A garden room is a fantastic way to extend your main living space. From a home office or hobby spot to a fitness area, relaxation zone or guest accommodation, garden rooms are versatile and functional.
However, to make the most of your garden room throughout the year, choosing the right heating solution is essential. There are various options available too.
This post will talk you through the garden room heating options and identify the pros and cons so you can consider which option is best for you.
Best Options For Garden Room Heating
When it comes to garden room heating options, there are plenty to choose from – from innovative electric skirting board heaters to tried and tested wood burners.
Modern heating options tend to be electric as these are compatible with smart tech controls and up-to-date systems, but you can still use other energy sources if you prefer. Let’s take a look at the main options.
Electric Radiators
Electric radiators are one of the most efficient and reliable heating options for garden rooms. Unlike traditional radiators that rely solely on convection, electric radiators combine convection and radiation. This makes sure that both the air and the objects within the room are heated evenly. It also makes them perfect for keeping a steady temperature during colder months.
One of the major advantages of electric radiators is their energy efficiency, especially when equipped with programmable thermostats. Here at Lux, we like to install Wifi-controlled electric radiators. These allow you to set specific temperatures or timers to make sure your garden room is only heated when needed. This can result in significant energy savings.
Electric radiators are also versatile, with both wall-mounted and freestanding options available to suit different room layouts. Although the initial cost of electric radiators can be higher than portable heaters, their long-term energy efficiency makes them an excellent investment for those who use their garden room regularly.
Because of this efficiency combined with their smart look, Wifi enabled electric radiators are one of our go-to heating options.
Electric Convection Heaters
Electric convection heaters offer a more immediate heat source, circulating warm air throughout the room. They work by heating the air, which then rises and spreads throughout the space. This creates a warm environment very quickly. These heaters are ideal for those who only use their garden room occasionally and need a fast, temporary heating solution.
One of the primary advantages of electric convection heaters is their low upfront cost and portability. Most models are lightweight and can easily be moved between rooms. This gives users who need a temporary heating solution maximum flexibility.
However, while they provide quick heat, they tend to be less energy-efficient compared to electric radiators and come with a higher wattage, meaning they use more energy. If you use your garden room frequently or live in a colder climate, a convection heater may end up being less economical over time due to higher energy consumption.
Infrared Panels
Infrared panels are an increasingly popular choice for heating garden rooms. This is thanks to their energy efficiency and ability to deliver direct warmth.
Unlike convection heaters and electric radiators that help to warm the air, infrared panels heat objects and surfaces in the room. This method of heating is particularly beneficial for garden rooms if you don’t spend huge amounts of time in there. Infrared panels won’t heat up the air immediately, but will do over time as objects in the room absorb the IR heat and re-radiate it back out.
Infrared panels are flexible and be mounted on walls or ceilings or left freestanding. They’re also highly efficient, with low running costs compared to traditional electric heaters. The larger the room, the more powerful a heater is required. For example, if you’re space is over 15m2, you’ll want an 700w electric heater or above.
One of the main benefits of infrared heating is that it doesn’t dry out the air, providing a more comfortable environment, especially during winter months when dry air can become an issue.
Wood-Burning Stoves
For those seeking a rustic and cosy atmosphere, a wood-burning stove is an excellent choice. Wood-burning stoves can generate a significant amount of heat, making them ideal for garden rooms that are used as retreats or relaxation spaces. For a garden room that’s less than 30m2, you’ll be best with a small wood burner or multifuel stove that’s sized between 3kW and 5kW.
They don’t rely on electricity, which makes them a reliable off-grid option. However, installing a wood-burning stove requires careful planning. You’ll need to make sure the stove is installed with proper ventilation, including a chimney or flue. The installation process can be more expensive than other heating methods due to these additional requirements.
Wood-burning stoves aren’t the most eco-friendly option unless you use sustainably sourced local wood, but they can’t be beaten in terms of relaxation.
Underfloor Heating
Underfloor heating is a fantastic way to heat a garden room and feel that little bit of luxury.
By distributing heat evenly across the entire floor, underfloor heating creates a warm, comfortable environment with no cold spots as this heat eventually rises into the air. This method is particularly beneficial for rooms where space is limited, as it eliminates the need for visible radiators or heaters.
There are two types of underfloor heating systems: electric and water-based. Electric underfloor heating is easier to install but tends to have higher running costs, making it more suitable for garden rooms.
Water-based systems, on the other hand, are more energy-efficient and cost-effective in the long run but come with higher installation costs due to the need for plumbing and a boiler. For heating most garden rooms, this isn’t really an option.
The hidden nature of underfloor heating makes it an attractive option for those who want to maximise floor space. The initial costs may be quite high, but underfloor heating can add significant comfort and value to your garden room.
Electric Skirting Board Heaters
An innovative heating solution, and one that works really well for garden rooms, is electric skirting board heaters – and one popular option is ThermaSkirt by Discrete Heat.
Designed to look just like a traditional skirting board, these electric skirting boards are a highly efficient infrared radiant heating system that provides warmth while saving valuable wall and floor space. By combining the function of a heater with the aesthetics of skirting boards, it’s an ideal choice for those looking to maximize space and maintain a clean, uncluttered look in their garden room.
Electric skirting board heaters work best in smaller, well-insulated buildings like garden rooms, as it is specifically designed to meet low energy requirements. With a fast response time to heat demand and no need for a boiler, it offers a simple and low-maintenance heating solution. It’s also fully compatible with all major smart home controls such as Hive and Nest.
