Experts recommend the best space heaters, including energy-efficient space heaters and electric heaters for big rooms.
There is a wide variety of pricing, shapes, and sizes for space heaters. We spoke with experts to learn where to look and how to choose the best space heater for any circumstance or room. Kara Greenberg from Amazon and NBC News
When the temperature drops, space heaters can quickly and affordably warm your house. In an emergency, having them on available can be beneficial. You can take an efficient boost of heat with the help of these portable heaters wherever you need it, whether it’s in a drafty bedroom or on the patio on a chilly night.
According to Bailey Carson, a home-care expert at Angi, “Outdoor space heaters are a fantastic way to warm up areas of your yard or patio so that you can still get together with friends and family even as the days get cooler.”
In order to find the best space heater for you, we spoke with home and safety specialists about the benefits of space heaters, the features to look for when shopping for one, and how to use them safely.
How to shop for a space heater
Before choosing a space heater, you must decide the size of the area you wish to warm. Arie Van Tuijl, a certified home inspector and the founder of the home maintenance website Home Inspector Secrets, generally advised purchasing a space heater with a power range of 500–1000 watts for smaller rooms (typically those that are 120 square feet or less) and between 1000–150 watts for larger rooms. For every square foot of floor area in the room, approximately 10 watts of heating power are required, according to indoor air quality company Sylvane. In other words, a 1,500-watt space heater can effectively heat a room up to 150 square feet in size. Carson also emphasizes how crucial it is to make sure your radiator is suitable for the room. Avoid the gas and propane versions when looking for an indoor space heater. If a gas heater is the right size, it might be a decent choice if you need a heater for your patio. Examine the manufacturer’s directions and do extensive research. Other essential characteristics to watch out for when purchasing include:
- Noise level. Some units are louder than others. If you’re shopping for a bedroom or home office, that’s something to keep in mind. One resource for finding devices that are especially quiet is Quiet Mark, which tests and awards products based on their noise output.
- Safety features. Space heaters can be potential fire hazards, so don’t overlook any built-in features designed to lessen that chance. “Make sure to buy one that has protective grills as well as auto-shut off capabilities [in case] the heater tips over or overheats,” said Carson. She advised double checking for an auto-shutoff feature if you’ve had your space heater for a while because some older versions might not have one.
- Warranty. A quality space heater will have a three-year warranty. Don’t forget to look into warranty options. “This way, you can protect your investment in case anything happens,” Wiseman noted.
- Energy efficiency. Space heaters are generally more energy efficient than central heating since you’re only heating up the room and some space heaters are also more energy efficient than others. Since space heaters don’t have Energy Star ratings — which independently certifies a product’s energy efficiency — the easiest way to determine if your unit conserves energy is by checking whether it has features like an adjustable thermostat and auto shut-off option that can maintain a certain temperature and prevent a room from overheating, according to the Department of Energy.
The best space heaters to shop
We gathered options at different price points that experts suggest in order to help you get a sense of the available space heater options. Each one has either the ETL or UL label, indicating that they have all undergone independent testing to ensure they are safe and satisfy Underwriters Laboratory standards. Also mentioned were the experts’ preferred models of space warmers from companies like Dyson, Vornado, Lasko, and others.
Our Top Picks
- Can heat up a large room with Auto Energy Saving Model With High and Low Feature. Tip-over protection and Overheat protection.Heat Up for a large room - Dual Heating System: Infrared Quartz tube + PTC for 60% more heat than others. Rated around 5200 BTU.
- Dual Heating Systems featuring infrared quartz tube + PTC with 12hr automatic shut-off timer. Amperage: 12.5 Amps
- IR Remote Control, High Pressure Low Noise Blower with Noise level 39 dB super quiet. Heating can cover for a large room.
