Plinth heaters are highly efficient, space and energy-saving and are ideal for spacious kitchens. They can also eliminate the need for traditional radiators.

Read on for our expert reviews of the best plinth heaters available. Check the latest prices to ensure you get a great deal!

Our Top Picks

Image

Name

Dimplex Hydronic Plinth Heater

Dimplex Hydronic Plinth Heater

The Dimplex Hydronic Plinth Heaters' heating performance matches the performance of large-sized radiators. With a simple user interface, compact size, cooling options and a variety of finishes available to match your decor, it's one of the best. Read more

Myson Hydronic Fan Plinth Heater

Myson Hydronic Fan Plinth Heater

The Myson Hydronic Fan Plinth Heater comes with some of the latest heating techniques that keep your kitchen warm even in the chilliest of conditions. Read more

Winterwarm Plinth Heater

Winterwarm Plinth Heater

If you are searching for a budget heater that doesn’t cost hundreds, the Winterwarm Plinth Heater is a great choice. Read more

Smiths Hydronic Plinth Heater

Smiths Hydronic Plinth Heater

The compact size and quick heating and cooling facility makes this heater one of the best for domestic kitchens. Read more

Diamond Kitchen Plinth Heater

Diamond Kitchen Plinth Heater

The Diamond Kitchen Plinth Heater is one of the best heating solutions available for your kitchen. The automatic functioning takes the heater to another level. Read more

Bidex Plinth Heater

Bidex Plinth Heater

Don’t want to spend a fortune on a kitchen heater? The Bidex Plinth Heater as it is small, affordable, yet powerful enough to warm up a room as big as 40m square. Read more

CDA APH01SS Plinth Heater

CDA APH01SS Plinth Heater

The CDA APH01SS Plinth Heater has been designed and optimised to fit in the plinth while still being powerful and effective. Read more

A365 UPH201SS Plinth Heater

A365 UPH201SS Plinth Heater

Are you searching for a small and compact heater for your kitchen? The A365 UPH201SS Plinth Heater fits the description perfectly. Read more

Thermix KPH 1500 Classic Plinth Heater

Thermix KPH 1500 Classic Plinth Heater

You would be delighted after buying the Thermix KPH 1500 Classic Plinth Heater. It is a cost-effective, energy-efficient heater suitable for domestic kitchens. Read more

Eterna Plinth Heater

Eterna Plinth Heater

Eterna have optimised this model to be efficient that many other plinth heaters on the market. Read more

10 Best Plinth Heaters

1. Dimplex Hydronic Plinth Heater

Dimplex Hydronic Plinth Heater

The Dimplex Hydronic Plinth Heater is designed for ‘wet’ heating systems. As such, this plinth heater uses hot water from the central heating system to heat indoor spaces. You can use this plinth heater to complement your radiator, or you can use it in place of a radiator.

Dimplex designed the heating unit and built it to fit small discrete spaces such as kitchen plinth, under shop counters, stair raisers, and receptionist desks.

Features

Simple User-Interface

This plinth heater has an easy to use control system. Aside from the On/ Off switch user-interface consists of one pole summer/ winter switch to set cooling or heating. There is also a Boost/ Low switch to set the fan.

Compact Size

This BUH plinth heater can heat rooms much faster despite its small size. Its heating performance matches the performance of large-sized radiators.

A Variety Of Finishes

You can opt to get your Dimplex Hydronic Plinth Heater in stainless steel colour, brown colour, or white colour to match your decor.

Fan-Only Cooling

Cooling air circulation is only supplied by the fan.

It comes with an automatic low-temperature cut-out thermostat set at 38ºC.

Key Specs

  • Fan Capability: Under Normal settings – 4372 Btu/h, 1280 Watts. Under Boost setting – 6830 Btu/h, 2000 Watts
  • A 2kW maximum output
  • Its water capacity – 20:0.2
  • 2-metres, 3-core wire
  • Flexible hose and isolating valves that connect to the heater to the in-flow and return pipes of central heating systems.

