for your home, that won’t break the bank. Whether you’re looking for electric heaters, gas heaters or a split system, we’ve got everything you need to ensure you feel comfortable, cosy and warm once winter arrives.
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How to create a warm and cosy home
June 17•4 mins readAs the days shorten and temperatures drop, it's time to embrace all the cosy magic that winter has to offer. From heating for creating a cosy, welcoming home, rich comfort food to snuggly nights in, this guide is your one-stop shop for making the most of the season.
With some expert tips, we’ll show you how to create the ultimate feel-good winter retreat - including the top electric heating essentials from Dyson, Delonghi, Dimplex, Rinnai and Noirot to keep you toasty all season. Now… let’s get your home winter-ready!
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Beat the heat! 5 of the best Reverse Cycle Air Conditioners
November 9•4 mins readAs summer comes upon us, it’s time crank up the air con. That means making sure you’ve got the best cooling solution installed at your place. Could this be a job for a reverse cycle air conditioner? For staying totally chill when it’s hot out (and wonderfully toasty in winter), this do-it-all appliance will get the job done and keep your energy bills down.
Need more tips on how to stay cool this summer? Check out our great value portable coolers here
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Warm welcome: best Heaters for staying cosy
April 4•4 mins readIs your home starting to feel like a fridge inside? Now is the time to sort out your home heating so you can keep the cold at bay this winter. To help you find the right heater for the job, we asked our seasonal expert Scott Bazley for a run-down on the latest heating solutions, plus the hot features you’ll want to stay toasty warm for less.
Whether you’re looking for a whisper-quiet panel heater to thaw your home office, a stylish air purifier that can heat and clean the air, or a safety-minded ceramic heater to keep things cosy in the bedroom all night, there’s a perfect house-warming hero for any space. So let’s meet the heaters!
First up, electric heaters…
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Finding the perfect Heater for your space
Best Heater for bedrooms
For bedrooms, a fan heater is great when you want quick warmth before bed, while an oil column heater is a good fit if you prefer gentler, longer-lasting heat. Timers and thermostats are especially handy here so you can stay comfy without overheating the room.
Best Heater for living rooms
For a living room, look at panel heaters, oil column heaters or a reverse-cycle split system. These options are better suited to bigger areas where the whole household wants to stay warm and comfortable for longer stretches.
Best Heater for a home office or study
If you’re warming one small space while you work, a compact fan heater is often the easiest answer. It heats up quickly and gives you warmth where you need it most.
Best Heater for bathrooms
Bathrooms usually suit heaters that warm the space quickly for short periods. Portable fan heaters are commonly used in bathrooms, and fixed bathroom heat lamps are another option for fast, short-use warmth where suitable.
Best Heater for outdoor entertaining
For alfresco areas, choose an outdoor heater designed for exterior use and check the IP rating before you buy. Wall-mounted models are a smart way to save floor space, while freestanding models are handy if you want flexibility.
What size Heater do I need?
As a simple guide, around 1000W to 1500W can be enough for a small room, while 2500W or more is a better starting point for a larger area. But room size is only part of the story. Ceiling height, insulation, window size and draughts all affect how hard your heater has to work, so it pays to match the heater to the room rather than guessing.
Still unsure? Think about how the room feels in winter. If it’s draughty, has big windows, or loses heat quickly, you may need a higher-capacity model — and you’ll also get better results by sealing gaps, closing curtains and improving insulation.
Finding the perfect Heater for your lifestyle
Some features are more than nice-to-haves — they can make your heater easier, safer and cheaper to live with.
Programmable thermostat: Helps keep the room at a steady temperature.
Timer: Great for bedrooms, morning warm-ups and evening shut-off.
Oscillation: Helps spread warmth across more of the room.
Humidifier: Can add moisture back into the air in drier rooms.
Air purifier: Handy if you want heating plus cleaner air.
Tilt-safety switch: Turns the heater off if it tips over.
Overheat shut-off: Stops the unit from overheating.
Filter clean alert: Helps maintain efficiency on compatible models.
Oxygen depletion safety device and flame-failure shut-off: Important gas-heater safety features.
Heater safety and placement tips
Where you place your heater matters. Portable electric heaters should sit on a flat, stable surface and stay clear of curtains, rugs, bedding and upholstered furniture. A convection heater near a window can help reduce the chill from draughts, while gas heaters should always be used and maintained with safety in mind. Unflued gas heaters need adequate ventilation, and all gas systems should be professionally serviced. For outdoor heating, choose a model made for the conditions and check the IP rating before installation.
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How to find the best home Heater for any space
June 5•3 mins readForget avoiding entire rooms that become cold boxes when the temperature plummets – the latest heaters are ready to warm every corner of your home (and the cockles of your heart). From portable electric heaters that resemble a crackling fireplace to energy-efficient gas heaters with inbuilt humidifiers and reverse cycle air conditioners for year-round comfort, there’s a cosy solution for every space. Here are our top picks.
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Top essentials for your winter survival kit
August 7•4 mins readBrrr! It’s cold out there. But don’t let the bitter chill outside dull the vibe at home. Thanks to the latest cold-busting, air-purifying and health-boosting appliances, you’ll not only survive, but thrive this winter. Focusing on your health and wellbeing at home means you’ll stand a better chance of coming out the other end of the cold and flu season unscathed. And if you do catch a case of the sniffles (or worse!), having the right tools in your winter survival kit can help lessen your symptoms so you’re back on your feet in no time. Here’s what you’ll need:
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Winter-proof your home with these Heating solutions
April 16•4 mins readThe nights are drawing in. There’s a sharp bite in the air. Hello, Winter. You make us want to put our key in the door and escape to a warm and snug sanctuary. “Cosy is a look as much as a feeling,” says Melbourne interior designer Camilla Molders of Camilla Molders Design. “When I think of cosy, it’s being wrapped up on a gorgeous, comfy sofa, inside a soft cashmere throw, with bright textiles all around me.” Get cosy with the latest winter décor trends and heating solutions to get you toasty in no time.
