It is imperative that you heat your conservatory if you want to make use of it throughout the year for relaxation. The process of heating a conservatory is more complicated than you may think. The large amounts of glass that are typically found in conservatories make for a stunning indoor-outdoor space, but glass is not a very good insulator. The glass walls of the conservatory make it more difficult and expensive to keep the space at a comfortable temperature. Want to know more about conservatory heating?

The heating options for your conservatory will be the same as those for the rest of your home; however, due to the increased heat demand and reduced thermal efficiency of the conservatory, some of these alternatives will operate more effectively than others. Below are some of the best choices available. 

• Solar energy

The idea of a conservatory is to take advantage of the sun’s natural warmth. The room is mostly glass, making it uncomfortable in both summer and winter. However, the passive solar heat will keep the conservatory toasty for around half the year after we figure out how to direct the sun’s rays. 

Winterizing a conservatory requires roof insulation and thermal blinds or drapes. Shade can be provided in the summer by using blinds, awnings, or a pergola with deciduous plants.  A brick wall or floor is an ideal example of thermal mass, which can store heat during the day and release it at night.

• A second type of heat pump is the air-to-air type.

Essentially, it’s a heat pump disguised as an air conditioner. The initial investment and ongoing costs are often minimal (between £1,500 and £3,000, not including installation).  Note that they require electricity to function, and the future cost of that commodity is anyone’s guess. 

• A fire pit

One of the greatest locations for a wood burner in a contemporary home is the conservatory, which may come as a surprise to some. Most log-burning stoves can easily provide enough heat for a 5m x 4m conservatory during the winter. 

By connecting the conservatory to your existing central heating system, you may have it warm at all times, not just while you’re using it. A wood burner can produce that level of heat on demand, and its inexpensive initial and operating costs increase its appeal. Keep in mind that a flue or chimney must be built.

• Subfloor or floor heating systems

Electric UFH is simple to install in a new construction or (to a lesser extent) an existing conservatory for less than a thousand pounds, but it can be highly costly to operate. 

To put it simply, wet UFH would supplement your current heating system. For preexisting conservatories, this is a highly challenging and rather expensive installation. However, operating expenses are rather minimal. And it’s the only method that stands a chance of delivering adjustable ease. 

• Keeping radiators covered

These radiators, which are installed in the space normally occupied by the skirting boards, provide heating to the entire room. Almost all of the benefits and drawbacks of UFH also apply here, with the notable difference that this is an excellent choice for preexisting conservatories.