Pros:

  • It has a compact size
  • This plinth heater is energy efficient – it uses hot water from central heating for heating
  • Its user interface is simple to use

Cons:

  • It cannot work without a central heating system
  • Installing the Dimples Hydronic Plinth Heater can be a daunting task

2. Myson Hydronic Fan Plinth Heater

Myson Hydronic Fan Plinth Heater

Do you wish to keep your kitchen warm without using conventional radiators that take too much space? You got it! The Myson Hydronic Fan Plinth Heater is just the heater you need. It comes with some of the latest heating techniques that keep your kitchen warm even in the chilliest of conditions. Most importantly, it is a space-saving heater that gives you opportunities to include more cabinets in the kitchen. Also, it fits under any plinth space so that you don’t have to allot extra room to accommodate the heater.

Features

Dual Fan Speed

It has dual fan speed function that works in normal and boost mode depending on the temperature. You can change the fan speed manually using the switch on the front panel.

In-built Thermostat

The Myson Hydronic Fan Plinth Heater prevents overheating using a low-limit in-built thermostat. It automatically activates the boost fan whenever the water temperature in your central heating system reaches 43 degrees Celsius.

Energy-efficient

Since this is a fan-powered heater and not an electric one, it saves a lot of energy. The low power consumption means you don’t have to pay hundreds on electric bills every month.

Overall, the Myson Hydronic Fan Plinth Heater is not only perfect to fit in your kitchen but also your budget. So, don’t think twice before bringing this heater home.

Suitable for Spacious Kitchens

The Myson Hydronic Fan Plinth Heater fits under plinths as high as 101 mm. It keeps even the most spacious kitchens warm.

Pros:

  • It comes with a 2-year warranty.
  • It includes several essential accessories like wall switches and a thermostat.
  • The dual fan speed is efficient enough to work in tandem with your central heating system.

Cons:

  • You need a separate electrical connection to operate the fan in the heater.

3. Winterwarm Plinth Heater

Winterwarm Plinth Heater

Does your kitchen get too cold during winter, making it difficult to cook? Buy the Winterwarm Plinth Heater and don’t worry about the cold anymore. This small and compact heater fits under kitchen cabinets, allowing more space to walk around. You don’t have to move any furniture or appliance in the kitchen as it fits perfectly in the plinth space. With a steel and plastic construction, this heater offers enough warmth to keep your kitchen nice and comfortable during chilly winters.

Features

Easy Installation

It comes with a 3-wire installation system, helping you to kickstart the heater right after you bring it home. Simply connect the wires according to the instruction manual and the heater is good to go.

Programmable Timer

The Winterwarm Plinth Heater provides a seven-day programmable timer. You can program the heat settings according to when and for how long you remain at home. This eliminates the need to fiddle with the heater every time you need to switch it on or regulate the temperature.

Variable heat settings

The different heat settings allow you to change its mode depending on the outside temperature. Instead of switching the heat up or down, you only need to press one of the preset heat settings to control the temperature.

If you are searching for a budget heater that doesn’t cost hundreds, the Winterwarm Plinth Heater should be your choice. It fits perfectly in any kitchen and keeps it warm for a long time.

Pros:

  • It has overheating protection that keeps the efficiency of the heater under control.
  • It also has overload protection that switches the heater off when there is an overload cut-out.
  • The fully programmable timer allows you to set temperatures for different days.

Cons:

  • It does not have a power indicator.
  • There are no fixings supplied in the box. You need to buy them separately.

4. Smiths Hydronic Plinth Heater

Smiths Hydronic Plinth Heater

Tired of the radiators using too much space in your kitchen? Bring home the all-new Smiths Hydronic Plinth Heater and save a lot of leg space. It tucks into a kitchen plinth easily, creating more space for cupboards and appliances. This highly efficient, space and energy-saving fan convector is ideal for spacious kitchens and eliminates the need for traditional radiators.

Features

Space and Money-saver

The Smiths Hydronic Plinth Heater is more affordable than conventional underfloor heating systems. They not only make extra room for more workspace and additional kitchen storage but also help you save plenty on energy bills. It is an energy-efficient heater suitable in a wide range of outputs for heating various kitchens of different sizes.