- Electronic Thermostat: range 50 to 85 degrees. Caster Wheels and Lifetime Filter
- Weights 24 lbs and uses 12.5 Amps of Power. 1500 Watts. Electric Cord is 72 inches long (6 feet)
- 6 quartz infrared heating elements
- 3 heat settings: 1,000w / 1,500w / and ECO-maintains a constant 68º
- Overheat safety switch
- Tip-over safety switch
- Cool touch exterior cabinet
- FULL ROOM WARMTH: Packs 1500 watts of heating power for full room comfort
- SLEEK LOOK: Whether set on the floor or mounted to the wall, this is a stylish way to stay warm
- PERSONALIZED COMFORT: Adjustable thermostat and multiple heat settings allow you to customize to your heating needs
- CONVENIENT WALL MOUNT: Safe and easy to mount to any wall with included kit
- PORTABLE WARMTH: Lightweight, compact unit with convenient handle and wheels easily moves from room to room
- 【 Multi Heating Modes】3 heating options 600w，900w, 1500w, and ECO mode with temperature settings range 40-95F by ±1F temperature adjustment each press.This oil heater also featuring 24 hours on/off timer with remote control provide more convenient using for all your needs.
- 【 Fashion Looking & Easy Operation】 Big but elegant control panel with soft touch buttons, big & clearly display with necessary indication icons provide more comfortable operation experience for users. Fast and easy wheels assembly makes you no worry for using it immediately after purchasing.
- 【 Quiet and Comfortable Heating】Free of oil-refill and very quiet heating, ideal oil heater without any noise for your full night & baby sleep. This digital space heater provide even and no dry heating all the time, not instant warm your home but keeps longer warms than other type of heaters.
- 【Smart ECO Mode Save your Money】No need adjust your oil heater frequently as it has smart ECO mode. ECO mode would keep your ideal setting TEMP automatically which also saving your energy bill.
- 【Worry-Free】No headache for your after-sales service, we are confident for our quality and take our responsibility. We are always with you via Amazon, you will get solution in 24 hours.
- SAVE UP TO 50% OR MORE ON HEATING BILL ENERGY COSTS. Turn down your central heat and heat the areas of your home where you want, when you want, for as little as 4 cents per hour. Super-efficient, ultra-safe, wall mounted, low wattage, whole room heater that pays for itself in less than one winter. Supplements or replaces central heating.
- COOL TO THE TOUCH AT ONLY 90 DEGREES FAHRENHEIT WITH WALL-SENS SAFETY SENSOR TO CUT POWER IF THE HEATER IS REMOVED FROM THE WALL.Can be left running 24/7 for peace of mind to protect children, the elderly and pets. Doesn’t blow dust or allergens around a room, creating a cleaner, healthier environment for allergy sufferers and those with respiratory problems. Doesn’t dry out the air thus reducing winter nose bleeds and dry eye syndrome.
- EXPERIENCE TOTALLY SILENT (FAN-LESS), GENTLE WARMTH HEATING WITH AN AUTO-DIMMING POWER LIGHT FOR A GREAT NIGHT'S SLEEP! Patented, fan-less design with “Stack Convecti
- SIMPLE TO INSTALL IN MINUTES (NO DRILL OR CONTRACTOR REQUIRED). Easy to operate and clean with no moving parts so it is 100% maintenance free. Zero lifetime repair costs compared to expensive central heating system. Slim, sleek and stylish space saving design, reduces floor clutter! Only 2 inches thin!
- BRAND NEW FOR 2022 MODEL NUMBER LE5012P! NEW MODERN DESIGN AND ELEGANT TOP VENT AND CONTROLS! LOW POWER DRAW (ONLY 500 WATTS & 4.2 AMPS) SO MULTIPLE HEATERS CAN BE INSTALLED WITHOUT TRIPPING A BREAKER. Great for generators & solar power. Widely used in bathrooms and bedrooms, in offices and businesses, in hotels, and in nursing homes and apartment complexes. 3 year warranty, made in USA and award winning customer service!
- ✅【POWER YOU CAN FEEL】The 27" Lasko Bladeless Tower Household Space Heater produces 1500-Watts of power to keep you warm all day and night; With 2 adjustable heat settings, and adjustable thermostat and a remote control, this tower heater is perfect for large rooms, bedrooms, and offices.
