7 best oil heaters 2024 | Top-reviewed oil heaters
From various size options to different features, here's our round up of the best oil heaters to keep you warm in winter - including the affordable oil heater that shoppers are praising for "warming up the room within minutes".
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On a cold day, there’s nothing better than staying indoors with your favourite book or comfort TV show. Keeping warm can be a challenge though, and sometimes your favourite fleecy blanket just isn’t enough to combat that winter chill.
Buying a heater will do the trick, but working out which type to buy isn’t easy – especially when you factor in the cost of running each model.
Oil column heaters work a little differently to other types of electric heaters because they contain oil inside the columns (or fins). This makes them perfect at keeping the space cosy for longer since oil is great a retaining heat. They also come in various size options with a range of different features, making it easy to find one to suit your needs.
We've spotted the De’Longhi Portable Convection Heater on sale at Amazon for just $59. With over 1500 5-star reviews, shoppers say this " beautiful heater works like magic and keeps my room nice and toasty".
Another top pick is the De'Longhi TRRS0715E.G, 1500W Radia S Oil Column Heater w/Timer which is $169 (down from $219). With a 4.6 rating, shopper says, "It's compact size is ideal for smaller rooms and silent operation allows you to sleep at night."
OUR TOP PICKS
BEST AFFORDABLE OIL HEATERS
De’Longhi Portable Convection Heater (HCM2030), $59 (down from $89) at Amazon Australia
What You Need To Know
This freestanding heater offers an adjustable thermostat with three heat settings to help you achieve the right level of cosiness. The winter warmer is also super silent and features a double insulated design to prevent the unit from getting super hot to touch, plus carry handles for convenience. Move from room to room or wall mount for permanent warmth.
Reviews say the portable heater looks smaller than expected, making it a great option for those short on space. They also describe it as an "excellent product" and a “powerful and silent” go-to addition for the bedroom, especially if you want instant and long lasting warmth.
"Great little heater that really helps keep the winter cold out," commented one Amazon shopper. "This little heater warms up the room within minutes & once it's warm you can adjust it to maintain temperature."
Another wrote, "Bought this since gas prices are ridiculous and I only need to heat up my small bathroom in winter. It is pretty powerful, will heat up the room in 5 minutes and is easy to use."
And this five star reviewer wrote, " Great for instant heat in any room and no fan so no noise!"
De’Longhi 2400W Dragon 4 Oil Column Heater (TRD42400MT), $299 (down from $319) at The Good Guys
What You Need To Know
This handy heater features a chimney design and contains 11 fins designed to provide rapid air flow, giving you short heat up time as well as consistent and long lasting warmth. You can also expect Real Energy technology, a 24-hour timer, thermostat, rotary dials and several safety functions for peace of mind.
“I am happy with this heater," a shopper commented. "I bought it for my bedroom and liked it so much I got one for my parents. It's efficient and on those really cold nights kept the room comfy. Highly recommended.”
“I bought it for my office which is within a shed and has concrete floors and medium height ceiling throughout. It’s pretty much an open space work area. I must admit I was a little sceptical about whether it would be adequate but it is just amazing and I would highly recommend it.
“The column heater stays warm for at least an hour (after switching the heater off). It is not like the old oil column heaters which took an eon to heat up – these are quick and they have a fan for an extra blast if you need it. Like I said – I was sceptical to begin with but I could not be without it now.”
Heller 1000W Electric Portable 5 Fin Oil Heater (HOIL5), $75 at Betta
What You Need To Know
Heller is a budget friendly brand to keep an eye on, and one of Australia’s top suppliers for heating, cooling and other small electrical appliances.
This Heller oil heater comes with pretty much everything you would need to stay toasty, including three heat settings (400W, 600W and 1000W) and thermostat control. The model also features a durable enamel finish, along with castor wheels for easy manoeuvrability and cord storage for convenience. You can also expect the standard overheat protection and tilt-switch safety functions.
"Works well," wrote one five-star reviewer on the Betta website. "Purchased to warm my legs under the desk at work."
Another said, "Great little heater, for smaller spaces. I would recommend this product."
BEST DE’LONGHI OIL HEATER
What You Need To Know
The portable heater additionally has a digital control panel that allows you to easily cycle through its three heat settings, set the timer and adjust the thermostat. The power saving mode helps minimise energy usage, while a seven year warranty will see you through a good many winters to come.
"Excellent heater and the temp control is very accurate," wrote one happy shopper.
"Worth every penny," commented another. "Heats up the whole room and actually keeps it very warm and even after you turn it off, the residue heat from the heater stays warm."
BEST ENERGY SAVING OIL HEATERS
De’Longhi 2000W Radia S Oil Column Heater (TRRS0920T), $169 (down from $189) at Amazon Australia
What You Need To Know
Labelled by shoppers as a "very efficient heater”, this De’Longhi unit produces 2000W of heating power and is a smaller version of the brand’s popular 2400W Radia S Column Heater featured above. Equipped with three power settings, a 24 hour timer and an adjustable room thermostat, this heater works heard to save energy while creating heat. Plus, with castor wheels, it can be rolled from room to room to warm up whatever space you need.