Two Heat Output

This gem of a heater has two heat outputs along with a fan-only option. It allows instant heating or cooling of the kitchen. The air circulation is fast enough due to the high-speed fan.

Suits Your Kitchen Style

It has a contemporary design, and there are different colors available for the grille. Choose one that suits the interior decoration of the kitchen.

Discreet Heating

The fan doesn’t make too much noise. You won’t understand the heater operating when you are in the kitchen. It warms up the kitchen without you knowing.

So, free up some space in your kitchen by eliminating the radiators, and instead, use the Smiths Hydronic Plinth Heater. The compact size and quick heating and cooling facility makes it the best heater for domestic kitchens.

Pros:

  • The fascia grille is made of stainless steel, making it highly durable.
  • It comes with a wireless temperature control feature.
  • The single rocker switch makes it easier to operate the heater.
  • You get a five-year labour and parts warranty.

Cons:

  • It is suitable only for dual-pipe central heating systems.

5. Diamond Kitchen Plinth Heater

Diamond Kitchen Plinth Heater

The Diamond Kitchen Plinth Heater is one of the best heating solutions available for your kitchen. Don’t go by its size because it produces enough heat to warm up your kitchen. Simply connect it to your central heating system and watch how comfortable the kitchen becomes. Moreover, you don’t have to free wall spaces to install this heater. Keep it anywhere under a kitchen cupboard to save space. The two-speed fan doesn’t make too much noise while circulating heat in the kitchen, keeping you warm and comfortable.

The Diamond Kitchen Plinth Heater is really worth the hype. If you are searching for a budget heater for your kitchen, it doesn’t get any better than this. The automatic functioning takes the heater to another level altogether.

Features

No Overheating

Since this is a fan heater, it doesn’t overheat like electric heaters. Dust and dirt often heat up electric heaters, but not this one. Moreover, the fan convector works with your central heating system. It switches on and off automatically according to how its big brother works. This saves a lot of energy in the long run.

Automatic Controls

The temperature switch inside the heater works automatically. When the hot water circulates in the central heating system, it immediately switches the integral fan, thus firing up the heater. The moment you shut down the central heating unit, the fan will also switch off. However, you can increase the heat in the room manually.

Pros:

  • It comes with a 2-year warranty.
  • You also get a grille screw fitting kit inside the box.
  • There is also a coloured fascia grille, making the unit look aesthetically pleasing.
  • The size is compact enough to fit under a cupboard.

Cons:

  • It only has a 15mm water connection compression. This could be slightly better.

6. Bidex Plinth Heater

Bidex Plinth Heater

Don’t want to spend a fortune on a kitchen heater? The Bidex Plinth Heater as it is small, affordable, yet powerful enough to warm up a room as big as 40m square. You don’t have to use up spaces on the wall to install this heater. Keep it under a cupboard, and it works just fine. You can connect the unit to your central heating system in the house and enjoy a warm and comfortable cooking experience in the kitchen. It has a 2-speed fan that blows the heat through the heat exchanger.

Features

Runs off the central heating system

There is also a fan convector inside the heater. It works in tandem alongside the central heating system. So, whenever the latter switches on and off, the fan convector follows its master. Since it doesn’t run along with the central heating unit, it consumes less energy.

Easy installation

All you need to do is connect the heater with your central heating system. It will switch itself on and off without having to operate manually. The temperature switch inside the heater senses the hot water inside the central heating unit. The fan automatically starts when this happens. You don’t need to switch it on or off manually.

There is no doubt that the Bidex Plinth Heater is worth every penny. It satisfies the statement that all good things come in small packages.

Pros:

  • You can regulate the temperature manually by switching the boost mode in the fan switch.
  • It has a maximum working pressure of 10bar.
  • The unit comes with two isolating valves along with 700mm long 15mm flexible hoses.
  • You get a 2-year warranty.

Cons:

  • Runs on 220 – 240 V electric supply. Should have been slightly lower considering the size.

7. CDA APH01SS Plinth Heater

CDA APH01SS Plinth Heater

Although it might not seem like it, heating small spaces discretely and independently in your home can be a challenge. You need a heater that is not only effective but also compact enough to occupy small areas. Importantly, you need a heater that is reliable and up to the task.

