KITCHENS AND BATHROOMS - DOWNFLOW FAN HEATERS

Running Cost Information

It is not possible to provide detailed information on running costs because there are so many variables to consider – what electricity tariff will be used, how long the heater will be on for, what setting the thermostat will be on, etc – all these factors need to be taken into account when working out the running cost of a heating system.

However, there is often confusion about the running costs of electric heating compared to other fuels; but for installed heating the real cost of the energy to heat the system is only part of the picture. The true cost to consider is the annual running cost – taking into account not only the fuel used but the hidden cost of maintaining the system.

It is also worth noting that within the electric heating industry, there have been considerable product developments in recent years and modern electric heating appliances offer advanced levels of control and economy. Look out for products with accurate thermostatic control and timers, which will help reduce running costs further.

There have also been significant increases in the price of fuel in recent years, and whilst electricity prices have gone up, the increases are not as significant as gas. In fact Energywatch – the independent gas and electricity consumer watchdog – reported in July 2006 that some energy suppliers had increased the cost of gas to their customers by as much as 92% since 2003, while the price of electricity had increased by only 54%.

For comparative lifetime costs of a gas and electric system, please visit the Dimplex 'resource' website by clicking here