Top 5 Best Greenhouse Heaters – We compare electric, gas and paraffin models
Among the equipment you need to run a successful greenhouse is a reliable heater. When the seasons change and the temperatures fluctuate, a greenhouse heater is able to assist in controlling the temperature. Some of the heaters in the market feature a fan that is able to run independently, therefore, providing both cooling and heating effects. You can get your hands on an affordable model that does exactly what you want. Greenhouse heaters come in many shapes and designs therefore, you have the freedom to choose.
Regardless of whether you need an electric or gas model, or even an old school paraffin heater, the truth of the matter is that greenhouse heaters are a worthy investment and a great help in keeping a greenhouse frost free for more tender plants or warmer if needed. Today we present models that could all make the best greenhouse heater for different users. These products cover the different kinds of greenhouse heaters that you can find in the market. We have already picked our best pick model but we'll leave it up to you to make comparisons and select one that suits your needs. Read through the greenhouse heater reviews and buying guide to make sure that you grasp what to look for.
Quality greenhouse heaters don’t come cheap and our best pick, the Biogreen PHX 2.8/GB Phoenix Electric Fan Heater is no different. It features a thermostat for controlling the temperature, different heat settings, a 2.8Kw powerful motor with a robust fan to provide optimal performance. You really have to try it to know what the fuss is about.
BEST PICK
Although an expensive greenhouse heater, the 2.8Kw heater has a thermostat and three heat settings that you can manipulate through the year to keep your greenhouse running and temperatures optimal. It is a strong heater that covers an area of 100ft2 which means it can cater to small or larger greenhouses. If you don't want the fuss of gas/propane heaters, this is the heater to get. It comes with a 3-year warranty backing up that the quality can be trusted and Biogreen have become a big name in the greenhouse heating category.
Mini Buyers Guide
When we set out to find the best greenhouse heater we had to make some considerations as some of the basic features required. Protection from moisture damage is required especially if you have active watering systems in the greenhouse, it's worth noting most are splash proof and not water proof which means they will be safe in a damp humid environment but don't have them under a water sprinkler. Considerations of the size of the greenhouse that needs heating are important. Finding the right-sized heater ensures there is enough heat to go around.
There are other considerations like the power source that we will discuss in the buying guide, electric is easier to use but gas heaters usually provide more heat if you need to keep your greenhouse at a higher temperature or where you have no access to electric. If you want to keep your greenhouse just above freezing and are willing to watch the forecast for frost, then using a paraffin heater is all you will need and is the cheapest option but they don't have a thermostat so you can get caught out if we have unexpected frost. For most people, electric is going to be the way to go.
RUNNER-UP
This is a reliable option for those who would prefer a gas heater over electric. Whether you need to keep your greenhouse frost free or at a warmer temperature, this model can maintain from 1-2c for frost free use or up to 25c for tender plant or any temperature in-between. It features a thermostat that is required to control a consistent temperature. It also has the flame failure device to ensure the pilot light is always lit. Made from stainless steel, you can rest knowing that you are getting good value for your money. Simple to use and very effective.
Top 5 Greenhouse Heater Reviews
Biogreen PHX 2.8/GB Phoenix Electric Fan Heater
Pros
The Biogreen PHX 2.8/GB Phoenix Electric Fan Heater is a powerful model that can be hang by chains or mounted on the floor offering more flexibility when it comes to positioning your heater. The heater offers a maximum energy output of 2.8Kw and also comes with 3 heat settings making it more energy efficient. You can adjust the intensity of the heat depending on the temperature requirements of the plants. The heater has a temperature range of between 0-26 degrees Celsius and it is fitted with a quality capillary thermostat to keep the temperature in check and maintain a specific temperature from frost free to a warmer temperature for more tender plants.
Measuring 41 x 22 x 33cm, this greenhouse heater is fairly compact and features a quiet running fan with cooling and heating setting, this means it can also be used to cool the greenhouse in summer and circulate the air better. The greenhouse heater has a waterproof rating of IPX4 which is adequate to protect it from moisture damage but as with all greenhouse heaters, it's not totally waterproof so be sure to position out of reach of water sprinklers.
This easy to use heater is recommended for those who want to heat up areas up to 100ft2 if you want to maintain a certain temperature but will keep a greenhouse or tunnel free frost up to 180 sq. ft. It is also covered with a 3-year warranty for extra peace of mind and comes with chains/floor feet for easy setup giving you plenty of positioning options. Overall, its probably one of the best electric greenhouse heaters suitable for a good sized greenhouse or smaller ones. In terms of build quality, features and more important reliability, this really is a top rated product well with considering if you have the budget.
If you don't have access to electric, then our next pick below which is also manufactured by Biogreen but is gas powered, may be the best alternative and has similar features with thermostatic control.
