
Get exclusive money-saving offers and guides
Straight to your inbox
We’re reader-supported and may be paid when you visit links to partner sites. We don’t compare all products in the market, but we’re working on it!
Worried about how high your energy bill might be this winter? Heating is one of the biggest parts of anybody's power bill during the colder months and choosing the right heater for your home and needs can potentially save you quite a bit.
In this guide, we compare a range of different electric and gas heaters, exploring which are the most cost-effective in keeping your heating budget down.
Heater type | Average hourly usage (kW/h) | Hourly running cost | Winter running cost (4 hours per day) |
---|---|---|---|
Electric blanket | 0.12 | $0.04 | $12.96 |
Oil-filled column heater | 1.6 | $0.47 | $167.40 |
Panel heater | 1.7 | $0.51 | $182.13 |
Fan heater | 1.9 | $0.56 | $202.50 |
Tower heater | 2.0 | $0.59 | $213.60 |
Convection heater | 2.1 | $0.63 | $226.80 |
Reverse cycle air conditioner | 3.5 | $1.04 | $373.09 |
Radiant bar heater | 3.8 | $1.14 | $410.40 |
Heater type | Average hourly usage (MJ/h) | Hourly running cost | Winter running cost (4 hours per day) |
---|---|---|---|
Radiant convection heater | 19 | $0.38 | $136.80 |
Convection heater | 20 | $0.40 | $144.00 |
Radiant bar heater | 35 | $0.70 | $252.00 |
According to these tables, an oil-filled column heater is the cheapest electric heater to run, while a radiant convection heater is the cheapest option when it comes to gas.
While we didn't have precise cost and usage data for the best heaters in 2020, we used data for extremely similar models, instead. In the following table, we assumed an average of 4 hours of heating use per day for all 90 days of winter to calculate the winter running cost.
Heater model | Heater RRP | Hourly running cost | Winter running cost |
---|---|---|---|
DeLonghi 2,400W Convection Heater (electric) | $139 | $0.72 | $259 |
DeLonghi 1,500W Dragon4 Oil Column Heater (electric) | $261 | $0.45 | $162 |
Rinnai AvengerPlus AV25PN (gas) | $1,858 | $0.48 | $173 |
DeLonghi 2,200W Panel Heater with Timer (electric) | $369 | $0.66 | $238 |
Kambrook 2,400W Upright Fan Heater (electric) | $46 | $0.72 | $259 |
Panasonic Reverse Cycle Split System | $949 | $0.96 | $346 |
Dyson HP04 Hot + Cool Purifying Fan Heater (electric) | $898 | $0.02 | $5 |
Here's how electric and gas heaters stack up against each other:
Feature | Electric heater | Gas heater |
---|---|---|
Operation method | Uses electric resistance to warm up heating elements | Combustion of natural gas |
Installation cost | Cheap – often below $500, almost always below $1,000 | Expensive – often starts around $700+ |
Running costs | Expensive – electricity rates are much higher than gas | Cheap – requires more units of gas for the same heat, but gas is still much cheaper overall |
Efficiency | 100% (in the heater itself) | 80-90% |
Safety concerns | Electrocution, electrical fires | Gas fumes (require a ventilated space) |
Environmental friendliness | Poor – mains power in Australia is largely generated by burning fossil fuels | Okay – gas heaters produce around 80% fewer emissions than electric heaters given Australia's energy mix |
There are a few benefits to a reverse cycle air conditioner versus a single-function heater. Here's what they offer:
If you're hoping to save on energy for heating and beyond, here are a few tips to follow:
For more energy-saving tips, check out our comprehensive guide to saving energy.
Our expert team has analysed hundreds of customer reviews of split system air conditioners to determine the best available in Australia for every budget and purpose.
Paying the bills isn't on time isn't always easy. Here's what you you need to look out for.
You’ll see kilowatt hours printed on your electricity bill – here’s what they are and why they matter.
Australians are set to spend millions on staying warm this winter, new research by Finder, Australia’s most visited comparison site, reveals. Find out how to save on your energy bill.
Decide whether electricity or gas is better for your home and wallet with this comprehensive guide.
Have a pool or planning to get one? Find out what parts are costing you the most money and how you can save with a few simple changes.
It's an Impreza-based SUV, with AWD, a trademark Boxer engine, the option of a hybrid, beefy suspension and ground clearance, and a well-reviewed off-road mode.
Using energy-efficient appliances could save you hundreds each year. These five appliances are costing you the most.
47% of Aussies are concerned about the cost of their next power bill, as lockdown restrictions cause energy usage to increase. Finder shares tips for how to lower your household energy usage.
Learn about the different types and features of electric blankets and how you can keep your family safe while staying warm.
Compare internet from over 50 providers in our broadband engine.
Check out our select picks of the best plans available.
Mobile broadband is fast becoming a viable alternative to fixed line.
Get an NBN connection on a budget with our curated list of plans.