One five-star reviewer commented, "Very efficient heater for its size, ideal for the small to medium size rooms."
Another said, "We love our heater. It warms up a medium sized room within ten minutes."
BEST OIL HEATER FOR BABY ROOM
De’Longhi 1500W Radia S Oil Column Heater (TRRS0715T), $159 at The Good Guys
De’Longhi 1500W Radia S Oil Column Heater
What You Need To Know
Consumer advocacy group Choice suggests column heaters are one of the safest types of heaters to use since they don’t have exposed heating elements, unlike some radiator heaters. These units also typically produce lower surface temperatures, and provide better stability since they’re generally designed heavier and often come with wall mounting kits for families that don’t want a freestanding model. (But this doesn’t mean there aren’t any danger risks.)
One option to consider is the De’Longhi 1500W Radia S Oil Column Heater. It offers three heat settings and includes a 24-hour timer, plus a room thermostat and anti-frost function to ensure the room maintains your set temperature. The appliance also includes cord storage and a safety auto-off system.
BEST OIL HEATERS FOR SMALL ROOMS
Dimplex 2.4kW Oil Free Column Heater Turbo Fan (ECR24FA), $209 at The Good Guys
Dimplex 2.4kW Oil Free Column Heater Turbo Fan
What You Need To Know
Dimplex tackled the problem of long heat-up times with an oil-free alternative that uses a radiator design, which apparently allows the unit to warm up faster since there’s no need to wait for oil to reach the set temperature. Fast and efficient when you need it most.
Shoppers are certainly impressed with the oil-free design, with most praising the appliance for its short heat up time and quiet operation.
“I live in a studio open plan living unit with very high ceilings and it heats up that space with very little effort. Absolutely love it and highly recommend it to anyone in a similar situation or just for a large living room,” one person posted on The Good Guys website, rating it five stars.
“The best heater we’ve had. (H)eats the room very quickly and looks great. 10 out of 10,” agreed another.
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If an oil-filled column heater isn’t quite hitting the mark, there are other types of heaters that might work for you. Plus, an oil heater isn’t the only way you can stay warm this winter. Check out our alternative recommendations below or see our full guide to the best electric heaters.
Dyson Purifier Hot+Cool Formaldehyde Fan Heater, $999 (down from $1149) at The Good Guys
Why we love it: This incredible device heats, cools, and purifies the air.
What to consider: It is expensive but it works hard for the money all year round.
Size: 76.4cm x 13cm x W 20.5cm | Weight: 5.7kg
What You Need To Know
No need to worry about storage. Fan heaters like this one from Dyson that can be left out – and actually used – in all four seasons.
It has both heating and cooling capabilities, plus a purifier function as well as HEPA and carbon filters to capture allergens, pollutants and gases. The Dyson model additionally oscillates and tilts to help circulate the air throughout the room, and features voice control, a timer and night and standby modes.
One customer uploaded the comment, "Quiet, simple to use, almost instant heat, elegant looking!!!"
Giselle Bedding Weighted Blanket 7kg, $71.95 (down from $76.95) at Myer
Why we love it: A super calming (and well priced) blanket that is weighted with eco-friendly glass beads to relax and unwind, while staying cosy and warm.
What to consider: Make sure you select the right blanket weight to suit your body weight.
Size: 152cm X 203cm | Weight: 5kg, 7kg, 9kg, 11kg | Colour: Dark grey
What You Need To Know
Weighted blankets have become hugely popular over the past few years, making now a great time to invest. Weighed down with a heavy materials like micro glass beads, this blanket, moulds around your body shape, mimicking the feel when we hug a loved one. This is claimed to help us relax and potentially improve our quality of sleep, plus the breathable microfibre cover makes it super soft and cosy.
"Incredible quality which improved my sleep greatly!" wrote one Myer customer. "Do not feel overheated and was cosy under the soft covering."
Another said, "Works well! Exactly what i wanted a good night sleep."
If you’re experiencing anxiety or stress, it’s important to speak to your GP or a mental health professional about the options available that could assist you. Alternatively, please contact Lifeline by calling 13 11 14 or head here.
The Oodie Hooded Blanket, from $79 (down from $109) at Oodie
Why we love it: A super calming (and well priced) blanket that is weighted with eco-friendly glass beads to relax and unwind, while staying cosy and warm.
What to consider: Can take a while to dry.
What You Need To Know
Oodies are a mash up between a wearable blanket and a giant hoodie, and after gaining popularity during the 2020 isolation period, they’re back again to get us through another chilly winter. The machine-washable designs feature soft flannel fleece on the outside and warm sherpa fleece on the inside, ensuring that you stay snug even on the coldest of days. They’re also available in a range of fun prints, giving you plenty of great options to choose from.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING AN OIL HEATER
So many oil heaters, so little time – and unfortunately, not all are created equal. These are a few factors to think about when choosing the right model for your home.