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Bio Green FY 25/GB 2.5KW Frosty Propane Greenhouse Heater
Pros
Perfect for overwintering and cultivation of plants, whether you need to keep your greenhouse frost free for tender plants or growing cutting, the Bio Green FY 25/GB 2.5KW Frosty Propane Greenhouse Heater offers safety, durability and more importantly reliability. Made from stainless steel, this model can be wall-mounted or left freestanding depending on how you want to set it up. The 2.5Kw model’s steel structure protects the heating elements and provides durability.
The radiant heat produced by this heater ensures that there are no cold pockets in the greenhouse which helps maintain a consistent temperature throughout the greenhouse. One of the most important features which is a thermostat is also fitted to help save energy and manage the temperature. Once the required temperature is attained, the thermostat will switch the heating element off. When the temperatures drops below a specific temperature, the thermostat sensor picks this information up and reactivates the heating element to provide heat.
Furthermore, it has a flame failure device installed which basiclly helps make sure the pilot light stays on at all times. The only real downside to using a gas heater is that propane heaters produces a large amount of CO2 and therefore it is not advised to use while growing citrus plants or orchids but for most plants this is not a problem but just something to be aware of. The heater is a little smaller than you might expect being only 26cm wide by 34cm tall but it still provides enough heat for most domestic size greenhouses or tunnels and don't forget it comes with a 3-year warranty, its own hose and propane regulator. We would recommend this to those after a proper propane heater that offers years of service or don't have the option to use an electric heater.
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Hotbox Elite 2.8Kw Greenhouse Heater
Pros
The Hotbox Elite 2.8Kw Greenhouse Heater is an electric heater that will warm up greenhouses that are approximately 10ft x 12ft or up to 120²ft. If you just want to keep a greenhouse frost free rather than maintain aa certain temperature it is also suitable for greenhouses or poly tunnels up to 180²ft. Unlike most other heaters, this heater can be mounted on the ridge of a greenhouse from chains as pictured below or left freestanding on the floor or bench.
This hotbox model is very similar to our 'Best Pick' in terms of design and features and also provides an energy output of 2.8Kw which is more powerful compared to the other electric heaters in our list with the exception of the Biogreen model. It is also equipped with an accurate thermostat that controls the temperature but one standard design feature is that the actual temperature is marked on the dial. With most other models, you have to use a separate thermometer to monitor the temperature and adjust the thermostat on the heater accordingly.
If you want to run the fan independently which also helps to cool the greenhouse, it is possible to access the fan-only function, therefore, deactivating the thermostat function to basically turn it into just a fan which also helps circulate the air to help reduce condensation, but more importantly, help prevent air borne fungus thanks to better air circulation.
This high quality model would be recommended for those who want a slightly affordable model that is powerful enough to heat larger areas and is a great alternative to our 'Best Pick'.
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Biogreen WM-P5 Warmax Power5 Paraffin Heater
Pros
Designed to cover a maximum of 5m2 (53 square foot) and keep a greenhouse frost free, the Biogreen WM-P5 Warmax Power5 Paraffin Heater is an affordable heater that is good for your plants. All the carbon dioxide produced is taken up by the plants as it is essential for photosynthesis.
The heater features two chimneys and a 4-litre capacity tank which ensures longer run times but this is also effected by the wick size too. The traditionally designed heater is recommended for those who are looking for an affordable paraffin heater but one that is very well made as most are very cheap and simply don't last. Paraffin heaters are designed for keeping a greenhouse frost free when cold weather is forecasted and not to provide consistent heat so there uses are limited. These heaters have been used as long as we have been using greenhouses and are very reliable and this model us probably one of the best models currently available.
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Hylite Ecoheater 1000mm Slimline Greenhouse & Shed Heater
Pros
The Hylite Ecoheater Slimline Greenhouse Heater is another affordable option if you want to keep your greenhouse frost free, several degrees above freezing. Delivering radiant heat to your plants, this model is economical to run as it does not consume a lot of electricity which is what makes it such an attractive model to have and is perfect for smaller greenhouses. It is also good at preventing condensation and take the chill out of your greenhouse or even a potting shed if you have one. The 120W slimline eco heater is lightweight and takes up little space and therefore, storage will be simplified as it doesn't take up much space at all.
Fitted with a thermostat, this greenhouse heater can be adjusted to provide the right temperature. Once desired temperatures are acquired which you will have to check using a thermometer, the thermostat switches off to save energy and on again when the temperature drops below a certain temperature. It is also protected from the effects of moisture by the waterproof rating of IP44 that it has but remember this means it plash proof so avoid having it under water sprinklers etc.
To prove that this model is worth the effort, the Hylite brand offers a 100% money-back guarantee which is also great as you can test it first. We would recommend this model for those who have small greenhouses that require occasional heating and keeping the greenhouse frost free and is very efficient.
