Choosing a heater for the bathroom - how to integrate it into the interior

Updated: 02/22/2021 12:42:17

Expert: Evgeny Mikhailovich Obolensky

*Review of the best according to the editors of expertology.ru. About the selection criteria. This material is subjective in nature, does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.

For a comfortable stay in the bathroom, many resort to installing an additional heater to increase the air temperature at which a wet body will not be cold. If this is a private house, then all the more necessary is sufficient heating of such a room, otherwise you can even get sick in it. We have figured out how to choose a bathroom heater and offer you specific advice, as well as a list of models tested by customers. This will help you go shopping wisely and purchase equipment that is suitable specifically for your conditions and preferences.

How to choose a bathroom heater

So, let's start with tips on how to choose a heater for a bathroom, which will help you understand the main characteristics of the product:

1. Power and heating area
   . Two inextricably linked parameters. The higher the power, the larger the room you can heat with such a device. The calculated value for additional heating (when there is a coil from a centralized system) is 100 W per 1 m². If we are talking about a room that has no heating at all, then the power is selected according to the scheme 150 W per 1 m².
2. Dimensions.
   The dimensions of the heater can be from 30x30 cm to 150x40 cm, which is important to consider based on the availability of free space in the bathroom, otherwise it will be impossible to turn around in the room.
3. Installation method
   . The heater can be installed on the floor, wall or ceiling. Here again everything depends on the size of the room and its clutter. Ceiling models do not take up any extra space at all, but are subject to greater exposure to steam, and therefore corrosion occurs faster.
4. Moisture resistance
   . The housing seal level varies from IP22 to IP65. The minimum value means that the housing should not be splashed with water. Maximum means that the heater can be sprayed with jets of liquid at any angle. This protects the electrical appliance from damage and also increases the safety of use in the bathroom.
5. The presence of a thermostat
   . The built-in module allows you to maintain the set air temperature and turns off once it is reached. This saves energy. Without it, the heater will be constantly on.
6. Type of control
   . Mechanical control is simpler, but operates with a greater error in heating degrees. Electronic control is more complex, but is capable of maintaining the set temperature with maximum accuracy.
7. Additional functions and equipment
   . Overheat protection will prevent the device from catching fire. The display allows you to visually monitor the temperature and entered settings. Tip-over protection will turn off the power if the unit is accidentally dropped. Devices with Wi-Fi can be turned on in advance via your smartphone so that the bathroom is warmed up when you arrive home. Frost protection will help maintain a positive temperature in the room and prevent communications from freezing. Locking the buttons will prevent children from changing the settings. The timer is convenient for turning off automatically so you don't have to think about it when you leave the bathroom.

Now you know the basic criteria for choosing a heater for use in the bathroom. Consideration of specific models selected by experts based on characteristics on the analytical portal https://rankquality.com/radiators/ and reviews will help you find a suitable option for a specific location.

Requirements for heating equipment

Appliances for heating bathrooms must meet certain requirements:

1. Resistant to temperature changes.
2. Complete safety when working in damp areas, as well as when exposed to splashes.
3. The materials from which heating devices are made must be resistant to corrosion.
4. Compactness, since most often the size of bathrooms is small.
5. Power that is enough to heat the desired room.
6. Aesthetic appearance.

Rating of the best bathroom heaters

Other ways to heat bathrooms

In addition to the listed methods of heating wet rooms, there are the following:

• warm floor;
• hot baseboard;
• electric heated towel rail.

Warm floor

Heated floors are installed in 2 ways: using electric plates or water heating. The first are a zigzag cable to which wires are connected. This plate is laid on the prepared subfloor surface and ceramic tiles are laid.

For water heated floors, a flexible metal-plastic pipe is used, which is laid in a loop on the rough surface and covered with tiles or other facing material.

The benefits include:

• comfort;
• reliability;
• does not take up space;
• no additional heating required;
• secure system.

Manufacturers provide a 15-year warranty on the operation of electric heated floors.

The thermostat allows you to heat the floors to the set temperature. The room warms up evenly and does not burn your feet. This type of heating is ideal for the bathroom.

