When winter sets in and the chill creeps into your workshop, warehouse, or garage, finding the right heating solution becomes a top priority. At Fanmaster, one of the most common questions we hear is:
“What’s the difference between a space heater and a radiant heater?”
It’s a great question, and choosing the right type of heater can make all the difference in energy efficiency, comfort, and safety.
In this blog, we’ll break down how each heater works, where they shine, and which one is best for your environment.
What Is a Space Heater?
Space heaters are designed to warm the air in smaller, enclosed areas. They act like mini climate-control units for individual spaces.
Key Features:
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Heats air in a confined space
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Electric-powered (plugs into a standard wall socket)
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Portable and easy to move
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Ideal for areas up to 10–15m²
Best Use Case:
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Offices, site sheds, under desks
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Enclosed workshops or rooms
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Quick, clean, and convenient heating
What Is a Radiant Heater?
Radiant heaters work differently. Rather than heating the air, they emit infrared radiation that directly warms people and objects — similar to standing in the sun.
Key Features:
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Heats objects and people, not the air
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Available in electric, gas, or diesel options
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Perfect for open or semi-enclosed areas
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Provides instant, targeted warmth
Best Use Case:
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Warehouses, garages, large sheds
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Outdoor or partially ventilated environments
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Situations where you need fast, direct heat
Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | Space Heaters | Radiant Heaters |
|---|---|---|
| Heating Method | Warms air | Warms objects/people |
| Best For | Small, enclosed spaces | Large, open/drafty spaces |
| Typical Power Source | Electric | Electric, Gas, Diesel |
| Setup Requirements | Plug and play | May require ventilation |
| Speed of Warmth | Slower to heat room | Instant, direct warmth |
When to Use Each One
Still unsure which one is right for you? Here’s a quick guide:
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🧊 Cold under your desk in a site office? → Go for a space heater
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🏭 Concrete floors in a drafty warehouse? → Choose a radiant heater
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⚡ Need quick, focused heat without warming the entire space? → Radiant is the winner
Final Thoughts
Both types of heaters serve specific purposes, and choosing the right one comes down to your space, usage, and safety requirements.
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Space heaters = Air heating, enclosed areas, smaller rooms
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Radiant heaters = Direct heating, large open areas, instant warmth
Need help deciding what’s right for your space? We’re here to help.
📞 Call us on 1300 900 345 or
🌐 Visit www.fanmaster.com.au to explore our full range of industrial and commercial heaters