Every dacha owner faces the problem of heating in a country house. A comfortable microclimate, ease of installation and safety in using heating devices are the main wishes of customers of heating equipment. Which heater is best for a summer house? We will try to answer in our article. In the photo: Types of heaters for summer cottages
When choosing a heater, you should consider several main characteristics:
- power;
- mobility;
- safety;
- energy efficiency.
Today there are several types of heaters on the market that can serve as an alternative source of heat in a country house during cold times. However, not all of them meet the necessary safety requirements and are suitable for continuous operation.
Oil heater
When purchasing an oil heater, buyers most often give it preference due to its relative cheapness.
However, they do not think how much they will have to pay for energy consumption. When you turn off this model, the heater remains warm for quite a long time, so if you do not disconnect it from the network, you will have to spend much more on utility bills than if there was another type of heater at your dacha.
When it operates, the air in the room becomes dry, so to create an optimal microclimate in cold weather, you will also need a humidifier. Dust accumulated on the surface can cause an unpleasant odor, so you need to wipe the heater regularly.
In the photo: Oil heater parts
This device is not economical, considering the time spent heating the room. This can also be attributed to the disadvantages of the equipment.
The weight of the heater is quite large, so for convenience, manufacturers often make them on wheels. Due to this, you can quickly move it to any room, but moving it, for example, to another house will be more difficult.
The device does not have intelligent control; it can only be turned on manually; the oil heater cannot maintain an exact temperature.
The fire safety level of an oil heater is low, since the oil in it can decompose and leak over time, so you should not dry things on it and place it near flammable objects.
Thermal curtain
The curtain is designed mainly to prevent the penetration of cold or warm air from outside.
However, for a dacha, considering this option as heating equipment, in our opinion, is not entirely correct. The doors to the house are always closed during the cold season; few people will keep the doorway open for a long time in winter, unless there are special reasons for this. It would be more practical to use a curtain in the summer; it prevents insects from entering the house and does not let out cool air if the air conditioner is running in the room. In the photo: Types of thermal curtains
If you nevertheless decide to purchase a curtain, then you should pay attention to the fact that it is a thermal curtain with heating. It will cost more and will not be able, in any case, to heat all the rooms, so additional heating devices will be required. Also, the disadvantages include a high noise level; for a private home this may not be very convenient. The device is characterized by increased fire safety, but still you should not turn on the curtain for children and leave it working when no one is in the house.
Fan heater
The cheapest are spiral fan heaters.
They can warm up a small room in a minimum amount of time due to the fact that the open filament coil heats up very quickly. But when using such equipment, you should remember that this device has a high level of fire hazard. In heavily polluted rooms, a fire may occur due to the fact that dust settles on the spiral, and if there is a large amount of it, it can instantly flare up, this will lead to a fire. In ordinary, unpolluted rooms, dust can simply cause an unpleasant odor. It is also worth considering that overheating the fan can cause it to break, so the device should not be left unattended and it is better not to use it for a long time. In addition, it “burns oxygen” and dries the air. In the photo: The principle of operation of the fan heater
You can choose a fan with a ceramic heating element - such models do not overheat, they use electricity much more economically, and dust does not burn on them. However, a fan heater is not capable of heating a large room; it must be installed in different rooms and each device must be turned on manually.
The best infrared emitters for the garden
Wester IH-2000
Rating: 4.9
Why it: High power and fast heating.
Thanks to its high power of 2000 W, this infrared emitter is able to quickly and effectively heat up even a fairly large room - up to 20 square meters. According to user reviews, the device copes with raising the temperature in such a room to a completely comfortable level in just 20 minutes.
Like other infrared emitters, this one operates completely silently. It is also made in a housing protected from moisture, so it can be installed in premises such as a garage or a temporary country house.
The emitter requires a ceiling mount. The length of the heater is less than 1.5 meters, so it can be installed even in small passages or narrow rooms.
Advantages
- Very fast heating of the room;
- Easy installation;
- Completely silent operation.
Flaws
- No automatic or intelligent control.
Heat gun
Heat guns are very effective. For example, when the house is frozen and you need to quickly warm it up, in this case the gun will become an indispensable assistant. It is also better to use it during repairs to quickly dry the wallpaper. Such equipment has high productivity and relatively high cost. You cannot use a heat gun unattended, as it has a low level of fire safety. It is worth noting that the gun “burns oxygen” and greatly dries the air in the room.
In the photo: The operating principle of an electric heat gun
The gun cannot be used directly for permanent use in a residential building, so other heating equipment should be provided to heat the house.
