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11/11/2024

Heater - Type overview

Heating devices – which device for which needs and with which power?

Basically, heaters can be divided into three broad categories:

  • Electric heater

The electric heater is one of the most common heaters and stands out for its ease of use. Electrically powered heaters are used in homes, the construction industry, workshops, bars, garages, storage rooms, and even in agriculture. The biggest advantage of electric heaters is that they can also be used indoors and (usually) already have a built-in thermostat. The heat output is usually adjustable in stages, and overheating protection is provided by a built-in safety thermostat. Thanks to the 230V connection voltage, electric heaters can be operated "off-grid" almost anywhere there are power outlets. A lot has happened with these devices in recent years, too. While electric heaters were once considered power guzzlers, energy efficiency has increased - but electric devices still require more input power than gas and oil.

  • Gas heater

Ideal for construction drying, well-ventilated workshops, tents, agricultural use, or gardening. These are powered by propane/butane gas. It's particularly noteworthy that the heating output is continuously adjustable and these units are the only ones with 100% efficiency. Equipped with a safety thermostat, some units can also be equipped with an optional room thermostat. Since (flammable) gas is notoriously bad for humans, the necessary ventilation is the only reason these units haven't already completely conquered the market.

  • Oil heater

They largely share the same areas of application as gas heaters; the direct firing also achieves 100% efficiency. The main difference between them and gas heaters, aside from the fuel, is that some oil heaters also have the option of a chimney, allowing them to be used in enclosed spaces. However, this somewhat increases the purchase price, and of course, a chimney must also provide the option of exhaust air. In recent years, there has also been a new innovation here: the infrared oil heater. These do not require a chimney or exhaust pipe, as the oil burns cleanly and with virtually no residue.


Calculating the required power varies depending on local conditions. A precise calculation must be performed by a local specialist.

However, over time a small “rule of thumb” calculation has been established:

approx. 110W / m² for new buildings and thermally insulated old buildings
approx. 180 W / m² for uninsulated old buildings
approx. 15% surcharge for bathrooms or tiled rooms
approx. 15% discount for rooms with existing sloping roofs