As temperatures plummet, Brits are looking for cost-effective ways to keep their homes warm. With the average household energy bill set to rise this winter, many are exploring alternatives to switching the heating on all the time.

Popular homeware store Dunelm has become a go-to for its electric heaters, providing quick bursts of warmth around the home. While cheaper options offer temporary relief, those willing to invest a bit more can make the heater a room’s centrepiece.

The Traditional Small Stove, retailing at £80, uses an efficient 45p of electricity per hour while emitting heat. Designed to resemble a classic fireplace with a flame effect, it features adjustable brightness and thermostatic temperature control to ensure a cosy environment throughout winter, reports the Mirror.

Available in black, grey, and off-white – the heater boasts an ‘ornate and timeless’ design, transforming it from a mere appliance to a standout room feature. Customers have been singing its praises in reviews.

One shopper said: “This little fire is so cosy. Makes the room look so homely and cottagey.” Another wrote: “Beautiful looking fire. I like that you can have it with just the lights on for a coal effect.”

The Traditional Small Stove is on sale for £80 and has rave reviews
The Traditional Small Stove is on sale for £80 and has rave reviews (Image: Dunelm)

A third shared pictures of their new heater, adding: “The flame effect is very realistic and makes you instantly feel warmer even without the heat switched on. The running noise is not very loud and easily disguised when TV/radio on in background.”

Someone else said: “Fantastic little heater. So glad I bought it ready for the winter.”

However, the reviews weren’t all glowing as one customer claimed: “I’m overall pleased with the stove. My only criticism would be that it says you can’t use it with an extension cable but the lead isn’t very long so worth bearing in mind if you don’t have a socket nearby.”

It comes in three different colours - including a stylish off-white
It comes in three different colours – including a stylish off-white (Image: Dunelm)

Another noted that “it’s no good in a big room”. But, for those in the same position, Dunelm has a similar-looking Large Stove Effect Heater priced at £189 that could work better in larger spaces.

For those looking at alternatives to any of Dunelm’s version, there are more options at other stores. The Electric Stove Heater from B&Q at a similar price point of £69.99 boasted its own realistic flames.

For shoppers leaning towards a contemporary aesthetic, the VonHaus Electric Stove Heater adds a modern twist to the traditional design, priced at £89.99 on Amazon. Complete with a glass front, it promises to make homes warm and inviting.