- ✅【ICONIC BLADELESS DESIGN】The Tower heater has a slim and sturdy design that fits beautifully into any home or office décor providing all-day comfort. Portable and easy-to-assemble at only 9.66 lbs., this tower heater has a molded handle.
- ✅【WIDESPREAD OSCILLATION】Widespread oscillation projects comforting warmth around your space allowing for full room coverage
- ✅【TIMER + AUTO-DIMMING MODE】The 27" Lasko Bladeless Tower Heater has an 8-hour timer for easy on/off during the day or night; With the Auto-Dimming mode, the illuminated controls will go into Auto-Dimming Mode 10 seconds from the time the last button is pushed. The reduction in brightness will keep the room darker during heater use. The Auto-Dimming Feature reduces the display brightness by 40%.
- ✅【DESIGNED IN THE USA】Designed and engineered in the USA; Backed by our 3-yr manufacturer’s warranty, Lasko has more than 115 years of American design and manufacturing experience building high-quality, ETL listed, reliable heaters to keep you warm at home.
- HEAT DIFFERENTLY — Gently heat all in the air in a small to medium-sized room through vortex air circulation without using intense heat, similar to how a forced air furnace works, just on a smaller scale.
- AUTO CLIMATE CONTROL — Intelligently senses how much heat and circulation is needed to maintain set temperature, and makes adjustments automatically so you don't have to.High Heat Amps:12.5
- HEAT EFFICIENTLY — 2 quiet heat settings (Low/750W, High/1500W) and a fan only option to tailor heat output and energy consumption.
- HEAT SAFELY — Advanced safety features include a cool-touch exterior, tip-over protection, and an automatic safety shut-off system for worry-free use.
- SUPERIOR SUPPORT — Backed by a 5-year hassle-free and supported by a customer service team based in Andover, KS. Heat Regulation: Adjustable Thermistor
- Up to 75°F in 2 Seconds: Get the warmth 10% with Dreo's Hyperamics technology. 1500W high power transforms your cold room to a hot spot with high-speed heating at up to 9.77 ft/s..Heating Coverage:Up to 200 sq.ft.
- Warmth That Surrounds: 70° wide-angle heating warms up your room in more widespread directions. 2022 upgraded outlet was fine-tuned 20° downward so the heat travels a longer way, ideal for large rooms like offices, bedrooms and living rooms.
- Protected by Shield360°: Dreo's Shield360° system provides tip-over and overheat protection, as well as 24-hour auto off protection. Made with V-0 flame-retardant materials, this ETL-listed space heater also has a bend-proof safety plug that ensures ultimate safety at home.
- More Peaceful Winter Days: Ultra-quiet heating delivers calm, cozy warmth that eases your mood throughout the day, with noise as low as 37.5 dB, much quieter than a library.
- Huge Savings on Energy: With 5 modes (1500W/900W/700W/ECO/Fan Only), you're allowed to tune the heat as you like to save more on energy bills. In ECO Mode, you can define the exact heat you desire from 41 to 95°F in 1°F increments.
- Multi functionality; HEPA Air Purifier. Space heater, + fan; In one; Backward airflow mode purifies without cooling or heating you
- Dyson technology helps create a cleaner, healthier home - Our vacuums and purifiers are scientifically proven to capture particles as small as allergens and bacteria.