Hot baseboard

The device is installed instead of a regular baseboard; it does not differ from the usual decor, but there is a heating element inside it.

Electric plinth sections are made of porous stones

The device is installed in places of high humidity or under a towel holder. The heater does not take up additional space and warms the room well.

Electric heated towel rail

These devices are distinguished by coolant:

• liquid;
• cable

Liquid heated towel rails are designed like an oil heater. Synthetic or mineral oil is filled inside, which is heated by a heating element. This device is heavy, so before attaching it, the wall is checked for reliability and, if necessary, strengthened.

The design of the liquid heater does not contain rotating elements

The power of the device is 300-600 W, the surface of the device heats up to 70 0C.

Cable heated towel rails consist of a body and a heating wire. The surface protects the electrical wire from moisture and allows manufacturers to produce models with rotating holders.

The low weight of the device allows it to be installed in any convenient place

Device power 60-120 W. The air temperature reaches 650 °C. The economical device heats up quickly and cools down quickly.

The best convector heaters for the bathroom

The principle of operation of the convector is to start the circulation of hot and cold air naturally (hot air rises to the top, and cold air is drawn in from below). This ensures uniform heating in the room so that taking a bath becomes more comfortable, regardless of where the heater is located.

Noirot Spot E-5 Plus 1000

Rating: 4.9

This is a powerful heater, convector type, generating 1000 W, which is enough for a spacious bathroom with an area of ​​10-15 m². The model is equipped with electronic control and thermostat. There is a digital screen and temperature control buttons in the upper right corner. Users in their reviews share that it is very easy to understand the settings and you can master everything without instructions. The heater is mounted on the wall in the bathroom, but it comes with legs (at an additional cost), so the convector can be made mobile. The heater is capable of operating in three modes. Among the protective functions there are: shutdown when overheating and maintaining a positive temperature in case users leave home for a long time.

Buyers in the reviews like the heater for its ratio of size and heated area. With dimensions of 42x44x8 cm, it is enough for a huge room of 15 m². If the convector is placed on the wall, it will not attract attention and you can completely forget about its existence.

Advantages

• high-quality French assembly;
• safe operation due to the waterproof housing;
• bright display;
• easy to understand controls.

Flaws

• high price;
• When you first turn it on, you hear an unpleasant smell.

Nobo NFK 4S 07

Rating: 4.8

In second place is a heater with dimensions of 62x40 cm, equipped with a snow-white panel with three slots in the upper part, accelerating the release of hot air. The bathroom model consumes 750 W per hour and is designed for a room area of ​​up to 11 m². It has electronic controls, but no screen. The temperature is adjusted using a slider on the back of the case, under which there is a scale with degrees. The heater operates in two modes. The kit includes a bracket for mounting to the wall. Installation on legs is possible as an option. If the device is turned over, the fall protection will work. It also has shutdown functions in case of overheating and maintaining a positive temperature in cold weather.

The model attracted experts with its ultra-thin 55 mm case. Competitors with similar power have heater thicknesses that are usually 70-100 mm. With a parameter of 5.5 cm, the convector protrudes minimally from the wall, which saves usable space in the bathroom and reduces the likelihood of accidentally catching your knee on it.

Advantages

• simple installation with 4 dowels;
• built-in thermostat and electronic control;
• simple temperature adjustment according to the drawn scale;
• thin body.

Flaws

• legs are purchased separately;
• high price;
• no display.

Pros and cons of wall heaters

The advantages of such devices include the following characteristics:

1. Highly environmentally friendly wall-mounted electrical appliances. All considered types of wall heaters, as a rule, are made of high-quality materials that, when heated, do not become a source of toxins and other harmful substances.
2. Affordable price.
3. Fire safety and moisture resistance. As a rule, all bathroom heating devices are capable of operating in high humidity conditions. Thanks to the thermostat, they turn off and turn on again in time.
4. Cost-effective and efficient. The types of wall heaters under consideration heat the room quickly enough and at the same time consume little electricity.
5. Aesthetics and attractive appearance. All modern types of wall heaters look quite neat and are easily combined with any interior style.
6. Compactness. Since these devices are wall-mounted, they require absolutely no space, but still do their job perfectly.
7. Simplicity and ease of use. Absolutely all modern heater models are equipped with an automatic heat regulator. Some more expensive models are also equipped with a timer, Restart function, remote control and other convenient functions.

