The 5 Best Oil Filled Heaters – [Top Reviews & Rankings]

An oil filled heater, also known as an oil heater, or oil filled radiator, is a form of convection heater used to heat a single room. The best oil filled heater will be energy efficient and warm up quickly.

These heaters contain oil and an electric heating element. As the oil is heated, it fills the outer fins of the radiator and thereby passes heat to the surrounding environment. The system is completely self-contained, so the heater’s oil never needs refilling and never burns off (Source).

Oil filled heaters warm the surrounding ambient air by way of convection. Cool air is pulled in, heated, and pushed out via the oil-filled fins. In this cycle, the heated air rises, which pushes cooler air down where it is warmed by the heater (Source).

The affordability and cost savings aspects of oil filled radiators are the main reason they are so popular. Oil filled heaters provide essential heating, and a feature-set that makes them great for heating a single room.

Because they allow you to isolate a single room to heat, oil-filled heaters actually lower your electric bill. Before you go out and buy your new oil-filled heater, consider the cost, size, and heating capacity. You should also consider its energy usage and portability.

In this review, we will check out all the top rated oil filled heaters. All of the heaters in this review will keep you warm and cozy, whether you are needing to heat a room seasonally, or live in a cold environment that requires constant heating.

Are Oil Filled Heaters Expensive to Run?

Oil-filled radiator heaters are relatively cheap to run. Additionally, you don’t have to replace the oil for them as they last for years. Oil filled heaters are the cheapest way to heat a room, since the thermostat controls the temperature.

What Is The Cost Per Hour To Run Oil Filled Heaters?

If you look at the maximum power consumption of an oil-filled radiator heater, then it is 1500 watts, which is similar to conventional heaters. Additionally, oil-filled heaters often come with energy-efficient preferences that let you set a lower power output like 800 watts.

Upon switching on the device, it starts operating on the selected power consumption setting. Based on the average electricity cost in your area, which is about $0.12 per kilowatt-hour, then you are paying around $0.18 every hour for the device.

Keep in mind that this cost is for the highest heat setting on the radiator. If you operate it at an economic temperature, then it will cost you around $0.10 each hour. All in all, oil filled heaters do not use a lot of electricity.

Comparing The Best Oil Filled Heaters

1. DeLonghi EW7707CM Heater – Best Overall

Running on diathermic oil, the EW7707CM heater by Delonghi features seven fins. Being one of the most effective oil filled heaters today, this unit has a heat output of 1,500 Watts. As such, the heater is a great heating solution for small to medium-sized rooms.

Durability will not be a problem with this heater. In this regard, it features a compact, quality steel construction that has been proven to last for a long period.

With regard to convenience, the oil reservoir on this unit is permanently sealed. As such, you are not required to refill the oil throughout the lifespan of the heater.

The EW7707CM has 4 heat settings, allowing you to calibrate the unit to your desired temperature. This, coupled with its adjustable thermostat, make it a very efficient heating solution.

Additionally, the unit features thermal slots. These are meant to maximize heat transfer surface area, while keeping the temperature on its surface low.

2. NewAir AH-450B Electric Oil-Filled Space Heater – Radiant Heating At Its Best

While this unit has a heat output of 1,500 watts, it can heat a relatively larger space than the Delonghi EW7707CM reviewed above. Among the aspects you will find appealing about this heater is the display.

The NewAir AH-450B heater features an interactive display that is comparatively easy to use.  Through this display, you can easily choose between the 5 temperature settings and 3 heating options offered by the heater.

Again, you can also program the timer, up to 10 hours, through the same display. This being the case, you can program when the unit should start and shut down.

This ensures that the unit remains off when it is not needed, hence makes your home more energy efficient. With regards to safety, the AH-450B is equipped with auto shut off features, as well as set of protocols it should follow, in case it topples off.

3. DeLonghi TRD0715T Oil Filled Space Heater – Best Oil Filled Heater for Tight Spaces

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Although this heater can produce 1,500 watts, it is designed for use on comparatively smaller spaces, up to 100 square feet. In this regard, this model is equipped with thermal chimneys.

These are meant to deliver heat while keeping the surface of the heater cool. In addition to being an efficient unit, it comes with an effective thermostat.

This thermostat, along with the 3 temperature settings on the heater, allows you to choose your preferred indoor temperature. Additionally, these features make it possible for the unit to run efficiently. You will also like the programmable timer fitted on this oil filled heater.