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Greenhouse Heater Buyers Guide
Are greenhouse heaters expensive to run? No, they are not expensive to run especially if you have insulated your greenhouse properly but it also depending if you're just trying to keep your greenhouse frost free or create a constantly warm greenhouse. Finding the best greenhouse heater should save you some money because the thermostats fitted nowadays shut off when optimal temperatures are reached. Such a thermostat saves you energy and keeps your utility bills at a controllable level. Let us look at other considerations that should be made.
Factors to consider when shopping for a greenhouse heater
Power source
Choosing a sustainable power source for your heater is not only for economic purposes but for convenience purposes. There are some kinds of heaters that are preferred over others when growing specific plants.
Electric greenhouse heaters
Electric heaters are pricey and they cover a wide range of power outputs. These electric models produce no emissions and therefore they are preferred for plants that need a strict regimen and are the only real choice for orchids and citrus. They come with energy-saving thermostats and waterproof abilities due to their electrical components. These electric heaters require low maintenance and feature fans that operate independently. Some models you can use them for both heating and cooling functions in the greenhouse. If you have a power source to plug an electric heater into then this is probably the best choice or most gardeners.
Paraffin heaters
Kerosene/Paraffin heaters produce heat and emissions that are good for some plants. They are not expensive to purchase but if you have access to cheap fuel they are economic to run too. Also convenient for areas without electricity, paraffin heaters are only really suitable for keeping a greenhouse frost free and they don't have thermostats which means you need to watch the weather forecast and if cold weather is forecasted, turn them on and off when the temperatures rises above freezing outside again. Perfect or providing occasion heater.
Gas greenhouse heaters
Gas heaters are popular because propane gas can be found at good prices. Gas heaters tend to produce a lot of moisture, therefore, the greenhouse needs adequate ventilation but they are perfect for providing heat where an electric heater is not an option and they usually have thermostats and can heater larger greenhouses.
Size
Compare the size of the greenhouse to the power output required to heat the whole area. If a heater claims to cover 120ft2 then it is perfect for greenhouses that fall under that size. If it claims to cover an area of 5m2 then you do not overwork it to cover a larger area. Read the manufactures product details to discover the coverage offered by the heater you intend to purchase. Its import to note that heaters sometimes give a coverage area for heating a greenhouse consistently and a larger area if you just need to keep your greenhouse frost free.
Mounted or freestanding
The height of the plants and the space available to place the heater. If you are tied down for space or you don’t want people bumping into the heater, a mounted heater works well. If you want to focus direct heat to certain plants then freestanding models work well. Whether you choose the mounted or the freestanding model ensure that it is located in an area where you can access the controls easily.
Safety features
Certified products from well-known institutions is a big help. You can be sure that the quality of the product is safe for both the use and the environment. A CE certified product like the Bio Green FY 25/GB 2.5KW Frosty Propane Greenhouse Heater is preferred over uncertified products. Safety features such as overheat protection, thermostats with highly responsive sensors and flame failure devices are required. Whether it is an electric or gas driven heater, the model has to have the corresponding safety features needed.
Warranty/money-back guarantee
Being satisfied with the product you spent money for feels great. That is why manufacturers go out of their way to assure you that the quality of the product can be trusted. Offers such as warranties and money-back guarantees go a long way in customer retention and satisfaction. If you happen to be unsatisfied with the product, you will at least be able to find a solution.
FAQs
Can I use my heater all year round?
If you have plants that require a strict controlled environment then your heater may be at work all year round. If you do not have high maintenance plants, you can switch off the heater when the weather gets warmer which is usually May onwards.
What plants grow best in winter?
Winter can be harsh but if you know what to plant and at what temperatures, the plants will flourish. Vegetables such as onions, carrots, shallots and garlic are known to survive the winter period well. You can also start seed and cutting earlier if you have a heated greenhouse and extend the grow time well into autumn for vegetables such as cucumbers.
Is insulation necessary?
If you do not want to rack up high electric/fuel costs then the answer is yes. Insulation helps in heat retention which saves your heater from working 24/7. We recommend insulating a greenhouse with bubble wrap and with most greenhouses you can actually buy specially made clips to fasten bubble wraps to the walls and ceiling.
Our Final Conclusion
Having answered the question of ‘are greenhouse heaters expensive to run?’ we hope that we have eradicated your fears of owning a greenhouse. There are so many choices in the market that we highly doubt it is hard to find a suitable one.
The best greenhouse heater is one that keeps the utility bills low while still providing enough energy to heat the greenhouse up and protect those tender plants. We hope that our buying guide has offered helpful insight as to what to expect. Do not get all serious, this will be a fun shopping expedition.
BEST PICK
Although an expensive greenhouse heater, the 2.8Kw heater has a thermostat and three heat settings that you can manipulate through the year to keep your greenhouse running and temperatures optimal. It is a strong heater that covers an area of 100ft2 which means it can cater to small or larger greenhouses. If you don't want the fuss of gas/propane heaters, this is the heater to get. It comes with a 3-year warranty backing up that the quality can be trusted and Biogreen have become a big name in the greenhouse heating category.
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