On Mon, 28 Nov 2011 09:29:20 -0800 (PST), DerbyDad03
wrote:




P.S. I'm back to struggling with whether or not I should use a
constantly running oil-filled heater (set on low) in my small workshop
or should I run a small electric heater with a fan only during those
times when I'm in the shop, usually a couple of nights a week and a
few more hours on weekends.

I have both, so the initial cost is not a factor.

How big of a shop and how low of an outside temperature?

The typical electric heater will put out 1500 watts or 5000 BTU. If
the outside temperature is below 40, it is not worth even plugging in.
In my garage/shop I used a 30,000 BTU unit and it was not enough below
20F so I bought a 60,000 BTU unit.

As for the article you refer to, it is poorly written rubbish. I have
no idea what they are talking about oil filled units "conserving more
heat". I'd like to see some real numbers on output.

•An electrical heater loses 55% of energy to produce heat. Ceramic
heaters conserve 85% of the energy. Oil filled radiant heaters have a
larger surface area and can provide heat for an extended period of
time.
•An electrical heater comes with high running costs. Ceramic and oil
filled radiant heaters have lower running costs as they conserve more
heat.