Convector Heaters

Convector heaters are electric heaters that warm air over an element and let it circulate naturally around a room, giving gentle, even background heat. We currently stock two models: the Illumina 400W Frost Watcher with built-in thermostat and the Sunbeam 2000W Convector Heater with timer.

They suit garages, workshops, outbuildings, pump houses and spare rooms. With a trade account you pay trade prices, and orders received by 5pm Monday to Friday are delivered next working day across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

FW400 In-Stock

Illumina 400W Frost Watcher c/w Thermostat

£21.48 inc. VAT

HVF-2001T In-Stock

Sunbeam 2000 Watt Convector Heater with Timer

£33.60 inc. VAT

How to choose the right convector heater

Convection heating is one of the simplest forms of electric heat. Cool air enters at the bottom of the heater, warms as it passes the element and rises out of the top, setting up a gentle circulation that gradually lifts the temperature of the whole space.

Frost watchers and room convectors

The two heaters in this range do quite different jobs:

Illumina 400W Frost Watcher – a low-output heater with a thermostat, designed to keep a space just above freezing to protect pipes, pumps, stored paint or equipment.
Sunbeam 2000W Convector Heater – a full room heater with a timer, for warming a workshop, office or spare room to a comfortable temperature.

Points to consider

Match the output to the job: frost protection needs only a few hundred watts in a small, enclosed space, whereas comfort heating needs much more. Keep heaters clear of curtains, stored materials and sawdust, and never cover the outlet grille. In dusty or damp outbuildings, check the manufacturer's guidance on suitable locations. For continuous low-level heat along a wall, our tubular heaters are another option, and for rooms in daily use a wall-mounted panel heater with electronic controls may be more economical.

Control and supply

Portable convectors plug into a standard 13A socket, so make sure the socket and any extension are rated for the load. If a heater lacks fine temperature control, an analogue frost or room thermostat can help keep running costs down.

Fast delivery from Meteor

Order in-stock heaters before 5pm on a weekday and our own vans or DPD will deliver next working day across NI and ROI. Delivery is free over £30 / €35 ex VAT, and trade counter Click & Collect is available in Cookstown.

FAQ's Ask Your Own Question

How does a convector heater work?: A convector heater warms the air passing over an internal element. The heated air rises out of the top of the unit and cooler air is drawn in at the bottom, creating a natural circulation that gradually warms the whole room. Because it heats air rather than surfaces, it works best in reasonably enclosed, draught-free spaces.
What is a frost watcher heater used for?: A frost watcher is a low-wattage heater with a thermostat that switches on only when the temperature drops close to freezing. It protects pipes, water pumps, stored liquids and equipment in garages, sheds, pump houses and holiday homes. It is not intended to make a room comfortable, just to stop it freezing.
What size convector heater do I need for a garage?: It depends on whether you want frost protection or comfort. A 400W frost watcher is generally enough to keep a small, enclosed garage above freezing, while working comfortably in a single garage usually calls for around 2kW. Poor insulation, large doors and draughts all increase the output needed.
Is it safe to leave a frost watcher running all winter?: Frost watchers are designed to be left switched on for long periods, with the thermostat cycling the heater only when needed. Keep the unit on a stable surface, away from combustible materials and with the vents clear, and check the plug, flex and socket periodically. Always follow the manufacturer's safety instructions.
What is the difference between a convector heater and a panel heater?: Both heat mainly by convection, but a panel heater is a slim, usually wall-mounted unit with more precise electronic thermostat and timer control, intended for rooms used regularly. A freestanding convector is portable and simpler, making it better for occasional heating, temporary use or moving between outbuildings and workshops.
Can I collect a convector heater instead of having it delivered?: Yes. Meteor Electrical offers Click & Collect from our Cookstown trade counter, so you can order online and pick up in person. If you prefer delivery, in-stock items ordered by 5pm Monday to Friday arrive the next working day across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.