What To Look For in a Halogen Heaters
The best halogen heaters have at least two adjustable power settings, giving flexibility over both temperature and energy consumption. Look for a heater with a minimum of 400W; this is sufficient for heating a small to medium-sized room.
Oscillation is an important feature to look out for if you have a multi-occupant household. Given that halogen heaters use radiant heat, oscillation is useful on occasions when there’s more than one person in the room. This is because halogen heaters don’t heat the air; their warmth is primarily transferred to objects directly in front of them. For use as a personal heater, oscillation isn’t so important.
For more control over electricity usage, choose a halogen heater with a thermostat. The amount of energy saved in the moments when it automatically turns off will add up over time.
Another important thing to consider is how easily the bulbs can be replaced. This is much easier to do with some halogen heaters than others. Replaceable bulbs can help extend the life of the heater overall, so it’s worth taking into consideration. In some cases, you can go one step further and get a heater that comes with spare bulbs included.
My top pick is the Igenix IG9514 3 Bar Halogen Heater. It has three power settings, (400, 800 and 1200 W) and a lightweight yet stable design. Unlike many halogen heaters, it has an ergonomic handle, making it easier to move between rooms (or into your garage or caravan!). There’s no thermostat, but the adjustable power settings can help control energy usage.
For more information about this heater, plus some alternative options, take a look at the reviews below.