Heated Propagator - is it worth it?

I've never seen the point of one. If stuff germinates more quickly, it would just have to sit for even longer before it could go outside, which means a greater chance of problems. I use windowsills, or wait until it's warm enough to do them outside in the gr'house or a cold frame etc. Always depends on the type of plant too.
I thought that was a useful item on G'sWorld [for a change!] and it's the kind of thing that should have been shown a long time ago because I think people often believe a propagator is always the answer to getting plants further on in growth earlier in the year. It always comes down to what happens next, ie pricking out/potting on, and having enough room for those bigger pots, and then the outdoor conditions.
Lots of small bits of useful advice like that should be getting shown more often on that programme IMO, but that's a different topic.

In your circumstances, it might be of use though @Butterfly6 , if it's simply a case of not having suitable indoor sites with enough warmth/light, but the outdoor conditions you have will mean you can probably harden them off in the same way as someone with more appropriate sills/light etc.

 

I definitely think for certain seeds a form of bottom heat helps first one that comes to mind is cucumber and its relatives, pepper is another one, they can rot before germinating if they are sown below optimum temperature.

It depends on what you grow.

 

For me, a heated propagator is essential, I grow some seeds that will not germinate at a temperature of less than 20C. I also use grow lights to ensure the seedlings grow strongly.
Once germinated I do need to ensure there is somewhere warm and light enough for them to continue growing strongly until I can move them out of the house.

 

Thanks everyone. I think I will have a look at what’s available and cost. I don’t want to start everything off a bit earlier but would like to have more success with peppers etc so if I can find a small one with good reviews it can go on my C*** list.

I obviously failed to assess our house for indoor gardening requirements when we were house hunting as we haven’t even got an airing cupboard @JWK

 

I really don't see the point for any of the old fashioned timers so many good quality smart versions available that gives you absolute control when your device is on. My current favourites are by Tapo and can be had as multipacks on offer quite frequently. Great for turning on water features and heat mats. Tapo also make ones that monitor output so you can see how much they cost to run, if it's of interest. Makes table and floor lamps smart too...which helps add to my existing Hue smart bulbs set up with very little cost.

 

I’ve never though about trying the peppers etc with damp tissue/plastic bag

Have made a reminder in my gardening notebook to try this low tech method first. Am sure I can find a warm, dark space big enough for that.

Thanks everyone for all you replies