When considering adding heating to your home, there are numerous options to choose from depending on the system most suitable: electric, gas or oil-based systems. Electric heaters prices for these systems differ, however. On average, gas-powered systems tend to be more costly to install.
Cost of Installation
In the UK, electric heaters prices can be different depending on where they’re installed, how much work is involved and if extra wiring is required. If you hire an electrician to install the unit, their price will depend on how many units need to be connected, whether you want to include a thermostat and if additional wiring is required.
Installation projects typically require a licensed electrician who will also need to make connections at the service panel and run electrical wires. For instance, if an electric baseboard heater requires a dedicated 240-volt circuit, then you’ll need to create an empty breaker space in your service panel and run a new 240-volt cable. As this can be an intricate job involving several cables and connections, hiring an expert is recommended for this task.
On average, this project can be priced between £500 and £1,500 for an average-sized home. This price includes the electrical permit, labour, and materials.
One way to reduce installation costs is to install multiple heaters in a room instead of just one. A professional can do this for less than the hourly rate you’ll pay an electrician for installing just one heater.
Another way to save money is by replacing an older gas heater with an electric one that doesn’t require ductwork. This solution may be suitable for homes without ductwork or if there’s not enough room in a room for larger units.
Finally, you can save money by installing a heater that’s appropriate for the space being heated. Ideally, search for one that operates at around 10 watts per square foot – this is usually enough heat for most rooms to stay comfortable.
Calculating your running costs for any electric device is as simple as figuring how much power it uses and dividing that figure by the current cost of electricity. For instance, a 1500-watt heater uses 1.5 kWh of energy for each hour that it is running.
Cost of Fuel
One of the primary factors affecting your energy bill is the type of fuel you use for heating your home. Heat generator options include natural gas, electricity, propane and heating oil – with costs varying according to where you live and the size of your residence.
Electric heaters are a popular way to heat homes, but they can be pricey. Prices for electric heaters vary by location and depend on the efficiency of the device.
Fuel costs can be a major factor when deciding to switch to an electric heater. However, other elements like how much energy your space heater uses and the climate where you live must also be taken into account when making this decision.
For instance, an electric heater that boasts a high wattage may need more power to reach your desired temperature if you live in cold climates.
When comparing energy costs, it is essential to ensure you include all costs such as taxes and delivery fees in the calculation. These extra fees can add up quickly, so it’s essential to understand the total price of each type of fuel before making a final decision.
Calculating the cost of fuel is simple: divide your total bill by the number of therms consumed. Utilities usually report how much they deliver in therms, but you can also get the price per therm by calling up the utility company and asking for their total charge per therm.
Calculating the cost of heating your home can also be done by calculating how many BTUs it takes to heat a house. On average, homes require between 50,000,000 and 150,000,000 BTUs in order to stay comfortably warm during wintertime.
For the 2022/2023 winter season, households with electric heaters will spend an estimated £838 to maintain a comfortable home’s temperature. That is more than twice as much as those using natural gas, yet less than oil or propane-burning households.
Cost of Maintenance
Electric heaters are an attractive alternative to gas or oil-based central heating systems. Not only are they cost-effective to install and use up more energy than other methods of heat production, but they’re also more energy-efficient with no emissions of hazardous fumes.
Installation is much simpler with an electric system since there are no flues or vents to contend with. This makes it simpler for builders and electricians to fit an electric heater, saving both time and money in the process.
Maintenance on heating systems is necessary to keep them operating optimally. This may involve an extensive process that includes a full system check as well as cleaning, dusting, and other minor tasks.
In addition to regular maintenance, some heating systems require annual inspections. These tests guarantee your system is secure and energy-efficient – ultimately saving you money in the long run!
Besides this, it can help prevent major problems from arising. These could include leaks and fires. Furthermore, you reduce your risk of carbon monoxide poisoning from radiator leaks.
The cost of heating in your area is largely determined by electricity rates. The more energy you consume, the higher your bill will be.
Another factor influencing maintenance cost is the size and age of your heater. Older heaters may need special tools or parts for repair, increasing the cost to service.
One way to reduce the cost of maintenance for your heater is to sign up for a regular maintenance contract. These usually come with a fixed price and schedule for service visits; depending on its length, these could be as low as £75 or £150 annually.
The mentioned electric heaters prices are much less than the cost of replacing your heater, and maintaining it properly should help extend its lifespan.
If you’re thinking about installing an electric heater, opt for a high-quality model that will last. You’re sure to find plenty of excellent products both online and in stores.
Cost of Replacement
When the time comes to replace your electric heater, the cost will vary from home to home. Prices for new heaters depend on factors like manufacturer, type and size.
Installing an electric furnace typically costs between £2,600 and £4,200, including the removal and disposal of your old unit. It may also involve connecting the gas line, installing a new one, wiring for the unit to your electrical panel and any minor modifications required on your property.
On average, the cost to convert an oil furnace to electric runs between £3,600 and £5,200. This includes taking apart and disposing of your old furnace and tank, disconnection and capping off gas lines, as well as wiring for the new one.
Additionally, it will involve cleaning the surrounding area, vents and ductwork to prepare them for the new unit. If your old oil furnace is a high-efficiency model, you will need to upgrade your electrical circuit in order to accommodate it.
Finally, if you’re replacing an electric water heater with a direct-vent gas model, additional ventilation will be needed in your home to dispose of the exhaust. This could cost an additional £200-£500 and your contractor may need to install a new expansion tank as well.
Although replacing a furnace can be pricey, the savings from not having to pay for fuel and maintenance make it worthwhile. Plus, electric heating is an environmentally friendly choice that won’t release harmful carbon emissions into the atmosphere if you live in an older home.