As for the disadvantages of these devices, they are generally absent. The only thing that should be noted is that in houses where power is often cut off, the use of such heaters is irrational.

The best infrared heaters for the bathroom

Equipment with infrared rays heats the person directly, so the heat begins to be felt immediately after switching on. There is no need to wait for the bathroom to warm up.

Timberk TCH A03 800

Rating: 4.9

This is a heater for use in the bathroom that generates infrared heat from two elongated blocks with an increased area due to the cellular structure. The panel is designed for ceiling installation and the placement height is allowed up to 2.5 m. With a power of 1000 W, the heater is capable of heating a bathroom with a room area of ​​up to 12 m². There are no buttons or switches on the case, which increases its tightness and protection from steam. But the device cannot regulate the temperature on its own; you will need to purchase an additional thermostat. Judging by the reviews, users like that the device quickly warms up the room. The ceiling heater has a directional effect, so it can be placed as far as possible from the area where steam and condensation rise, but installed at an angle so that the heat rays shine directly on the user.

In our opinion, the product outperforms other ceiling models in terms of the thinness of the body. The panel height is 45 mm. This facilitates neat placement on the ceiling so that nothing sticks out on it.

Advantages

• silent operation;
• does not dry out the air;
• quickly warms up the room;
• Installation at an angle is allowed.

Flaws

• large dimensions 164x14x4.5 cm;
• only one operating mode;
• weighs 6.7 kg;
• no thermostat.

Determining the power of heating equipment

In order not to make a mistake with the purchased device, first of all you will need to decide on its power. Since the ability of the equipment to heat a room of the required area depends on it.

Before you buy a heater for your bathroom , it’s a good idea to measure the room. And in the store make your choice based on these indicators:

1. 500 W will be required to heat about 5-6 sq.m.
2. 700-800 W – for 7-9 sq.m.
3. 900-1100 W – 11 sq.m.
4. 1250 W – 12-14 sq.m.
5. 1500 W can heat a room of 16 sq.m.
6. 1750 W – 18-19 sq.m.
7. 2000 W will heat 20-23 sq.m.
8. 2500 W will heat a room of 24-27 sq.m.

Heliosa EH110/FM

The best efficiency of the device Country: Italy Average price: 10,000 rubles.
Rating (2020): 4.9 The development belongs to the type of infrared (IR) heating devices and can be installed both in bathrooms or bathhouses, and in open areas. The device has a classic design for this type and is light in weight (2 kg). Its most important advantage is its high water protection class IP23.

Another important feature is cost-effectiveness. The device can be used for zonal heating of a room area, in particular, a bath sector or a place for drying clothes. In addition, heated objects retain heat for a long time, gradually saturating the air with it. The presence of a special stainless steel grill in the design protects against burns. Among the advantages of the model, owners highlight the durability of the lamps, a durable steel case that protects them from mechanical stress. The only disadvantage of the IR device is its high cost, but its performance and long service life make it popular among consumers.

Bathroom radiator design

The radiator is often seen as an additional decoration of the bathroom, so there are many different models to choose from, not only white and black, but also red, blue, orange, pink, etc. The radiator can be coated with a layer of chrome or lacquer, some have a matte finish or metallized. The best thing about a bathroom radiator is that it looks elegant and at the same time blends in with other furnishings and creates a cohesive whole with them.

If you primarily want the radiator to look good, you need to find a suitable model among decorative radiators. They have unusual shapes and colors.

AEG WKL 753 S

Model with automatic climate control Country: Sweden Average price: 6200 rub.
Rating (2020): 4.6 The convector-type device features an optimal power of 750 W for the bathroom, a moisture-proof housing, looks aesthetically pleasing, and the device is safe for health. A significant advantage of the design is that it is equipped with a remote control and the possibility of automatic climate control. The operation of the device is based on mechanical control, which even a beginner in operating such equipment will quickly master.

