As energy costs continue to squeeze household budgets and winter bites, finding efficient ways to stay warm is a priority for many across the UK. In a bid to heat my large, combined living and dining room more quickly and cheaply, I put two popular radiator fans to the test in 2025.
Putting Radiator Fans to the Test
Despite investing in upgraded radiators, my main living area remained the slowest room in the house to reach a comfortable temperature. To tackle this, I trialled products from two distinct brands: the SmartAir Boost XL Fan Heater, priced at £70 from Argos, and the SpeedComfort radiator fans, which start from £49.95 on Amazon. The goal was simple: see if they could accelerate warmth and potentially reduce energy use.
Design and Setup: A Clear Difference
The first noticeable contrast was in their design and placement. The SmartAir unit sits atop the radiator, with fans configured to blow warmed air horizontally out into the room. Conversely, the SpeedComfort fans are installed underneath the radiator, directing heat upwards.
This gives the SpeedComfort a visual edge, as it remains largely out of sight. The SmartAir, while more visible, offers a significant practical advantage: it operates on a battery, avoiding unsightly cables. The SpeedComfort models require a mains plug. Both systems were straightforward to install and feature automatic sensors that activate only when the radiator is hot.
Performance and Practical Drawbacks
Both products delivered on their core promise, noticeably speeding up how fast the room warmed up. However, I preferred the SmartAir's method of pushing heat directly into the living space, which felt more effective than the upward trajectory of the SpeedComfort.
Yet, each fan has its compromises. The primary issue with the SmartAir is noise. Its highest setting is particularly loud, though the low setting is effective and manageable with background noise like a television. It could be disruptive in a quiet bedroom at night.
For the SpeedComfort, the major hurdle is cost. While they work well, the price point is steep. Equipping every radiator in a typical house could easily exceed £900, a significant upfront outlay that would take years to recoup through energy savings. For context, a cheaper alternative like radiator reflective foil, available for under £15, offers a more accessible starting point for cutting heat loss.
The Verdict: Which Radiator Fan Wins?
After thorough testing, the SmartAir Boost XL emerges as the preferred choice. Its direct, horizontal airflow into the room provides a more tangible benefit in daily use. Despite the noise on higher settings, its performance, battery option, and lower barrier to entry for a single radiator make it a more compelling solution for those seeking a heating boost.
The SmartAir Boost XL is sold at Argos, Yimbly, and HighStreetTV for around £70. SpeedComfort fans are available on Amazon and at Currys, with prices varying based on the size and pack required.