- SENSES: Automatically senses air pollution events, initiates purification, & reports air quality levels on LCD display, including ultrafine particles (PM 2.5), allergens (PM10), volatile organic compounds (VOCs) & nitrogen dioxide (NO2)
- Captures: The sealed HEPA filter captures 99.97 percent of allergens as small as 0.3 microns makes this an ideal air purifier for allergies, pets, dust, smoke, pollen and mold spores
- Projects: Projects purified air throughout the whole room; Air Multiplier technology delivers over 77 gallons per second of smooth, yet powerful airflow; Up to 350 degree of oscillation directs airflow where you need it to help make the air cleaner
- ✅【2 QUIET HEAT SETTINGS】This tabletop electric space heater features easy-to-use manual controls with 2 quiet heat settings (high 1500 watts / low 900 watts), plus a fan only mode
- ✅【ADJUSTABLE THERMOSTAT】The adjustable thermostat maintains the temperature in your space allowing for personalized comfort
- ✅【WIDESPREAD OSCILLATION】The optional widespread oscillation projects heat into the room for full-room coverage and maximum warmth
- ✅【EASY TO USE】The Lasko 5409 ceramic space heater comes fully assembled and ready to use, the built-in carry handle allows for easy transport from room to room
- ✅【BUILT-IN SAFETY FEATURES】Safety is a top priority at Lasko, this space heater features overheat protection, a safe ceramic element and a cool-touch exterior
Review
Dr. Infrared Heater Portable Space Heater
Top radiant space heater
- Can heat up a large room with Auto Energy Saving Model With High and Low Feature. Tip-over protection and Overheat protection.Heat Up for a large room - Dual Heating System: Infrared Quartz tube + PTC for 60% more heat than others. Rated around 5200 BTU.
- Dual Heating Systems featuring infrared quartz tube + PTC with 12hr automatic shut-off timer. Amperage: 12.5 Amps
- IR Remote Control, High Pressure Low Noise Blower with Noise level 39 dB super quiet. Heating can cover for a large room.
- Electronic Thermostat: range 50 to 85 degrees. Caster Wheels and Lifetime Filter
- Weights 24 lbs and uses 12.5 Amps of Power. 1500 Watts. Electric Cord is 72 inches long (6 feet)
Glenn Wiseman, sales manager of Top Hat Home Comfort Services in Ontario, recommended this mobile infrared type due to its dual heating system and built-in thermostat with a temperature range of 50 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. According to him, the energy-efficient space heater has 1,500 watts and can heat a 150 square foot area evenly. It is powered by a 120 volt electric cord. A 12-hour automatic shutoff timer is also included.
Lifesmart 6 Element Heater
Top radiant space heater for big rooms
- 6 quartz infrared heating elements
- 3 heat settings: 1,000w / 1,500w / and ECO-maintains a constant 68º
- Overheat safety switch
- Tip-over safety switch
- Cool touch exterior cabinet
Van Tuijl recommended this 1500 watt maximum Lifesmart infrared space heater for areas up to 150 square feet in size. It has a 12-hour timer, a remote control, and three different heat levels. It also has a “eco option,” which the manufacturer claims keeps the temperature at 68 degrees while using less energy, for when you want to bring it into a smaller room.
De’Longhi Mica Thermic Panel Heater
Top panel radiant space heater
- FULL ROOM WARMTH: Packs 1500 watts of heating power for full room comfort
- SLEEK LOOK: Whether set on the floor or mounted to the wall, this is a stylish way to stay warm
- PERSONALIZED COMFORT: Adjustable thermostat and multiple heat settings allow you to customize to your heating needs
- CONVENIENT WALL MOUNT: Safe and easy to mount to any wall with included kit
- PORTABLE WARMTH: Lightweight, compact unit with convenient handle and wheels easily moves from room to room
This compact, lightweight portable space heater offers the ease of being wall- or floor-mountable. It has wheels as well, making it simple to move around the home. It has a 1500 watt heating capacity, a programmable thermostat, and numerous heat settings, the business claims, allowing you to customize your comfort.
KopBeau 1500W Oil Filled Radiator Space Heater
Top convection space heater
- 【 Multi Heating Modes】3 heating options 600w，900w, 1500w, and ECO mode with temperature settings range 40-95F by ±1F temperature adjustment each press.This oil heater also featuring 24 hours on/off timer with remote control provide more convenient using for all your needs.
- 【 Fashion Looking & Easy Operation】 Big but elegant control panel with soft touch buttons, big & clearly display with necessary indication icons provide more comfortable operation experience for users. Fast and easy wheels assembly makes you no worry for using it immediately after purchasing.