In reviews, the owners of the model indicate the presence of a thermostat, which helps create a comfortable microclimate near the bathtub. A special fuse protects the device from overheating and the consequences of power surges. Among the disadvantages are the lack of a timer, the weight is 4.2 kg, so it is recommended to mount the accessory on the wall not above your head. In general, the build quality of the product and equipment correspond to its price.

Where can quartz heaters be mounted?

According to the method of mounting, wall and floor heaters are distinguished. In the first case, the unit is mounted using brackets and fittings for fastening. The product can be hung directly from the ceiling. In the second case, the kit includes a movable floor stand.

If a monolithic floor heater is placed too close to the floor, this will impede the air flow (after all, it heats according to the convection principle). Therefore, you should leave a distance of approximately 20 cm between the floor and the device.

Quartz heater for home: types of device

The definition of “quartz heater” includes two types of devices:

1. Infrared devices.

   They have some similarities with “Ilyich bulbs”, since they are a tubular element placed in a quartz glass housing. Inside the structure is a twisted tungsten/carbon/nichrome filament.

2. Monolithic panels.

   These are solid quartz sand slabs. There is a heating element inside the device.

   Read also:  Which heat gun is better to choose: diesel, gas or electric?

In both designs, the operating principle is based on infrared radiation. The only differences between them are the wavelength and heating efficiency.

We also add that an infrared heater emits radiation that heats objects in the room. And in a monolithic device, the heating element heats the plate to 90 degrees and turns it into a powerful IR emitter. The airflow convention then distributes the heat.

Both devices belong to the energy-saving group, but each of them consumes a different amount of electricity. Quartz heaters come in wall and ceiling types. Under certain conditions, the efficiency of the units depends on the installation method.

Infrared quartz heater: pros and cons

Infrared heaters are much more productive than convection heaters. They have a directional effect that works the same way as the sun's rays. Objects and people exposed to radiation begin to immediately feel warm. And when heated, they transfer heat to the atmosphere. Thus, people do not waste electricity “in emptiness”, only on heating the air. In addition, heat is concentrated not under the ceiling, as with convection, but near the floor, since infrared radiation hits it.

Infrared quartz heaters are good for the following reasons:

• silent operation;
• a light weight;
• The device is easy to install;
• environmental friendliness;
• inertia;
• the presence of a thermostat and the possibility of remote control;
• you can direct radiation to heat a certain part of the room;
• good value for money.

The units have only one drawback - a bright glow.

On the one hand, it can be used instead of a lamp. But on the other hand, such light will definitely not let you sleep. Therefore, for the night you need to either buy another heating device, or put up with the cold in the morning.

Monolithic quartz heater: pros and cons

A monolithic heater looks like a flat rectangular panel no more than 25-30 mm thick. The heater can be wall-mounted or floor-mounted.

Closed monolithic devices combine the convention and infrared operating principle. When heated, the stove becomes a source of infrared radiation. At the same time, due to its dimensions, it carries out active convective heat exchange with the surrounding air.

Among the advantages of the product:

1. The surface of the slab can be repainted (usually the manufacturer informs about this possibility in the instructions).
2. The device lasts a long time because the heating element is isolated from the external environment.
3. Quartz heaters for home are energy saving.
4. Most models are equipped with a temperature sensor.
5. The risk of fire is minimal.
6. Since the heating element is insulated, the device is suitable for any room.
7. If the unit falls and the heating element depressurizes, toxic substances will not enter the air.

Monolithic home heaters can warm up to maximum temperature in 20 minutes. And after switching off, they retain heat for 1.5 hours.

Disadvantages of monolithic quartz heaters for home:

• they are heavy (some weigh 13 kg), so they are difficult to move;
• difficult to install due to weight (plasterboard walls will not withstand the load);
• the surface of the product warms up to 80-120 degrees, and you can get burned on it;
• If there are children and/or animals in the house, then it is worth purchasing an additional protective screen for the panel.

Power of quartz heaters: which are the most economical?

Ordinary devices with water/oil coolant consume approximately 0.8-2 kW. But quartz heaters spend noticeably less “precious” electricity. During operation, they consume 0.4-0.6 kW, heating 12-18 sq.m. Thus, those who want to save on energy costs should buy a quartz heater. In the market of electric heating devices, they are the undisputed leaders in energy saving.