Air Conditioning Units
Air conditioning units are a versatile option for those looking to heat and cool their garden room all year-round. These units can switch between heating in the winter and cooling in the summer, making them a practical solution for maintaining a comfortable temperature in any season.
These systems are energy-efficient in well-insulated rooms, but can be on the more expensive side to install. However, if you’re looking for a simple system to provide both heating and cooling when necessary, this could be a good choice for you.
Solar Powered Heating
Solar heating is an excellent option for garden rooms, especially if you care about sustainability and energy efficiency.
By using solar panels to power electric heaters or underfloor heating systems, you can significantly reduce your carbon footprint and long-term energy costs – in the summer, it’s highly likely that you’ll be powering your garden room for free from solar energy.
The upfront cost of solar panels can be a little higher than some of the alternatives here, but the long-term savings make them a smart investment, particularly if you use your garden room frequently. Solar-powered heating systems work best in sunny conditions, but even in less sunny areas like the UK, they can still provide a significant reduction to your energy bills.
Oil-filled Radiators
Oil-filled radiators are often used for steady, long-lasting heat. These radiators heat up slowly but retain warmth well, making them a good option for garden rooms that are used for longer periods. However, they can be less energy-efficient compared to electric radiators or infrared panels.
For those seeking a more sustainable option, electric radiators or infrared panels may be a better choice due to their higher energy efficiency and lower environmental impact.
Do you need garden room insulation?
Before deciding on the best heating method for your garden room, the most important step is to make sure that your space is properly insulated.
Insulation is essential when it comes to retaining heat, reducing energy consumption and lowering heating bills. Insulation can also reduce garden room noise. Without adequate insulation, even the most efficient heating systems will struggle to maintain a comfortable temperature.
This means if you’re planning on using your garden room on a regular basis, such as for a garden office, you’ll need insulation for the roof, wall and floor – all standard with a Lux designed garden room.
You can read more on insulated vs non-insulated garden rooms and read up on the benefits of insulated garden offices.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Heating Method
When choosing the best heating method for your garden room, several factors need to be considered:
- Room size and insulation quality – Larger garden rooms, or those with poor insulation, will require more a powerful heating source to maintain a comfortable temperature. This isn’t the most efficient way to do things though. Proper insulation can help reduce heating costs and improve energy efficiency. You can read more on garden room sizes here.
- Intended use – If your garden room is used regularly, especially during colder months, investing in a more energy-efficient, long-term solution like electric radiators or underfloor heating is wise. For occasional use, convection heaters or portable options may be more suitable. Not sure what you’ll be using your room for yet? See our post on the most popular garden room ideas.
- Personal preferences – Aesthetic preferences may play a role too. Do you want something permanently attached the role, something you can took back into storage or a more discrete type of heating?
- Budget considerations – While some heating options come with a higher upfront cost, such as underfloor heating or solar panels, they may provide significant long-term savings. In contrast, cheaper options may have lower initial costs but result in higher running expenses.
Next steps with your garden room
There are many ways to heat a garden room, from quick and affordable electric heaters to eco-friendly solar-powered options. The best heating solution will depend on your room’s size, intended use and budget.
For personalised advice on the best heating solution for your garden room, contact us today for a free quote. Our team is here to help you create a comfortable, energy-efficient space that you can enjoy year-round. For inspiration check out our garden room gallery and our process of working.
FAQs
How much does it cost to heat a garden room?
The cost of heating a garden room depends on the method you choose and the room’s size and insulation. A 500W electric radiator will between 10-15p to run per hour. In the unlikely event you use this radiator for 5 hours every day and 7 days a week, that’s only £15 a month.
More advanced systems like underfloor heating or air conditioning units could vary depending on usage and climate. Wood costs for a stove depend on where you’re sourcing the wood from but are likely to be more than £15 a month in the winter.
Can you combine heating methods for your garden room?
Yes it is possible to combine heating methods in a garden room. This can offer extra flexibility. For example, you can pair underfloor heating with infrared panels. However, in many cases, combining methods may not be necessary, as garden rooms have low heating requirements when properly insulated.
What’s the most environmentally friendly way to heat a garden room?
Some of the most sustainable heating options for a garden room include solar heating systems and infrared panels. If your electric heater is being powered from renewable sources, this is much better for the environment. These options produce minimal carbon emissions compared to gas or oil-based heaters.
How can I make my garden room heating more energy-efficient?
To make your garden room heating more energy-efficient, choose systems with high energy ratings, as they indicate better performance with lower running costs. Opt for heating solutions like electric radiators or infrared panels, which offer efficient heating with minimal energy consumption. Additionally, using smart heating controls, such as programmable thermostats, can help you fine-tune when and how your garden room is heated to reduce unnecessary energy use.
Will heating a garden room lead to condensation or moisture problems?
Proper insulation and ventilation are key to preventing condensation. Combine insulation with an energy-efficient heating system and ensure adequate airflow to avoid moisture build-up.
What’s the best way to heat a garden room in winter?
Efficient heating options for winter include electric radiators, underfloor heating and infrared panels. Make sure your garden room is well-insulated to keep heating costs down and maintain a comfortable environment at the same time. Read more in are garden rooms warm in the winter?
Do I need planning permission to install heating in a garden room?
In most cases, you don’t need planning permission to install heating in a garden room. However, it’s important to ensure that all electrical installations are compliant with local building regulations. Find more info on our post on garden room planning permission.