- 【 Quiet and Comfortable Heating】Free of oil-refill and very quiet heating, ideal oil heater without any noise for your full night & baby sleep. This digital space heater provide even and no dry heating all the time, not instant warm your home but keeps longer warms than other type of heaters.
- 【Smart ECO Mode Save your Money】No need adjust your oil heater frequently as it has smart ECO mode. ECO mode would keep your ideal setting TEMP automatically which also saving your energy bill.
- 【Worry-Free】No headache for your after-sales service, we are confident for our quality and take our responsibility. We are always with you via Amazon, you will get solution in 24 hours.
Van Tuijl proclaimed that this KopBeau internal space heater is his top pick for bedrooms. The four heating settings on this oil-fueled convection model are low, medium, high, and eco mode, which, according to the maker, alternates between the highest and lowest settings to maintain a comfortable temperature in your room while using less energy. KopBeau claims that for ease of use, the heater also includes a remote device and a 24-hour on/off timer.
Envi 120v Plug-in Electric Panel Wall Heater
Top wall-mounted convection space heater
- SAVE UP TO 50% OR MORE ON HEATING BILL ENERGY COSTS. Turn down your central heat and heat the areas of your home where you want, when you want, for as little as 4 cents per hour. Super-efficient, ultra-safe, wall mounted, low wattage, whole room heater that pays for itself in less than one winter. Supplements or replaces central heating.
- COOL TO THE TOUCH AT ONLY 90 DEGREES FAHRENHEIT WITH WALL-SENS SAFETY SENSOR TO CUT POWER IF THE HEATER IS REMOVED FROM THE WALL.Can be left running 24/7 for peace of mind to protect children, the elderly and pets. Doesn’t blow dust or allergens around a room, creating a cleaner, healthier environment for allergy sufferers and those with respiratory problems. Doesn’t dry out the air thus reducing winter nose bleeds and dry eye syndrome.
- EXPERIENCE TOTALLY SILENT (FAN-LESS), GENTLE WARMTH HEATING WITH AN AUTO-DIMMING POWER LIGHT FOR A GREAT NIGHT'S SLEEP! Patented, fan-less design with “Stack Convecti
- SIMPLE TO INSTALL IN MINUTES (NO DRILL OR CONTRACTOR REQUIRED). Easy to operate and clean with no moving parts so it is 100% maintenance free. Zero lifetime repair costs compared to expensive central heating system. Slim, sleek and stylish space saving design, reduces floor clutter! Only 2 inches thin!
- BRAND NEW FOR 2022 MODEL NUMBER LE5012P! NEW MODERN DESIGN AND ELEGANT TOP VENT AND CONTROLS! LOW POWER DRAW (ONLY 500 WATTS & 4.2 AMPS) SO MULTIPLE HEATERS CAN BE INSTALLED WITHOUT TRIPPING A BREAKER. Great for generators & solar power. Widely used in bathrooms and bedrooms, in offices and businesses, in hotels, and in nursing homes and apartment complexes. 3 year warranty, made in USA and award winning customer service!
This convection space heater that is mounted on the wall and comes with Wall-Sens technology from the manufacturer, which shuts off the power when the unit is removed from the wall for safety, was suggested by Van Tuijl. Just 2 inches thick, the device can instantly dim the power light in dark spaces and, according to Envi, heats rooms between 130 and 150 square feet.
Lasko Electric Tower Heater
Top tower convection space heater
- ✅【POWER YOU CAN FEEL】The 27" Lasko Bladeless Tower Household Space Heater produces 1500-Watts of power to keep you warm all day and night; With 2 adjustable heat settings, and adjustable thermostat and a remote control, this tower heater is perfect for large rooms, bedrooms, and offices.
- ✅【ICONIC BLADELESS DESIGN】The Tower heater has a slim and sturdy design that fits beautifully into any home or office décor providing all-day comfort. Portable and easy-to-assemble at only 9.66 lbs., this tower heater has a molded handle.