The CDA APH01SS Plinth Heater has been designed and optimised to fit in the plinth while still being powerful and effective. The form-factor of this heater allows you to conceal it under kitchen units, in stairwells, under your furniture, and other small inconspicuous spaces.

Features

3 Heating Settings

It comes with 3 heating setting; cold setting, which is a fan only setting, the warm setting, and the hot setting.

2kW Heating Capability

The CDA APH01SS Plinth Heater is a 2kW heater. As such, it is powerful enough to instantly heat and warm a kitchen no matter the time of year by supplying hot air.

Stainless Steel Colour

The exterior surface of the heater has been given a coat of stainless steel colour. This allows the heater to blend well with the surrounding décor and finishing.

Automatic Safety Cut Out

For improved safety, the CDA APH01SS Plinth Heater has an automatic safety cut out feature. This feature prevents overheating, thereby negating the risks of accidents and fires hazards.

Pros:

  • The three different levels of heating improve user experience
  • It is cost-efficient
  • Perfectly sized to fit into small spaces such as the plinth under cabinets
  • Easy to install
  • It is effective in heating small rooms

Cons:

  • It can be noisy owing to the fan, especially if not fitted well
  • Getting the appliance registered for warranty can be a hassle

8. A365 UPH201SS Plinth Heater

A365 UPH201SS Plinth Heater

Are you searching for a small and compact heater for your kitchen? The A365 UPH201SS Plinth Heater fits the description perfectly. It is so small that you can keep it under a kitchen cupboard. This also saves enough space that radiators would otherwise take up. The heater is efficient enough to keep a significantly spacious kitchen warm. It comes in different heat setting modes that allow you to use the heater as a cooling option also.

Features

3 Heat Settings

The A365 UPH201SS Plinth Heater has warm, cold, and fan-only mode. You can keep the kitchen warm during winters, cold during summers, and use the fan when you want to maintain an average temperature.

Space-saver

The compact size of this heater makes it suitable for any kitchen. Even if your kitchen is small, you don’t need to worry about where to keep this heater. Tuck it under any cabinet or cupboard and enjoy its warmth.

Long-lasting

It has a stainless steel body, making it highly durable. Most kitchen heaters in this range provide plastic and steel body, but this one doesn’t compromise on the build quality.

Instant Heat

The brushed stainless steel grills of this heater emit heat when you need it the most. You don’t have to wait for an hour for the heater to fire up.

The A365 UPH201SS Plinth Heater is definitely worth it if you are not ready to shell out hundreds of pounds for a kitchen heater.

Pros:

  • It has three heating modes: high, medium, and fan-only. You can manually change the heat setting depending on the temperature in the kitchen.
  • It doesn’t make too much noise compared to some of its competitors.
  • The box comes with two heat switches and a power indicator.

Cons:

  • The fascia quality is not up to the mark.

9. Thermix KPH 1500 Classic Plinth Heater

Thermix KPH 1500 Classic Plinth Heater

The Thermix KPH 1500 Classic Plinth Heater fits in a kitchen plinth easily. Forget the days when people used radiators to keep their kitchen warm. This heater is a definite space-saver that connects to your central heating system directly.

It fires up whenever the central heating unit switches on or off. The heater comes with an in-built thermostat that prevents the fan from blowing cold air. In the meanwhile, when the central heating system’s water temperature reaches above 38 degrees Celsius, the thermostat automatically switches off.

Features

No Manual Operation

Since the unit works along with the central heating system of the house, you don’t need to operate it manually. However, if you want more heat, you can switch from the fan to the boost mode. The heater will quickly emit more hot air into the kitchen to make it warmer.

Easy Installation

The only thing you need to do is identify the cables that connect to the central heating system. Connect them accordingly, and the heater is good to go.

Energy-efficient

This is one of the budget heaters that help to save a lot on energy bills. One factor that contributes to its energy efficiency is its direct relation with the central heating system. If it runs at least 5 hours a day, it can save approximately 10 pence every week.

You will be delighted after buying the Thermix KPH 1500 Classic Plinth Heater. It is a cost-effective, energy-efficient heater suitable for domestic kitchens.