Electric convector
The cost of convectors is higher than that of fan heaters and oil heaters, but this difference will quickly pay off due to reduced energy costs.
Convectors can be used both as the main and as an additional source of heat. Thanks to the possibility of remote access, you can turn equipment on and off from anywhere in the world. You can also program convectors to turn on at a certain time and maintain different temperatures at different times of the day, for example, at night you can set a comfortable temperature for sleeping at 19 C, and by the time you wake up it will automatically increase and be, for example, 22-23 C.
In the photo: Electric convectors and control system NOBO ORION 700
NOBO convectors are the most economical, efficient and safe heaters of all the above. These smart devices can maintain a non-freezing temperature of +7 C, which is very convenient for a country house where people come for a short time. In this case, pipes will not freeze. Convectors can be left unattended by monitoring their operation in a special application. Another plus is that the convector does not “burn oxygen”.
The best heat fans for a summer house
Dyson AM09 Fan Heater
Rating: 4.9
Why it: Attractive design, bladeless design, high power.
This is the only bladeless heat fan in the rating. Therefore, it looks very futuristic. But at the same time, the performance of the device is at an excellent level - it is 2000 W, thanks to which the fan is able to heat up to 20 square meters.
Like other Dyson home appliances, this unit takes fan functionality to a whole new level. 10 speed modes, remote control, tilt, turn, the ability to adjust the width of the heat flow - all this allows you to configure the heater so that it brings maximum comfort.
The fan is equipped with a remote control and an electronic control system, through which you can accurately set all the desired operating parameters. The heater also has a timer and a safety system that turns it off if it tips over. The noise level is relatively low for its class and at maximum load it is only 64 dB.
Advantages
- High performance;
- Unique design and construction;
- Full control with remote control.
Flaws
- Expensive compared to other models.
Timberk TFH F20VVE
Rating: 4.8
Why it: Safe model with low noise level.
This fan heater is housed in a special housing that protects against accidental contact with the heating element or diffuser. Thanks to this design, it is even suitable for installation in children's rooms! A ceramic heating element with a power of 2000 W will quickly warm up a room of up to 20 square meters.
Another safety-enhancing feature is the thermostat. This functional element automatically turns off the fan if there is a risk of overheating. The heater is equipped with a digital control system and supports remote control from the remote control. Among its functions are temperature settings in fairly small increments and an operation timer with a limit of 7.5 hours. The set parameters are displayed on the liquid crystal display.
Advantages
- Powerful and reliable heating element;
- Remote control support;
- Rotation mode.
Flaws
- Sensitive thermostat;
- There is not even minimal moisture protection;
- Only one fan mode.
Timberk TFH T15XCZ
Rating: 4.7
Why it: Attractive design, high power, optimal price.
This fan heater has a unique design that makes it completely different from a heating device - rather like a “hipster” audio speaker. But this is just a virtue. The heater will fit perfectly into both classic and modern interiors.
In addition, the heater has high power for its compact size. It is 1500 W, thanks to which the heater is able to increase the temperature in a room with an area of up to 20 square meters. To control the fan heater, a mechanical handle located on one of the side walls is used. The heating element is made of ceramic, which is durable. There are two operating modes that differ in power.
The device is also capable of operating as a regular fan, without heating the room. There is an automatic shut-off function when tipping over and an anti-frost system.
Advantages
- Attractive design;
- Operation in fan mode;
- Long lasting heaters.
Flaws
- Relatively high noise level;
- No timer;
- Short cable.
Gas convector
Installation of a gas convector may require special permission.
Installation of such equipment is much more complicated than simply installing, for example, an electric convector. For a gas convector, it is necessary not only to install a chimney, but also to connect a gas pipe to it. One convector is designed to heat one or a pair of small adjacent rooms. In the photo: Details of the gas convector
A gas convector is not cheap and looks quite bulky, so for those who value not only comfort, but also design, this type of heating is not suitable.
The device has a low level of fire safety and a possible risk of gas leakage. Therefore, when installing such equipment, it would be a good idea to install a gas sensor in the house.
Comparative analysis
For clarity, we propose to evaluate the functionality of products of different types, collected in a summary table.
