Dimplex RUG3TS Rugged Workshop 3kW Fan Heater review: running cost and verdict
Steel-cased 3 kW workshop heater (1.5 or 3 kW) with thermostat and frost setting, tilt switch, dust filter and IP21 drip protection: built for garages and workshops, not living rooms.
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The good
- Two heat settings: 1.5 and 3 kW
- Steel fascias, carry handles and a washable inlet filter
- Tilt switch and overheat protection
- IP21 drip protection for condensation-prone spaces
The not so good
- Few reviews so far
- For well-insulated spaces or occasional use (per Dimplex)
How much does it cost to run?
One hour at full power (3,000 W)
Low setting: 39.5p an hour
A month of typical use
2 hours a day at full power
Ofgem price cap, Direct Debit, national average (1 October to 31 December 2026). Watt for watt, every electric heater costs the same to run. What makes the Dimplex RUG3TS Rugged Workshop 3kW Fan Heater cheaper or dearer is its size and its controls: dial thermostat. More in which electric heater is cheapest to run.
Specifications
| Type | Fan heater |
|---|---|
| Power | 3,000 W (low setting 1,500 W) |
| Room size | about 23 m² (248 sq ft) |
| Controls | Dial thermostat |
| Oscillation | No |
| Tip-over protection | Yes |
| Splash protection | No |
| Noise | Not stated |
| Amazon ASIN | B09HSKKRT3 |
| Source of specs | Amazon.co.uk listing and Dimplex retailer specs (RUG3TS, IP21, 3-year warranty with registration) |
Frequently asked questions
How much does the Dimplex RUG3TS Rugged Workshop 3kW Fan Heater cost to run?
At full power it uses 3.00 kWh an hour: about 79.0p at the Ofgem price cap (26.32p/kWh). Typical use (2 hours a day at full power) comes to around £47.38 a month.
What size room will the Dimplex RUG3TS Rugged Workshop 3kW Fan Heater heat?
About 23 m² (248 sq ft) in a reasonably insulated home. For a draughty room or an old house, go one size up.
Can I leave the Dimplex RUG3TS Rugged Workshop 3kW Fan Heater on overnight?
Fan heaters are best for short bursts. Use the timer, never cover it and switch it off when you go to sleep.
Can I use the Dimplex RUG3TS Rugged Workshop 3kW Fan Heater in a bathroom?
No: it has no splash protection. In a bathroom use only heaters rated IP24 or higher, fitted outside the wet zones.
Alternatives
Dreo Atom 316 Ceramic Heater 1500W
- Fan heater · 1,500 W
- One of the most-reviewed ceramic heaters on Amazon UK: quiet (34 dB), digital thermostat, 12-hour timer and remote. Warms a bedroom or home office in minutes.
- Costs 39.5p an hour at full power.
Dreo 2000W Oscillating Ceramic Heater
- Fan heater · 2,000 W
- 2 kW with 70° oscillation to spread the heat, a thermostat, 12-hour timer and remote. Enough to take the chill off a living room quickly.
- Costs 52.6p an hour at full power.
Dreo Solaris Slim H3S Smart Heater 2000W
- Fan heater · 2,000 W
- Slim 2 kW heater you can switch on from your phone before you get home, with thermostat, oscillation, timer and remote.
- Costs 52.6p an hour at full power.
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