Those who are looking for the most economical models among various manufacturers of quartz units should know one fact: almost all products consume electricity the same. They spend approximately 400-600 square meters, while achieving an efficiency of 99% (literally all the energy consumed is converted into heat). So, for example, you can buy a TEPLEKO quartz heater with dimensions (w/h/t) of 600/350/25 mm. with a power of 0.4 kW. In this case, the heating time of the radiating surface to 75 degrees is no more than 20 minutes.

Prices for quartz heaters

In stores you can find a variety of prices for quartz heaters. It all depends on the brand, heat-generating apparatus, design and additional equipment.

For example, an infrared unit K-19N for heating 10 sq.m. can be bought in Krasnodar for 1,500 - 2,500 rubles. In this case, the power of the device will be equal to 2 kW. But a monolithic quartz panel of the Texture brand with a power of 0.4 kW, designed for the same area, can be purchased for 2,300 - 5,000 rubles. However, if we compare heaters with the same power, they will be in approximately the same price range.

Most Russian consumers prefer monolithic quartz devices, which weigh 10-12 kg. The fact is that the heating method used in them has common features with the good old Russian stove. So people on a subconscious level feel that such devices will bring them more warmth and comfort.

In Krasnodar, the price of monolithic quartz heaters (without a thermostat) is in the range of 2,000-2,500 rubles.

However, infrared devices are, from a scientific point of view, much more productive. At the same time, they are smaller in weight and volume.

Bathroom radiator - buying guide, rating and testing

The Instal Projekt Ambra R AMBR-50/100 bathroom radiator is a steel model that is not subject to corrosion and at the same time resistant to any mechanical damage. The white color of the radiator is suitable not only for bathrooms, but also for many rooms. The model can be used not only as a water heater, but also as an electric or water-electric heater.

Blyss Boxwood 90 × 50 radiator made of durable steel is the ideal choice. The product is available in white. You can hang 3 towels on it at the same time (9 tubes divided into 3 segments). If you'd like to see more bathroom radiator deals, read our full guide.

Comfort “Umnitsa” TKV-2000 W

Minimum weight Country: Russia (produced in China) Average price: 2200 rub.
Rating (2020): 4.8 The fan heater is designed for wall mounting. Its flat body is made of high-quality plastic, which is resistant to temperature changes and does not deform or crack over time. The electric device is equipped with towel holders, which users call among the best design features of the model along with the weight of 1.6 kg.

But the positive aspects of bathroom equipment do not end there. It is equipped with 2 power modes - 1000 and 2000 W, which are set by simply switching the mechanical regulator. The ceramic heating element is considered the most environmentally friendly, since its operation does not lead to the combustion of oxygen. Additionally, the device has a thermostat with 3 types of airflow. The overheating protection option prevents fire and premature failure of the device.

Step-by-step installation of a battery in the bathroom

The first step is to prepare materials and tools. The tool is selected depending on the type of water supply pipes in the room. If installation is carried out through PP pipes, then it is necessary to ensure the availability of ball valves, mounting brackets, polypropylene pipes, a soldering iron and a knife for PP pipes.

The next step is dismantling the old equipment. Here you will need to do some preparatory work - if necessary, agree with the house management company on the possibility of disconnecting the riser from the water. Well, then - depending on the situation. If the coil is welded to the riser, you just need to cut it off with a grinder; if it is screwed on, unscrew it and dismantle it.

Step three. We install bypass and ball valves. Of course, the battery mount can be installed without a bypass, but following the recommendations of experts, it is better to install it. Ball valves must be installed at the ends of the dryer. This will allow you to shut off the water without turning off the riser.

The final step is installing the dryer coil. The process here is the same as with nailing a shelf to the wall. The only condition is to align the coil vertically and maintain the permissible distance from the wall.

Top 7. Hintek IW-03

Rating (2021): 4.46

The most compact model Heater in a compact form factor, designed for small rooms up to 5 square meters.

• Characteristics

  Average price: 1,500 rub.