Pros:

  • The Thermix KPH 1500 Classic Plinth Heater comes with a 2-year warranty on both service and parts.
  • It has a 15mm pipe connection size that is incredible, considering the price of the heater.
  • It has a steel body that makes it highly durable.

Cons:

  • The maximum operating pressure is 6bar. Some of its competitors have more operating pressure.

10. Eterna Plinth Heater

Eterna Plinth Heater

Heating small spaces such as the kitchen necessitate the use of compact heaters that are easy to install and operate. The Eterna PFH2400 Plinth Heater is one such heater with ample power to comfortably warm your kitchen while operating safely. Eterna have optimised this model to be efficient that many other plinth heaters on the market.

Features

3 Heat Setting

To increase the heat control that users have, the Eterna Plinth Heater PFH2400 comes with 3 heat settings. The lowest setting is the 800W setting with fan output only. The next level is the 1600W with half fan output, and the highest heat output level is the 2400W with full fan output.

Enhanced User-Interface

The switches on the Eterna PFH2400 are illuminated to make it easy for users to find the right switches, even when in dark corners.

Thermal Cut Out And Thermostatically Controlled

To improve the energy efficiency of the heater, it has a thermostat that controls the switches automatically. When the set temperature is attained, the heater will switch off to reduce energy consumption.

Three Colour Fascia

To ensure that this plinth heater blends well with the existing décor, Eterna includes three fascia options. The colours include white, brown, and stainless steel.

Rubber Feet

The Eterna Plinth Heater has rubber feet dampen noise from the heater. This feature comes in handy in making this room heater more pleasant to use

Pros:

  • This plinth heater is effective at heating small spaces.
  • Compact in size.
  • It is easy to install.
  • The three panels with different colours make it easy to match with the overall decor.
  • It has a variety of heat setting, making it easy to precisely control temperature.

Cons:

  • It can be loud, especially if installed improperly.

Plinth Heater Buying Guide

Traditional radiators are commonplace in residential properties but what if there’s no space for one? What can a property owner do in a situation like this?

Instead of relying on a radiator, it’s time to focus on using a plinth radiator.

Here’s a detailed guide on plinth heaters, how they work, and what’s required to find a good fit.

Key Takeaways

  • Plinth heaters are a space-saving alternative to traditional radiators and are commonly placed in kitchen cabinets, providing efficient heat while remaining discreet and safe for residential and commercial properties.
  • Plinth heaters come in various types, including hydronic (hot water), all-electric, and dual fuel options, each with its own method of generating heat.
  • When choosing a plinth heater, consider its size, location, features, and integration with the existing heating system, and ensure proper installation for optimal performance and safety in various rooms like the kitchen, bathroom, or bedroom.

What Is a Plinth Heater?

In general, a plinth heater is regarded as a replacement option for traditional radiators. The most common location for these units is somewhere in the cabinets in the kitchen. The premise of this unit is to provide enough heat without taking up too much space. For most situations, the plinth heater is easy to put away without it getting stuck or becoming too noticeable. Plinth heaters tend to come in various types ranging from electric models to hydronic options based on what the property needs.

When put to use, these heaters can generate a good amount of heat without using too much energy. This is ideal for smaller properties while remaining safe for anyone wandering near the kitchen cabinets (i.e. pets). These are safe solutions ideal for residential properties and can also be seen in commercial locations too.

What Do Plinth Heaters Look Like?

A traditional plinth heater is going to have a grilled setup, which is going to come in a variety of colours. This is done to make it easier on property owners to put the plinth heater away as discreetly as possible. All that’s required to get this plinth heater running is a 3 amp fuse. This makes it efficient, affordable, and easy to hide all at the same time.

What Are the Different Types of Plinth Heaters?

There are different types of plinth heaters available on the open market and it’s time to look at what each one has to offer.

Hydronic (Hot Water)

This is the first type of model most people come across and it refers to a unit generating heat via a heat exchanger. This is connected through the central heating system in a bid to optimising how well the heat is produced. The heater can connect with the heating pipes and blow hair out, which warms the room it is in.