Table. Comparative characteristics of the presented models
| Model | Type | Heating area, sq.m. | Power, W | Weight, kg | Average cost as of February 2021, rubles |
| "BEC/EZER-1500" from BALLU | Electric convector | 20 | 1500 | 4 | 3800 |
| "NFC 4S 20" from NOBO | Electric convector | 20 | 2000 | 6.7 | 12200 |
| "SPOT E-3 PLUS 1500" from NOIROT | Electric convector | 20 | 1500 | 4.5 | 9400 |
| "SPOT E-5 Plus 750" from NOIROT | Electric convector | 25 | 2000 | 6.6 | 11100 |
| "TCH Q2 800" from TIMBERK | IR heater | 12 | 800/400 | 1.08 | 930 |
| "PKSH 0508H" from POLARIS | IR heater | 20 | 800 | 2.69 | 3500 |
| "BIHP/R-100" from BALLU | IR heater | 15 | 1000 | 3.6 | 3900 |
| AlMAC "IK5" | IR heater | 10 | 500 | 1.6 | 2600 |
| "TCH A5 1500" from TIMBERK | IR heater | 16 | 1500 | 5.3 | 2800 |
| Model | Type | Heating area, sq.m. | Gas consumption, kg/hour | Weight, kg | Average cost as of February 2021, rubles |
| HYUNDAI H-HG3-25-UI777 | Gas heater/stove | 20-40 | 0.22 | 1 | 1300 |
| BALLU "BIGH-3" | Gas heater | 30 | 0.2 | 1.6 | 1700 |
| BALLU "BIGH-55" | Gas heater | 60 | 0.3 | 8.4 | 6600 |
| BARTOLINI PULLOVER I | Gas heater | 60 | 0.3 | 13 | 9900 |
| Hosseven HDU-5 | Gas convector | 60 | 0.53 | 14.3 | 16700 |
| TIMBERK TGH 4200 SM1 | Gas heater | 30-60 | 0.31 | 6.3 | 5200 |
Infrared heater
Infrared heaters have a low body heating temperature, so they can be mounted on any surface. They can also work for a long time. This equipment is more economical than oil heaters. Another feature of heaters can be considered both a plus and a minus - local or local heating. They are capable of heating a small area, which is convenient, for example, in an office or greenhouse, but is not very applicable in a private home, where, most likely, heat must be maintained in all parts of the living space.
In the photo: The operating principle of an infrared heater
The main disadvantage is the danger for people, especially children and animals, since if you handle the device carelessly, you can accidentally touch the flask in spiral infrared heaters, resulting in a burn.
In tubular models, you should pay attention to too bright light, which can interfere with sleep.
Long-term use of such heaters can lead to unpleasant consequences for humans, namely burns, dryness and flaking of the skin, and redness of the skin.
Quartz heater
The advantages of quartz heaters are that, due to their design features, they practically do not dry out the air, are easy to install and maintain, and are relatively inexpensive.
The disadvantage of using such a heater in a private home is very significant - the heating temperature of the outer surface of the device is 95 C, which is guaranteed to cause a burn if touched. When using a protective screen, the risk of burns is reduced, but at the same time the heat output of the heating device is also reduced. Which entails increased energy costs. In the photo: Operation of a quartz heater
Also, these heater models do not have a thermostat; it must be purchased separately. The heater is a fire hazard and should not be turned on unattended or placed near flammable objects.
Electric fireplace
This type of heating device differs from those described above in that the heating function is in addition to the flame burning brightly in an electric fireplace and is not present in all electric fireplaces.
In thermal models, you can adjust the heating power, you can choose 1 or 2 kW. A fireplace can heat a small room up to 15-20 m2, and it will be much more economical than, for example, an oil heater. Its advantages, in addition to its stylish appearance, include fire safety. It is impossible to get a burn from an electric fire, and some models can also act as a humidifier, since they use ordinary water as “fuel”. In the photo: Electric fireplaces
Of course, an electric fireplace cannot be considered as the main heating system, but as a decorative and stylish piece of furniture with a heating function, such a fireplace can be an excellent solution for creating a cozy atmosphere in a country house.
Which brand of heater for a dacha is better to choose?
The best radiators for cottages and country houses are offered by both well-known world brands and budget young companies. The first important criterion for making the right choice is a reliable manufacturer, which is what the following brands turned out to be:
- Resanta is a Russian company that supplies the market with voltage stabilizers, welding equipment and heating devices. The main production facilities are located in China. Today the company is called the standard for price-quality ratio.
- Timberk is a Swedish manufacturer of climate control equipment that has been supplying products to the Russian market for more than 10 years. All products are distinguished by high quality, ease of operation, and reliability.
- U nit is an Austrian company founded in 1993. Its assortment is mainly represented by equipment in the budget price class for consumers with average incomes. We are talking about household appliances for the home and climate control units.