This timer allows you to schedule when you want the unit to start and shut down. This further enhances its efficiency and will save you money on your monthly energy bills.

The outer part of this heater is made of metal, which makes it durable. However, the metal used on its surface is rust-resistant.

4. Kenmore Oil-filled Radiator Heater White – Large Room Heating & Most Portable Oil Filled Heater

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Are you looking for an oil filled heater that is portable and can heat a larger room? If so, the Kenmore Oil-filled Radiator heater would be a great choice.

While the heater features a compact and portable design, it is rather powerful, with a heat output of 1,500 watts. As such, the unit may be used to heat a larger room, when running on its highest temperature setting.

Basically, this Kenmore heater features 3 different heating settings. When on its lowest temperature settings, the unit can deliver up to 600 Watts. The medium temperature setting offers a heat output of 900 Watts, while the highest setting delivers 1,500 Watts.

This makes it a convenient portable heating solution. This is because it allows you to choose the right power output depending on the size of the room you are using it in.

The exterior part of this heater is made of high-quality metal for enhanced protection and durability. The surface metal on this unit is powder-coated to make it resistant to rust and scratches. This being the case, the unit is meant to last for years without compromise.

With regards to safety, this unit does not lag behind either. It is equipped with an automatic power shut-off feature to prevent overheating.

5. Honeywell EnergySmart electric oil radiator – The Best Oil Filled Heater for Large Rooms

If you are looking for a relatively affordable heater for large rooms, few models can beat the Honeywell EnergySmart Electric Oil Radiator.

To begin with, the sleek design with a black finish is both appealing and functional.  Just like most of the heaters reviewed above, this model delivers a silent performance. However, it is known to make some popping noises when running on the maximum power setting.

That said, the heater is equipped with variable temperature settings. This offers you complete control over the indoor temperature. Additionally, you will have an easy time moving this unit from one place to the other, thanks to its wheels. The programmable timer used on this heater allows you to program its uptime, up to 12 hours.

For the purpose of safety, this model is designed to shut down whenever it topples over. Additionally, it has overheat protection features and a heavy duty cord.

6. Insignia HTRFBK6 Oil Radiator – The Most Efficient Space Heater

The HTRFBK6 by Insignia is a high-end oil-filled heater that can easily cover an area of up to 144 square feet. The noiseless heating process ensures that you have a comfortable and peaceful experience.

For ensuring safety, it even comes with a tip-over switch, which is not a common feature in most oil-filled heaters. Additionally, it will give you the quality of an expensive coil heater, at a much lower price.

For extra durability, its wheels are mounted on metal brackets, instead of plastic ones. Getting one of these remote-controlled radiators is worth the investment.

7. Costway 700W Oil-Filled Radiator Heater – The Best Compact Room Mini Heater

Costway’s 700W oil-filled heater radiator is a decent choice if you have a small room. The compact design is great if your room or office does not have enough space for amenities.

Furthermore, it delivers a simple knob-based operation, which you can adjust to set the level of heat in the room. The oil used in this radiator is sealed completely to be used lifelong without the need for a replacement.

It does not come with wheels on the base to move it around the place, but the small size makes it easier to lift and carry with the help of the ergonomic handles built on its body. Nevertheless, the base has a large surface area so that the heater stays stable in place.

8. Costway 22913-CYPE Oil-Filled Heater Radiator – The Best Energy Efficient Space Heater

The CYPE 22913 is a 25” tall oil-filled radiator that defines portability with flexibility. With a three-level heat preference targeted through its impressive 1500W power output, it is certainly a decent choice.

No matter which heats setting you to keep it at, you will barely notice it on, as it does not make any sound. It also accompanies a tip-over switch that will keep it safe from overheating its body.

A sturdy and metallic wheelbase ensures that you carry it around different rooms in your house or office with ease. Additionally, it’s not that massive, so you can pick it up and carry it with the handles present on it.

9. Pelonis NY1507-14A Oil-Filled Heater – The Most Economical Radiator Heater

The Pelonis NY1507-14A is a premium heating unit that will offer you comfort with custom features. With five varying temperature preferences, you can enjoy relaxing with this in your room as per convenience.

Not to mention, you also get the impressive timer feature, which lets you set the duration for the radiator to stay working and do its work.