• Country: China
• Rated power (kW): 0.3
• Maximum surface temperature: 120⁰
• Heating speed: 100⁰ in 20 minutes
• Volume of heated space (cub.m): 5
• Dimensions (mm): 300×170
• Weight (kg): 3.3

If your country house or cottage is already connected to heating and does not require additional heaters, you will probably have a room in which this heating is not available or is insufficient. In this case, there is no need to install an expensive, bulky heater. Such a baby is quite enough. This is a full-fledged quartz monolithic heater placed in a steel case. This is done for protection, since the thickness of the plate here is only 15 millimeters, which is very small and makes the device fragile. This is not to say that this device is the best in some way and outperforms its competitors, but you will no longer find such a small option from any other manufacturer. For example, it can be placed on a balcony or loggia. It will keep it warm there and prevent it from cooling down in winter. But you should be careful when installing. The surface heats up to almost 120 degrees. The heater is placed stationary, with wall mounting. By the way, the weight is only 3 kilograms, so even a plasterboard partition can easily support it.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Compact size
• A light weight
• Low price
• Protected housing

• Designed exclusively for small spaces
• Very fragile slab

Top 9. Noirot Verplus 1500

Rating (2021): 4.31

• Characteristics

  Average price: 9,000 rub.

• Country: France
• Rated power (kW): 1.5
• Maximum surface temperature: 98⁰
• Heating speed: 98⁰ in 20 minutes
• Volume of heated space (cubic meters): 25
• Dimensions (mm): 600×500
• Weight (kg): 12

We have before us a unique quartz heater from a French manufacturer. It is slightly different from the usual monolithic devices, as it uses several heating options at once. An electric heating element placed in a solid alloy of quartz and basalt works as the main heater here. The back and sides are covered with screens. They direct the generated heat to the sides so that the device does not heat the wall on which it is installed. The design is unique. Reflective screens are located at an angle. That is, a process of natural convection occurs, due to which the device requires much less time and energy consumption to achieve the optimal temperature in the room. But, as in any case, there are pros and cons. If you read user reviews, it becomes clear that the main complaint about the product is its price. Indeed, the heater is very expensive. Yes, it has a unique design. There are several unusual solutions, but even they do not offset this price tag.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Unique design
• Very fast heating of the room
• The thinnest slab
• Many degrees of protection

• Very high price tag
• Rarely found in retail stores

Ballu BEC/EZER-2000

Effective combination of price and quality Country: Russia Average price: 4000 rub.
Rating (2020): 4.9 The most unpretentious device in terms of placement conditions is equipped with its own wheelbase, and therefore does not require special installation, although the wall-mounted version is structurally acceptable. It moves easily around the bathroom regardless of the type of floor covering. The moisture-proof housing of the convector is quite sealed, practically does not heat up, and does not have protruding or other traumatic elements. It is characterized by maximum stability, but in case of capsizing, as well as overheating, a shutdown is provided.

If necessary, such a device can be installed directly next to the bath and regulate the temperature. In general, according to users, this accessory is effective on an area of ​​up to 25 square meters. m. The build quality deserves attention, as does the cost of the model. The electronic type of control is complemented by a display and a timer function, which can be set for a maximum of a day. Of the useful features, the undoubted advantages are the options for blocking buttons and air ionization, which suppresses the activity of bacteria. The relative disadvantage of the heater is its weight of 4.7 kg.

Polaris PCH 1096

Best-selling model Country: Russia (produced in Russia, Italy, Israel, China) Average price: 2500 rubles.
Rating (2020): 4.8 This stylish bathroom accessory attracts attention primarily with its unobtrusive, universal appearance. Ergonomic shape, almost completely closed heating element, a large number of small holes for uniform heat distribution. The product has an optimal weight of 3.5 kg and is easily moved using a wheel base or mounted on a wall.

The heater power of 1000 W is quite enough for the bathroom. The main working element of X-Shape is made of aluminum and is considered one of the most reliable, with a good service life. Using a mechanical regulator, the desired heating mode is set, there are three in total, including energy-saving. The convector is protected from overheating, moisture, and tipping over. Owners in reviews point out the silent operation of the device, ease of maintenance, and the absence of foreign odors.