All Electric

The electric plinth heater is designed to generate warm air using nothing more than electricity. It can use this energy in a bid to push air throughout the room with the power of an electric fan.

Duel Fuel

The last type of plinth heater is a combo option, which is a mix of both electric and hydronic elements. What this means is the plinth heater works by using both electric energy and central heating to generate enough heat to spread throughout the room.

How Do You Choose the Right Size Plinth Heater?

When it is time to buy a brand-new plinth heater for your property, it’s best to understand how it’s going to be used. You want to find one that looks the part and is going to fit where it’s being placed. This means if you are putting it under the kitchen sink, it’s best to measure how much space is available to do so. Otherwise, you are going to be left without enough space and that’s a massive waste of time and resources.

It’s also important to think about different features because they play a role in sizing.

For example, a plug-in option is going to need enough space to connect to the main electrical system. Without this space, it is not going to work and that will lead to inefficiencies. Some units are easy to integrate into the current heating system. It’s important to look into this option if that’s the route you wish to take.

Another feature has to do with the amount of power that’s generated at any given point. Some units can push up to 2.4 kW in energy to heat the room.

How Do You Install a Plinth Heater?

Installing the heater is not going to take a long time to figure out as long as there’s enough space to work with. You want to find a 3A spur, which is going to be connected to the heater. The plinth heater is designed to work as a fixed unit and will require a specific electrical connection. This means it’s time to find a double pole 3A spur. Remember, to place the heater in an efficient place for optimal heat production.

The average plinth heater is not going to integrate with your central heating pipes. This has to be kept in mind while investing if the idea is to integrate as soon as the unit comes in.

To move forward with the installation, make sure to connect the heater flow and pipes. This is important with a hydronic/dual system. Also, take the opportunity to set up the isolation valve for your unit.

When it comes to making final adjustments, you should assess the surface and make sure it’s flat. The plinth heater shouldn’t be put on an uneven surface as this will impact performance and lead to potential safety risks.

Where Can a Plinth Heater Be Used?

The plinth heater can be used in a variety of situations whether it’s in the kitchen, bathroom or a bedroom. It’s all about finding enough space to put it in.

Our Expertise in Heating and Cooling Products

At Heat Pump Source, we understand the essential role that plinth heaters play in the efficiency and comfort of your home. Our expert team has conducted extensive hands-on testing and research. We aim to provide transparent, evidence-based insights stemming from our industry expertise and years of experience.

Why Trust Our Reviews?

  • Industry Expertise: Our reviews are grounded in the deep industry knowledge of providing leading HVAC solutions. We leverage this expertise to evaluate plinth heaters, not just on their features, but on how they integrate with your home to deliver optimal performance.
  • Hands-On Testing: We don’t just rely on specifications; we put each plinth heater through rigorous hands-on testing. This allows us to provide insights into each device’s performance, from energy savings to ease of use, ensuring you understand how each heater measures up in real-world conditions.
  • Transparency: Our reviews are conducted with a transparent and unbiased methodology. We honestly evaluate the features and functionality of each recommendation. Our goal is to offer you all the essential information without any external influence so that you can choose the best heating solution for your home.
  • Experience: Our reviews are more than just comparisons; they’re narratives of experience. We explain how each plinth heater has evolved from previous models, the design choices made by manufacturers, and how these factors affect your daily use.

Our reviews are crafted to guide you through selecting the best plinth heaters for 2024. We provide you with all the necessary information, comparisons, and expert opinions to make an informed decision. With our commitment to quality and your unique needs, we’re here to ensure that your home remains a haven of comfort and efficiency.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoyed our article on the best plinth heaters. There are so many things to consider when looking for a plinth heater for your home. With our guide, hopefully you will have an easier time finding the perfect plinth heater for your needs!

About the Author

At Heat Pump Source, our articles are the product of a collaborative effort among a team of highly skilled HVAC experts. Our dedicated professionals, hailing from diverse backgrounds in heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration, contribute their extensive knowledge and experience to every piece of content. This multidisciplinary approach ensures comprehensive coverage. Our commitment is to deliver authoritative, reliable, and tailored advice to meet the unique needs of every household and business across the UK.