Size and power
To get the most out of your electric heater, it’s important to find a model with the right amount of power so you’re not using more electricity than you need to or forking out for a very powerful heater but only end up using the lowest setting). Keep in mind that higher ceilings (taller than 2.5m) need a little more power.
Here’s a rough guide on what to look for:
• Small rooms (no larger than 20 sqm): 1000W to 1500W
• Small to medium rooms (between 20 and 40 sqm): 2000W to 2500W
• Large rooms (at least 40 sqm): at least 2500W
Overheat protection and tip-over switch
For peace of mind, most oil heaters are fitted with safety features like overheat protection and auto-off tip-over switches. These automatically switch the heater off whenever the unit gets too hot or falls over.
Thermostat control
An adjustable thermostat automatically maintains your set temperature by automatically changing the settings. This is particularly useful for preventing the room getting overly hot the longer it runs, as well as ensuring the heater doesn’t consume more energy than needed.
Timer
A programmable timer is really handy if you want to leave your oil heater on overnight or schedule the unit to work at certain times. Most models offer a three-hour or 24-hour timer.
Freestanding or wall mounted
Don’t want your oil heater placed on the floor? Check if the model is wall mountable. If it is, it will likely come with a wall mounting kit.
Castors and handles
Need a portable heater? Many oil heaters have built-in wheels and handles for easy manoeuvrability.
HOW WE CHOOSE PRODUCTS
Our team of experienced writers spend hours researching products to include in articles. We find out what factors make a good product by talking to experts, reviewing test results and analysing thousands of real customer reviews.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
ARE THERE ANY SPECIFIC SAFETY FEATURES TO CONSIDER IN OIL HEATERS?
All heaters come with some level of risk, but oil heaters are generally a pretty safe option because they don’t have any exposed elements and their surface temperature is usually lower than many other heater types. They work by heating (not burning) oil that is enclosed within the columns, which means there’s a low risk of fires – unless the oil leaks.
In addition to taking extra precautions, including never leaving towels or clothes draped over the heater, it’s worth keeping an eye out for a timer, adjustable thermostat control, overheat protection and tip-over switch.
ARE OIL HEATERS SAFE TO LEAVE ON OVERNIGHT?
Yes, oil heaters are safe to leave on for long periods of time, including while you sleep – in fact, they’re ideal for it, since they’re known for providing long lasting, rather than instantaneous heat. However, we do recommend opting for a model with a timer, so you can have your unit switch off during the night if needed. Ensure the heater is set in the middle of the room away from objects.
Most oil column heaters also come with an overheat protection safety device, which automatically turns the unit off once it detects that the inside of the unit has become too hot.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE FOR AN OIL HEATER TO WARM UP A ROOM?
Depending on the power output of your heater and room size, it can take between 30 minutes and a couple of hours for an oil heater to fully warm up compared. But while they’re slower compared to other types of models, oil heaters retain heat much better and can keep the room warm for hours after the unit has been turned off.
ARE OIL HEATERS NOISY DURING OPERATION?
Oil heaters should be fairly quiet since they don’t contain a fan to distribute heat throughout the room. Instead, there may be some popping noises when the heater is switched on and starts heating the oil and metal, but this should stop once it’s fully warmed up.
ARE THERE ANY MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS FOR OIL HEATERS?
No – unlike gas heaters, oil heaters don’t need to be refuelled. The main thing to look out for is any leakage – in such cases, the heater cannot be repaired and you must stop using it immediately. If the appliance is under warranty, make sure to contact your manufacturer to see if you can get the unit replaced.
ARE OIL HEATERS CHEAP TO RUN?
Oil heaters are cost-effective when used for extended periods, such as more than three hours. Otherwise they can be pricier to run than other types of heaters since they take longer to heat up, which ends up using more electricity and money.
When Canstar Blue crunched the numbers, the research comparison site found Aussies could pay anywhere between $104 and $180 (depending on where you live). This total covers the three months of winter, provided you use the oil heater for three hours every day.
If you’re looking for an affordable and energy-efficient heater, panel or convection models are the way to go.
DO OIL HEATERS USE A LOT OF ELECTRICITY?
Oil heaters typically consume a decent chunk of energy since they take a little longer to fire up than other electric models. This is because the oil inside the columns needs to heat up to the right temperature before it can start warming the external casings that eventually transfer the heat around the room.
On the upside, they’re great at warming entire rooms and retain heat really well – so, you won’t need to constantly switch your heater on and off, which is likely to cost you even more. Plus, most heaters come with a thermostat to maintain the set temperature. This prevents the temperature from constantly changing, which forces the heater to work extra hard (and use more electricity).
Stay warm in style this winter, while you’re out and about – check out our roundups of the best winter dresses to buy in Australia; the best men’s jackets, from coats to bombers; and the best women’s jackets to keep you snug.
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