The most energy-efficient way to set an electric heater is to choose a moderate temperature, use the timer, and only heat the room where you are sitting. The power determines the maximum consumption of the device, so the shorter and more targeted your heating, the lower your costs will remain.
First the basics: power is consumption
An electric heater converts almost all electricity into heat. The consumption therefore follows directly from the power: a 2000 W device uses 2 kWh per hour at full load, a 1500 W device uses 1.5 kWh. Based on an assumption of 0.30 euros per kWh, 2000 W therefore costs about 60 cents per hour and 1500 W about 45 cents. Your own energy rate may be different, so check that in your contract. More calculation examples are in our article about the power consumption of a heater per hour.
How to set a heater efficiently
Start with a temperature that you find comfortable instead of the maximum setting. Every extra degree requires electricity for longer or more often. In addition, only heat when you are in the room and use the timer to turn the device off automatically. A short period at high power to warm up the room, followed by a lower setting, often works more efficiently than full load for hours.
With many heaters, the consumption is reduced or interrupted as soon as the set temperature is reached. How exactly that works varies per device, so read in the manual what your heater does. It is certainly useful to have a set temperature, because you will not continue to heat after reaching a comfortable warmth.
Heat the room, not the whole house
The biggest savings are in targeted heating. A heater for one room can be more advantageous than heating the whole house, but that only applies if you keep the rest of the house lower. Whether that works for you depends on your home and your heating system. You can find a comparison in electric heater or central heating for one room.
Close the door of the room you are heating and make sure the windows are closed. Curtains help to limit heat loss. Keep the airflow of the heater free from furniture and curtains, also for your safety. Therefore, also read where you place an electric heater most safely.
Direct answer: choose a moderate temperature, set the timer, close the door, and only heat the room where you are sitting.
Overview: setting and effect
| Setting | Effect on consumption | When useful |
|---|---|---|
| High power (2000 W) | Quickly warm, highest consumption per hour | Short warm-up phase |
| Lower power (1500 W) | Lower consumption per hour | Maintain temperature afterwards |
| Lower temperature | Less electricity | If you are active or dressed warmer |
| Timer | Prevents unnecessary overheating | Evening hours or before bedtime |
The Dynter HW2002 electric heater
The Dynter HW2002 has adjustable power and a timer function, so you can directly apply that approach. The data below comes from the product page.
Power: 1500 to 2000 W
Suitable for: rooms up to 40 m²
Temperature: adjustable from 15 °C to 45 °C
Operation: LCD touchscreen and remote control
Timer: automatic shut-off
Safety: overheating protection and fall detection
Other: rotating function for even heat distribution
Get started immediately
View the Dynter HW2002 electric heater or discover all models in the heaters collection. If you are unsure which type fits your room, read which electric heater fits your room.
Frequently asked questions
Is a heater on low setting more energy-efficient?
Per hour yes, because the power is lower. Whether it is more energy-efficient in total depends on how long it takes before the room is comfortable. A lower setting may also take longer.
How much does a 2000 W heater cost per hour?
At full load, it consumes 2 kWh per hour. At an assumption of 0.30 euros per kWh, that is about 60 cents per hour.
Is the timer really useful for saving?
Yes, because the heater does not continue when you leave the room or fall asleep. Use it as a tool and check how your device behaves.
Should I heat one room or the whole house?
For a room where you sit for a longer time, a heater can be useful, provided the rest of the house remains lower. Calculate it for your situation.
Where do I place a heater for the best heat distribution?
On a flat, clear spot, with space around it and not right next to curtains or furniture. With the HW2002, the rotating function helps to distribute the heat better.