Pelonis has also given an economical setting on this device to ensure that you do not welcome high-electricity bills at your house. Additionally, its state-of-the-art design is completed with four swivel-based wheels for portability. 

10. DeLonghi TRN0812T Portable Electric Radiator – The Best Customizable Oil Filled Heater

DeLonghi’s TRN0812T is a real example of portability. The compact design is undoubtedly impressive. However, do not prejudice on its size, as it packs a decent power of 1200 watts to heat your small rooms.

This unit even comes with a timer setting, that is customizable to 96 different heating cycles. It makes it very user-friendly as you do not need to worry about its operation.

Besides, it even comes with a GFI plug that will keep you safe from electric shocks even while using it in the bathroom. It’s so portable that you do not also need wheels to move it around.

How Do Oil Filled Heaters Work?

Based on the principle of radiant heating and thermal convection, oil-filled heaters transfer heat radially, which covers all the directions simultaneously. It is possible because of the thermal oil inside the fins of the device.

With the help of an electrical element, the thermal oil in the reservoir starts heating up inside the unit. This element is completely covered in the oil, which makes the oil heat up with it.

Upon heating, the oil starts spreading its warmth in the surroundings. Unlike coil heater, it ensures that the heat is spread gradually. Whereas, coil-based heaters target a particular direction only.

Additionally, based on the power supplied to the electrical element, it can heat up more or less. That eventually heats the oil accordingly to let it spread the warmth of varying levels in a room.

How long Do Oil Filled Electric Radiator Heaters Last?

The lifespan of an oil-filled electric radiator depends directly on the durability of the resistance coil present in the appliance. Whenever an oil-filled heater is switched on, its coil heats up and warm the thermal oil.

That heat also diffuses the resistance coil out to the wire’s surface, where its oxidation takes place. If the heat configuration for the loop is kept between 750 to 1000F throughout the heating operation, then a radiator can last up to 20 years.

How Efficient Are Oil-Filled Heaters?

Oil-filled radiators are quite efficient, as they are likely to process 99% of the electricity into heat. The resistance coil or the electrical element is submerged in the thermal oil inside the unit.

That ensures the device to utilize the total electricity in heating the coil and the oil for carrying out its operation. Some units even reduce the amount of electricity consumption as a room starts heating up, which makes it more energy-efficient.

How Hot Do Oil-Filled Heaters Get?

All premium oil-filled heaters have programmable settings for the temperature levels. That makes them capable of maintaining a particular temperature.

You can easily program such units between a temperature range of 41 and 82F. That does make it a hot device to touch directly, so avoid that.

The radiation of heat in a room, when this appliance starts heating, takes about 15 minutes to warm up the room. Duration also depends upon the number of fins on a radiator. More fins mean less time to heat a room.

Therefore, it is not safe to touch a radiator that has been in operation for a couple of minutes.

Things You Must Know Before Buying an Oil Filled Heater

Having decided that your new heater is going to be an oil-filled radiator, the next step will be choosing the best unit in the market. You probably know that this is not an easy task, especially if you do not know what to look for.

While there are numerous makes and models of oil radiators available today, not all of them are good.

If you are shopping for the right oil burning heater for your home, here are some of the aspects you need to consider:

1. Heater Type

Based on their functioning/mode of heating, oil-filled heaters may be categorized into several groups. While shopping for the right unit for heating your home, it is advisable to choose the right type of heater.

In this regard, the main types of oil-filled heaters available today include:

• Radiant heaters
• Convective heaters
• Micathermic heaters

If you are looking for a good whole-house heating solution, it is advisable to buy the best convective oil-filled heater. Such a heater will ensure that you get even heating in all the rooms in your home.

The radiant heaters, on the other hand, are best suited for spot heating. When used in smaller spaces, radiant oil-filled heaters will give a fast and widespread heating performance.

2. Indoor or Outdoor Installation

Where would you like your new heater to be installed; inside or outside the house? Basically, the various oil filled heaters are suited for outdoor installation. This is mainly because of the carbon monoxide poisoning risk they pose. Again, most of these heaters are relatively huge and bulky.

As such, they require a considerable amount of space for installation. This makes them ideal for outdoor installation. They also need a good power source, and if you’ll use them for only a few hours on certain days, 5 Best Pure Sine Wave Inverters will definitely suffice.

