Oil Filled Radiators

About Oil Filled Radiators

Oil filled radiators provide efficient, portable heating for workshops, offices, showrooms and domestic spaces. Unlike fan heaters that circulate warm air, these radiators use sealed oil-filled fins that retain heat and radiate warmth steadily over time. Powered by standard 240v mains electricity, they offer a safe and effective heating solution where permanent heating systems are impractical or insufficient. The oil acts as a heat reservoir, maintaining comfortable temperatures long after the heating element cycles off, making them highly energy-efficient for extended use.

Built to professional standards, oil filled radiators typically feature thermostatic controls that automatically maintain preset temperatures, preventing energy waste and overheating. Many models include safety tip-over switches that cut power if the unit is knocked over, making them suitable for busy workshop environments. The castored design allows easy repositioning to direct heat exactly where needed, whether warming up a cold garage workshop in winter or providing supplementary heat in a draughty site office.

Tooled-Up.com stocks oil filled radiators from Sealey, a trusted manufacturer known for reliable heating solutions. Available in various outputs from compact 800W mini radiators through to powerful 2500W models, these heaters suit different space sizes and heating requirements. Premium models incorporate programmable timers and digital controls, allowing tradespeople to schedule heating for early morning starts without wasting electricity overnight.

Jargon Buster

• Wattage (W): The power rating indicating heat output. Higher wattage produces more heat – 800W suits small rooms up to 10m², whilst 2500W models heat larger workshops up to 25m².
• Thermostatic Control: An automatic temperature regulator that switches the heating element on and off to maintain your chosen temperature, improving efficiency and comfort.
• Thermal Mass: The oil's capacity to absorb and retain heat. This property allows oil filled radiators to continue radiating warmth even after the element stops drawing power, providing consistent background heat.
• Tip-Over Switch: A safety cut-out mechanism that immediately disconnects power if the radiator is knocked over, preventing fire hazards in busy work environments.
• Fin Design: The vertical panels that contain the heated oil. More fins or specially designed profiles increase the surface area, transferring heat more effectively into the surrounding air.
• Heat Retention: How long the radiator continues emitting warmth after switching off. Oil filled models excel here, maintaining comfortable temperatures longer than fan heaters or convectors.

Who Uses Oil Filled Radiators?

• Motor mechanics and vehicle technicians heating garage workshops during winter diagnostics and repairs
• Joiners and carpenters warming workshop spaces for comfortable woodworking and to prevent timber warping
• Plasterers and decorators maintaining optimal temperatures for material curing on site work
• Facilities managers providing supplementary heating in offices, warehouses and commercial premises
• Construction site managers heating site cabins and temporary offices throughout cold weather
• Agricultural workers warming farm workshops, stables and equipment storage areas
• DIY enthusiasts creating comfortable conditions in home workshops and garden sheds
• Event organisers providing temporary heating for marquees, exhibitions and outdoor venues
• Property maintenance contractors heating unoccupied properties during renovation work

How to Choose the Right Oil Filled Radiators

Calculate your heating requirements: Match wattage to room size. As a general rule, allow 100W per square metre. A 2000W radiator suits a 20m² workshop, whilst compact 800W models work perfectly for small offices or storage areas. Poorly insulated spaces like garages may require higher output.

Consider thermostatic control: Adjustable thermostats automatically maintain comfortable temperatures without constant manual adjustment. This feature proves invaluable in workshops where you're focused on tasks rather than climate control, and significantly reduces running costs by preventing overheating.

Evaluate timer functionality: Models with programmable timers allow you to schedule heating for specific hours. Set your radiator to warm the workshop before your 7am start, or switch off automatically at day's end. The selection at Tooled-Up includes radiators with 24-hour programmable timers for maximum convenience.

Assess portability needs: All oil filled radiators are mobile, but check weight and castor quality if you'll frequently move the unit. Heavier models with more oil capacity retain heat longer but require more effort to reposition around larger workshops.

Safety features matter: Look for tip-over switches, overheat protection and thermal cut-outs, especially for unattended operation. Workshop environments with trailing cables and mobile equipment benefit from these protective features that prevent accidents.

Power supply compatibility: Verify the unit operates on standard 240v 13A domestic supply. Most oil filled radiators draw between 3-10 amps, well within standard socket capacity, but avoid overloading extension leads when running multiple heaters.

Popular Accessories

• Extension leads and cable reels: Heavy-duty 240v extensions for positioning radiators away from fixed sockets in large workshops
• Plug-in timers: Mechanical or digital timers for controlling radiators without built-in timer functions
• RCD adapters: Additional electrical safety protection for portable heating equipment
• Cable management systems: Preventing trip hazards from trailing power cables in busy work areas
• Thermometers and hygrometers: Monitoring workshop temperature and humidity levels for optimal working conditions
• Floor protectors: Heat-resistant mats preventing castor marks on workshop flooring

Safety Information

Position oil filled radiators on stable, level surfaces away from flammable materials, ensuring clearance of at least 500mm around all sides for proper air circulation. Never cover radiators or drape materials over fins, as this prevents heat dissipation and may trigger overheat protection systems or create fire risks.

Always plug radiators directly into wall sockets or approved heavy-duty extension leads rated for heating appliances. Avoid daisy-chaining multiple heaters through single extensions, as this may overload circuits. Inspect power cables regularly for damage, particularly where cables are exposed to workshop traffic or equipment movement.

Do not use oil filled radiators in wet environments or where water splashing may occur. Whilst suitable for workshops, these electrical appliances require dry conditions. Position away from areas where liquids are handled or stored. Ensure tip-over switches remain functional by testing periodically – the radiator should immediately cut power when tilted beyond safe operating angles.

Allow radiators to cool completely before moving or storing, as oil retains heat for considerable periods after switching off. Never attempt to service or open sealed oil chambers – these units are permanently sealed and should be professionally recycled at end of life through appropriate WEEE recycling facilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to run an oil filled radiator?

Running costs depend on wattage and electricity tariffs. A 2000W radiator running continuously costs approximately £7-8 per 24 hours at current UK electricity prices (around 34p/kWh). However, thermostatic control means the element cycles on and off, typically halving actual consumption. A well-insulated workshop might see 4-5 hours actual heating time per 10-hour workday.

Are oil filled radiators more efficient than fan heaters?

Yes, for sustained heating. Whilst both convert electricity to heat at similar efficiency, oil filled radiators retain warmth longer, continuing to heat spaces after the element stops drawing power. They provide gentler, more consistent temperatures without the noise and dust circulation associated with fan heaters, making them preferable for all-day workshop use.

Do oil filled radiators need refilling or maintenance?

No. These units are permanently sealed systems requiring no oil changes or refilling. The diathermic oil never depletes – it simply circulates within the sealed fins. Maintenance is limited to keeping exterior surfaces dust-free and checking cables for damage. This makes them ideal low-maintenance heating solutions for busy workshops.

Can I leave an oil filled radiator on overnight or unattended?

Models with proper safety features (thermostats, tip-over switches, overheat protection) can operate unattended, making them suitable for frost protection in unoccupied premises. However, always follow manufacturer guidance and ensure adequate ventilation. Many tradespeople use timer functions to switch radiators off during non-working hours, reducing costs whilst maintaining comfortable morning temperatures.

What size radiator do I need for my workshop?

Allow approximately 100W per square metre as a starting point. A standard single garage (15-20m²) typically requires 1500-2000W, whilst larger double garages or workshop spaces (25-30m²) benefit from 2500W models. Poorly insulated spaces, frequent door opening or high ceilings may require additional capacity. Consider starting with a mid-range model and supplementing if necessary.