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Power down: Top tips for slashing your home energy bill
March 6•4 mins readIs your energy bill killing your buzz (and your household budget)? By simply rethinking your heating and cooling systems, upgrading to new appliances and adopting some energy-efficient habits, you could make a real difference to monthly outgoings.
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What is the best temperature for a good night’s sleep?
August 1•4 mins readLet’s face it, trying to achieve the perfect sleeping temperature creates a Goldilocks scenario. Whether it’s summer, winter or sometime in between, you need your bedroom to be not too hot, not too cold, but just right. If you’re in pursuit of the ideal indoor climate, then updating your home heating and cooling appliances should be top of your checklist for a good night’s sleep. The solution could be as simple as adding a space heater to zap the winter chill or investing in an air conditioner for year-round comfort.Are you ready to sleep like a baby? Our go-to guide on how to get a good night’s sleep is essential reading. We’ve spoken to a top Australian sleep expert and it turns out there’s a precise bedroom temperature that’s the magic slumber number.
Read on for our best sleeping tips.
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Guide to the best Split System Air Conditioners
February 3•6 mins readWhen it comes to heating and cooling your home, it can be challenging to find the right system for your needs. There are a lot of air conditioners on the market to choose from and they all offer different features and benefits. One of the most popular to install is a split system air conditioner. We’ve put together this handy guide to get you started and help you choose the best split system air conditioner for your home and lifestyle.
Heaters glossary
We’ll break down all the tech talk and acronyms that you need to know.
Tech talk | Definition |
|---|---|
Inverter Technology | Inverter systems use less energy to maintain a consistent temperature by adjusting the output power. Found in reverse cycle split systems. |
Oscillation | Moves the fan side-to-side to improve heat distribution and circulation in the room. |
Wattage (W) | An amount of power output for electric heaters. Higher wattage = more heat. |
Energy Star Rating | Government rating for electric heaters' energy efficiency when compared to similar products. More stars = better efficiency. |
Tilt-Safety Switch | A sensor that shuts off the heater automatically if it’s knocked over. |
Overheat Shut-Off Mechanism | Automatically turns off the heater to prevent overheating and potential hazards. |
IP rating | A guide to how well an outdoor heater resists dust and moisture. |
Flued Gas Heater | A gas heater that vents combustion gases outside through a flue. Flued models are generally safer than portable unflued gas heaters, and room-sealed flued models are the safest and most efficient gas option. |
Unflued Gas Heater | Also called a portable gas heater. These models don’t use a flue, so they need adequate ventilation for safe operation and are restricted or banned in some states. |
Natural Gas | Gas supplied to the home via a pipeline. If you’re choosing a gas heater, it must be designed for the type of gas available at your place. |
LPG | Liquefied petroleum gas, usually supplied in bottles or cylinders. A heater made for natural gas won’t work with LPG, and vice versa. |
Tilt-Safety Switch | A built-in safety feature that automatically turns the heater off if it’s knocked over. |
Overheat Shut-Off Mechanism | Automatically switches the heater off if it gets too hot, helping protect the unit and your home. |
Oxygen Depletion Safety Device | A gas-heater safety feature that senses low oxygen levels and shuts off the gas supply. |
Flame Failure Shut-Off | A gas-heater safety feature that cuts the gas supply if the flame goes out unexpectedly. |
Filter Clean Alert | A reminder on compatible heaters or air conditioners that lets you know when it’s time to clean the filter so the unit can keep working efficiently. |
FAQs
The best Heater for you will depend on your lifestyle, space and budget. If you are heating a smaller space like a bedroom or office, a fan heater will heat the space quickly. However, if you are targeting a larger area like a living room, kitchen or dining room, a radiant heater like a panel or oil column is often the best option.
The best Heater to keep you warm and cosy in the colder months depends on your space. Fan heaters are usually used in bedrooms, main living areas and bathrooms, while radiant heating is the best option for bigger rooms.
Gas heaters are typically the cheapest to run, although they require ventilation, while electric heaters don't. However, 5—and 6-star reverse cycle split systems can be even cheaper to run than gas heaters.
A fan heater is often the easiest answer for a small room because it warms the space quickly and doesn’t take up much room.
For bigger spaces like living rooms, panel heaters, oil column heaters and reverse-cycle split systems are usually a better fit because they deliver more even, sustained warmth.
They can be a great bedroom option if you prefer gentle heat that lingers after switch-off. They warm more slowly than a fan heater, but they’re popular for comfortable overnight room warmth before bed.
Often, yes. Reverse-cycle systems transfer heat rather than generating it directly, which is why they can be much more efficient than standard electric resistance heaters.
Some do. Portable unflued gas heaters in particular need adequate ventilation for safe use, and all gas heaters should be used and maintained according to the manufacturer’s instructions and local requirements.
The most useful features are usually a thermostat, timer and safety shut-off. If you want extra convenience, look for oscillation, filter alerts or air-purifying functions depending on the heater type.
Yes — fan heaters are one of the best options for smaller rooms because they push warm air out quickly and are easy to move where you need them.
For electric heaters, look for features like a tilt-safety switch and overheat shut-off. For gas heaters, useful extras include an oxygen depletion safety device and flame failure shut-off.
Not always. Higher wattage usually means more heat, but the best choice is the one that matches your room size and how the room holds warmth. Oversizing isn’t always the smartest move if the space is small or well insulated.
Yes — if you’re shopping for an outdoor heater, check the IP rating to understand how well it handles exposure to dust and moisture.