- Ballu is an international corporation whose concerns are located in Germany, Italy, and Russia. Before being released for sale, products undergo ISO 9001-2011 certification. Several million units of goods are produced annually, among them climate control devices for the home.
- Remington is a well-known brand that produces equipment for various purposes, from personal care products to household appliances, dishes and devices for human health. The holding was founded in 1937 in the USA.
- Bartolini is an Italian well-known company that was founded in 1984. Activities are aimed at developing heating systems using natural or liquefied gas. As a result, safe and economical devices are produced.
- Wester is a Russian brand that over the course of several years has gained trust not only in the domestic market, but also in Italy, Austria, Germany, Switzerland, the USA and the UK. The production produces pumps, radiators, manifold systems and cabinets, water heaters, fittings and boilers.
- Hyundai is a South Korean brand founded in 1967. The main activity is aimed at the automotive industry; in addition, goods for production and everyday life are produced, including high-quality durable radiators.
- Almac is a Russian company that supplies small-sized and multifunctional infrared radiators. Such devices differ from other options in that they are automatic, that is, they work independently without control or adjustment.
- NeoClima is a Russian-Ukrainian company founded in 2007. The equipment produced is aimed at processing, heating, and air conditioning indoors. With decent technical characteristics, products have low prices.
- Roda is a German company founded in 1982 by a young engineer. Today it is the largest manufacturer of climate heating equipment for domestic and industrial use.
- Thermor is a French brand with over 85 years of experience in producing reliable climate control equipment. The most promising area of activity is the production of electric heating devices. The main task of engineers during development is energy saving, environmental friendliness, and product safety.
Heater rating
How to choose the right heater for a summer house or country house, how to choose the most suitable model, what factors need to be taken into account and what subtleties do you need to know?
In each individual case, everything depends on many factors - these are personal preferences of a particular brand, and the budget that the buyer is focusing on. It is also necessary to clearly understand the tasks that the heating device must perform. It is important whether the device is economical or not. For example, a heat gun is perfect for heating a utility room, garage or shed. For a greenhouse, winter garden or greenhouse with rare flowers, you can purchase an infrared heater.
If the house is gasified, then you can consider the option of installing a gas heater, while not forgetting to take care of personal safety and install a gas leak detector. For those who like to sit by the fireplace in the evening, the choice is obvious - an electric fireplace.
The most optimal solution for heating a house, in our opinion, will be an electric convector. It can be used in any room - even in a children's room or in the bathroom, since the convector meets IP24 protection class.
Convectors are absolutely fireproof, will not harm children or animals, they can be controlled remotely and programs can be set via the application. The relatively high cost will quickly pay for itself with minimal energy consumption due to precise temperature maintenance.
In order to choose the right equipment, you can contact specialists who will help you decide which heater is more suitable and which will be a waste of money.
The best electric convectors for summer cottages
Noirot Spot E-3 Plus 1500
Rating: 4.9
Why it: Maximum ease of use and high performance.
This electric convector is specially designed to make it easy to use. After setting a comfortable temperature, you can simply forget about it. Built-in day and night modes help you automatically adjust the device's power at the touch of a button.
The convector is wall-mounted, but can also be installed on the floor thanks to its stable, widely spaced wheels. The heater body is protected from moisture penetration. A mechanical handle is used to adjust the temperature.
The convector power is 1500 W, which is enough to heat a room up to 20 square meters. There is a built-in automatic shutdown mechanism when overheating to protect against fire.
Advantages
- Heats the room quickly and efficiently;
- Supports automatic control;
- Completely silent.
Flaws
- The top gets very hot during use;
- Poor fastening of the wheels to the body;
- Wheels are sold separately.
Ballu BEC/EZER-1500
Rating: 4.8
Why it: Built-in air ionizer and many protective systems.
This is one of the safest electric convectors in the rating. In addition to the waterproof housing, it is equipped with automatic shutdown systems for tip-over and overheating, as well as a child-proof button lock. Thus, it can be used even in homes where there is a small child.
In addition, the convector is equipped with a convenient electronic control system with the ability to adjust the temperature in detail. The 24-hour shut-off timer makes the heater suitable for heating rooms that are not designed for prolonged occupancy, such as offices or warehouses.
The convector power is 1500 W, making it suitable for heating rooms up to 20 square meters in size. Can run at half the intensity to maintain temperature and reduce wiring stress. Suitable for both wall and floor mounting.
Advantages
- Many protection systems;
- Fast heating of the room;
- Attractive design.
Flaws
- Short cable;
- Very bright LED display;
- There are false alarms of overheating protection.
