There’s nothing more comforting than resting your feet by a warm and toasty heater on a cold winter’s day. Perhaps the only thing that’s almost as comforting is knowing you’ve chosen the right heater to see you through many unforgiving winters. When choosing a heater, consider room size, speed of heat, energy efficiency, safety, and portability. Carefully weighing up your options will help you avoid buyers’ remorse and give you peace of mind. Here's a breakdown of popular heater types, along with their pros and cons:
Quartz (Infrared/Radiant) Heaters
How they work: Use quartz heating elements that emit radiant heat, warming people and objects directly within their path.
Pros: • Instant, focused warmth • Efficient for small areas or spot heating • No noisy fans Cons: • Heats only what it “sees”- not whole-room convection • Can feel cold when not in direct line
Example: The Bennett Read BR 4 Bar Quartz Heater uses four quartz elements plus convection airflow for broader coverage. It offers power levels (600W to 2400W), quiet operation, adjustable thermostats, and safety features like tip over protection.
Ceramic Fan Heaters
How they work: The ceramic element within the heater warms up, and an internal fan circulates the warm air that it generates.
Pros: • Fast and even whole-room heating • More consistent temperature • Often includes thermostat and safety features Cons: • Fan can be noisy • Moves dust and allergens • Less effective in poorly ventilated spaces
Example: The Bennett Read Digital Tower Fan Heater uses a 2000W ceramic heating element, remote control, oscillation, and safety cut-offs, ideal for mid-size rooms or offices.
Fan Heaters (Basic)
How they work: Simple resistive heating with a fan to blow air.
Pros: • Very low cost • Lightweight and portable • Provides quick heat Cons: • No thermostat control • Often high noise levels and less efficient
Example: Bennett Read offers a Compact 2 in 1 Fan Heater with 750W or 1500W settings, adjustable thermostat, and eco-heating mode for small personal spaces.
Gas Heaters (Radiant/Gas-Powered)
How they work: Use gas (often LPG) to burn fuel, warming the space or surfaces via infrared.
Pros: • Powerful and cost-effective for off grid or large spaces • Can heat large open areas quickly Cons: • Requires proper ventilation • Safety concerns (CO, fire) – that is, if there aren’t features in the heater design/build to address this. • Not ideal for indoor – unless certified
Example: Bennett Read’s Folding 3 Panel Gas Heater and 3 Panel Gas Heater models (listed at R1,499 – R1,699 in July 2025) are suited for well ventilated areas; they’re portable and offer high heat output. These can be used indoors due to their safety features such as oxygen depletion sensors and anti-tilt safety. They are also LPGSA approved.
| Heater Type | Pros | Cons | Bennett Read Product Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quartz / Radiant | Instant warmth, efficient spot | Limited room coverage | BR 4 Bar Quartz Heater |
| Ceramic Fan Heater | Fast, even heat, thermostat | Some noise, dust circulation | Digital Tower Fan Heater |
| Fan Heater (Basic) | Cheap, simple, portable | No thermostat, noisy, less efficient | Compact 2 in 1 Fan Heater |
| Gas Heater (Panel) | High power, cost-effective gas | Ventilation & safety concerns (if not LPGSA approved) | Folding or 3 Panel Gas Heater models (both LPGSA approved) |
Who Should Choose What?
Small, personal space (e.g. desk or bedside)
Go for: Compact 2 in 1 Fan Heater – low power options (750W/1500W), adjustable thermostat, eco mode for small zones.
Medium room size (living room or office)
Go for: Digital Tower Fan Heater – ceramic PTC element, oscillation, remote, timer, and thermostat for even warming throughout a 20–30m² area.
Quick, targeted spot heating (e.g. study, seating area)
Go for: BR 4 Bar Quartz Heater – radiant plus convection combo, multiple power levels, quiet and effective for quick snug comfort.
Large, open, or off grid space
Go for: Bennett Read Gas Heater options – robust heat output, portable gas panels (3 panel or folding).
Tips Before Buying
- Safety first: Choose models with tip over shut off, overheat protection, and a cool-touch exterior.
- Thermostats & timers: Help efficiency - especially in ceramic and quartz models.
- Noise levels: Fan heaters are louder; ideal for living spaces, less so for bedrooms.
- Portability matters: Tower heaters (with handles/hoops or wheels) are easier to reposition.
Final Thoughts
Each heater type has its ideal use:- Quartz heaters Shine at fast, focal warmth.
- Ceramic fan heaters Suit broader, room wide heating with convenience.
- Compact fan heaters Offer economical comfort in personal spaces.
- Gas heaters Deliver high power for open spaces.
In summary, your choice of heater should be based on room size, how quickly you need heat, noise tolerance, and safety needs. Our solid lineup of heater options can meet all these goals and more!
Contact us for any questions you may have relating to the heater types we offer.
