During the colder months, conservatories can quickly transform from tranquil retreats into chilly, unwelcoming spaces. When faced with the task of warming these areas, homeowners often opt for one of the two main permanent solutions: extending their existing central heating system, usually powered by a gas boiler, or installing an independent electric heating system. While many people resort to gas central heating or purchase inexpensive electric heaters such as fan or infrared heaters, these options frequently prove insufficient for achieving the desired level of comfort. The main problem with gas central heating systems is that they’re not 100% efficient in terms of energy use, leading to wasted energy and higher energy bills over time.

If you’re contemplating a conservatory heating options solution that’s not only cost effective but also efficient, you might wish to consider the advantages of electric radiators. These electric heating systems offer a more energy-efficient way to keep your conservatory comfortably warm, even during the harshest of winter months.

The Problem With Gas

While gas may appear to be a straightforward solution, it’s important to note that this approach comes with its own set of challenges and inefficiencies, which could end up being both time-consuming and costly.

Building Regulations and Planning Permission

First and foremost, extending a gas central heating system into a conservatory involves navigating a maze of building regulations. In many jurisdictions, this will also require you to secure planning permission from local authorities, which can be a lengthy and unpredictable process. These administrative hurdles are not only time-consuming but can also incur added costs for architectural designs, application fees, and other related expenses.

Complex Installations

Once you’ve cleared the regulatory hurdles, you’ll need to embark on a complex and often disruptive installation process. This usually entails ripping up floors and walls to lay new piping, potentially requiring alterations to your existing central heating system. This not only extends the duration of the project but can also lead to unanticipated complications that may escalate costs further.

Energy Efficiency Concerns

The design of gas radiators, while effective in many settings, is generally less energy-efficient when it comes to heating conservatories. Unlike other rooms in the house, conservatories are primarily made of glass, which is a poor insulator. Therefore, it’s often difficult to retain the heat generated by a gas radiator, making it a less economical choice in the long run.

Loss of Independent Control

Another downside is the lack of independent temperature control. A gas radiator in the conservatory would typically be linked to the home’s central heating system. This means that to heat the conservatory, you would often need to heat the rest of the house as well, leading to unnecessary energy consumption.

What are the benefits of electric radiators?

Electric radiators offer a plethora of advantages over gas radiators. They require no planning permission since they aren’t connected to your existing central heating system. Plus, they come with independent thermostat controls for maximum convenience.

Independent Thermostat Controls

Having an independent thermostat for your conservatory provides the flexibility to customise the room’s temperature without affecting the climate in the rest of the house. This way, you can have separate temperature and create a cosy atmosphere in your conservatory according to its specific needs, whether you’re aiming for a cool oasis in the summer or a warm retreat in the winter, all without disrupting the comfort settings in other areas of your home.

No Complex Installations

Avoid the red tape and complicated installations that come with gas heating solutions. Our Butterfly Range offers a refreshingly straightforward alternative to gas heating system. These electric radiators can be effortlessly mounted on the wall, eliminating the need for any complicated plumbing or wiring. Plus, the plug-and-play design means you can have them up and running in no time, all without requiring a specialist. Your designated DIY enthusiast can handle the installation, making the process as seamless as possible.

Custom choices

The beautiful part of choosing electric heaters for your conservatory is that you can choose a shape to fit anywhere you want it to go. For instance, The Karner is an electric radiator designed to fit just under your windowsills, for a stunning vertical radiator that looks like a piece of art and can merge in with the décor, take a look at The Monarch. Looking for more of a traditional radiator? Then our Admiral could be the perfect style for you!

As well don’t forget colour is an excellent way to compliment the style of your space. Currently, we offer a full colour pallet to choose from with the standardised RAL colours - imagine a striking radiator, slim in design, full of your chosen colour -they can look like a piece of art.

We also offer modular designs which is a huge benefit when it comes to changing colours. Your décor may be lemons and whites and you pick a soft lemon-coloured radiator and then in a couple of years you change your décor to grey – all you do is swap out the front, top and sides of your radiator to anthracite which will give you a whole new look. Modular radiators can complement every décor change you ever have.

Customer Approval

Still on the electric heating fence? Read our customer reviews to find out why so many homeowners have confidently embraced electric radiators as their heating solution of choice!

Factors to Consider: From Double Glazing to Design

Due to the unique architecture of conservatories and orangeries, they are often susceptible to drawing in cold air through the windows, particularly during the colder months. To counteract this and retain heat well, it’s crucial to have double-glazed windows. Double glazing works by trapping a layer of air between two panes of glass, creating an insulating barrier that minimises heat loss. This ensures that your electric radiators or other heating systems operate at peak efficiency.

In addition, the quality of your insulation plays a pivotal role. High-quality insulation material in the walls, roof, and flooring can further trap heat inside, making it easier for independent heating system to maintain a comfortable temperature. Together, double glazing and effective insulation create a synergistic effect, optimising the performance of any heating system you choose to install, from electric radiators to underfloor heating. Investing in both will not only enhance your comfort but can also lead to significant energy savings in the long run.

Another key element must be the design of the heater. We find that people spend thousands on designing and furnishing their wonderful new space and then fit a radiator into their conservatory that is unattractive, and bulky ruining the ambience they wanted to create. At The Conservatory Heating Company, we have designed one of the slimmest electric conservatory radiators on the market that compliments your conservatory décor without taking up to much space!

Final thoughts

When it comes to heating your conservatory, the choice between a gas heating system and electric system isn’t one to be made lightly. Gas radiators may seem like a straightforward option, but the complexities of installation, regulatory hurdles, and inefficiency make them less appealing for many homeowners. Electric radiators, on the other hand, offer a host of advantages including easy installation, independent thermostat controls, and a plethora of design options to suit every taste and aesthetic requirement.

Additionally, the effectiveness of your heating system can be significantly boosted with proper insulation and double glazing. These are not mere add-ons, but essential components that can make your conservatory a truly comfortable space, all year round.

So, as you ponder over the right heating solution for your conservatory, consider not just the initial costs but also the long-term benefits in terms of energy efficiency, ease of control, and aesthetic appeal. By making a well-informed decision, you can transform your conservatory into a welcoming extension of your home, regardless of the season.

For further information, download our FREE guide or request a call back from our team.