3. Safety Features

As opposed to the traditional oil heaters, modern oil-filled heaters are safer and more efficient. However, you still need to ensure that your preferred unit is safe enough for you and your family.

In this regard, you need to ensure that the heater has the necessary safety features. These are some of the important safety features you should consider:

• Overheating Control – Overheating on your heater can lead to problems in your home. To be on the safe side, your preferred unit should have features to prevent overheating. Such features should be aimed at shutting the heater down when it starts to overheat.
• Rounded edges – Most oil-filled heaters have fins that are meant to enhance the efficiency of heat transfer. Therefore, you need to ensure that the fin edges are rounded. This will reduce the risk of injury for the children and pets in your home.
• Over-tipping Safety – While most of the leading oil-filled heater models are stable, you still need to ensure that they have such a feature. With this feature, the unit will automatically shut down whenever it is not standing upright. This reduces the risk of fire.

4. Heating Capacity

Any oil filled space heater installation experts will tell you that not just any portable electric heater is ideal for your home. The right heater should be able to heat the space effectively without straining or overworking. While choosing the right heater capacity, you need to consider the square footage of the space you would like to heat.

Since there are several aspects that need to be considered, In this regard, you should let expert advise you on this matter. The right course of action would be to have the installation contractor asses your home and ascertain the right heater capacity.

5. Energy Efficiency

A considerable number of Americans today are upgrading their homes to make them more efficient. Having an efficient oil filled heater installed in your home will improve energy efficiency significantly. As such, energy efficiency rating is one of the things that you must consider while shopping for the right unit.

In addition to this rating, you should also look for features like an efficient thermostat, programmable timers, and energy-saving modes. Such components will make your heating system more efficient.

6. Heat Settings

Besides the price, this aspect determines the possibilities of a heater and the level of comfort. Some oil heaters are fitted with a digital display, while others make different beeping sounds when their buttons are pressed. Also, there are radiators with a timer function.

While these fancy features can make a heater more appealing, the question is whether these extra settings are really necessary. Analog heaters can do a good job of warming up your room at a considerably lower price. Furthermore, devices with a lot of digital functions are more prone to failure.

As far as the heat settings, you will definitely want a unit with at least 2 power settings and a thermostat. The output settings let you have greater control over power consumption. Additionally, the thermostat will help you lower your bills by switching the heater off whenever a certain room temperature is reached.

Oil Filled Heaters FAQ’s

Q: Can Oil Filled Heaters Explode?

A: The oil-filled heater can explode if any thermal fuses don’t shut it off for some reason. This can wreak havoc on your house. In addition to the fire, that may cause unpleasant odors, thick black smoke, disfiguring scalding, and oil on your walls.

In order to increase the airflow, some companies include a fan in their oil heaters. These heaters are proven to be safer to operate.

By the way, oil-filled heaters are considered to be the safest heaters available. Here’s what you get with such a heater:

• Built-in safety features
• No exposed heating elements
• Non-scorching surfaces
• No grilles or vents
• No gas or fumes

Q: What Are the Advantages of Oil Filled Heaters?

A: You might be wondering why use an oil heater in your office or home? What sets them apart from other heaters on the market.

Here are the most important advantages of using an oil heater:

• Energy efficient
• Don’t dry the air
• No noisy fan
• Thermostat controlled
• Portable and compact
• Oil doesn’t need replenishing

Q: Which Heaters are Cheapest to Run?

A: Electric heaters are deemed to be 100 percent efficient given that all the electricity is turned into heat. However, some electric heaters provide a lot of heat and are very expensive to operate.

The most expensive are fan heaters and bar fires. On the other hand, the cheapest heaters to run are oil-filled radiators and halogen heaters.

Ready To Buy The Best Oil Filled Heaters?

Unless you know what to look for in an oil-filled space heater, choosing the right unit in the market is going to be challenging for you. As you may be aware, a heater that works best for one home may not be the right choice for another home.

Also keep in mind that if you love the outdoors, you should get a separate radiator heater that would work best in an outside setting, like these Top-rated Tank Top Propane Heaters.

Basically, the right unit should be powerful enough to heat the space in question faster and more efficiently. Regardless of the heating requirements of your home, this guide will make it easier for you to choose the best oil filled heater.

And, if you want to save more money on your bills, just like oil-filled heaters do, consider also buying the right light switches.