- ✅【WIDESPREAD OSCILLATION】Widespread oscillation projects comforting warmth around your space allowing for full room coverage
- ✅【TIMER + AUTO-DIMMING MODE】The 27" Lasko Bladeless Tower Heater has an 8-hour timer for easy on/off during the day or night; With the Auto-Dimming mode, the illuminated controls will go into Auto-Dimming Mode 10 seconds from the time the last button is pushed. The reduction in brightness will keep the room darker during heater use. The Auto-Dimming Feature reduces the display brightness by 40%.
- ✅【DESIGNED IN THE USA】Designed and engineered in the USA; Backed by our 3-yr manufacturer’s warranty, Lasko has more than 115 years of American design and manufacturing experience building high-quality, ETL listed, reliable heaters to keep you warm at home.
Compared to competing names like Dyson, this Lasko space heater is more affordable and has a bladeless design. Several safety elements, including a safe touch surface and an automatic 8-hour shut-off switch, are included, according to Lasko. According to the manufacturer, this tower’s quiet oscillating mode can evenly spread heat in spaces up to 300 square feet.
Vornado AVH10 Vortex Heater
Top combination space heater
- HEAT DIFFERENTLY — Gently heat all in the air in a small to medium-sized room through vortex air circulation without using intense heat, similar to how a forced air furnace works, just on a smaller scale.
- AUTO CLIMATE CONTROL — Intelligently senses how much heat and circulation is needed to maintain set temperature, and makes adjustments automatically so you don't have to.High Heat Amps:12.5
- HEAT EFFICIENTLY — 2 quiet heat settings (Low/750W, High/1500W) and a fan only option to tailor heat output and energy consumption.
- HEAT SAFELY — Advanced safety features include a cool-touch exterior, tip-over protection, and an automatic safety shut-off system for worry-free use.
- SUPERIOR SUPPORT — Backed by a 5-year hassle-free and supported by a customer service team based in Andover, KS. Heat Regulation: Adjustable Thermistor
The Vornado AVH10 Vortex Heater has two heat settings, a fan-only setting, and an adjustable thermostat that, according to the manufacturer, allows you to exactly regulate the temperature of your room. Wiseman cited Vornado as a brand with high safety standards. According to Vornado, it has a concealed cord storage compartment at the bottom of the radiator and can heat spaces up to 300 square feet.
Dreo Indoor Space Heater
Top energy-efficient combination space heater
- Up to 75°F in 2 Seconds: Get the warmth 10% with Dreo's Hyperamics technology. 1500W high power transforms your cold room to a hot spot with high-speed heating at up to 9.77 ft/s..Heating Coverage:Up to 200 sq.ft.
- Warmth That Surrounds: 70° wide-angle heating warms up your room in more widespread directions. 2022 upgraded outlet was fine-tuned 20° downward so the heat travels a longer way, ideal for large rooms like offices, bedrooms and living rooms.
- Protected by Shield360°: Dreo's Shield360° system provides tip-over and overheat protection, as well as 24-hour auto off protection. Made with V-0 flame-retardant materials, this ETL-listed space heater also has a bend-proof safety plug that ensures ultimate safety at home.
- More Peaceful Winter Days: Ultra-quiet heating delivers calm, cozy warmth that eases your mood throughout the day, with noise as low as 37.5 dB, much quieter than a library.
- Huge Savings on Energy: With 5 modes (1500W/900W/700W/ECO/Fan Only), you're allowed to tune the heat as you like to save more on energy bills. In ECO Mode, you can define the exact heat you desire from 41 to 95°F in 1°F increments.
Due to its user-friendly touch screen panel, potent heat output, and remote control features, Van Tuijl suggested this Dreo convection space heater. This model has a digital thermostat with a temperature range of 41 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit and three heating settings. According to the manufacturer, it also has a timer that turns the device off after 12 hours and a remote that allows you to switch it off up to 26 feet away.
Dyson Pure Hot + Cool HP04 Fan
Top high-end combination space heater
- Multi functionality; HEPA Air Purifier. Space heater, + fan; In one; Backward airflow mode purifies without cooling or heating you
- Dyson technology helps create a cleaner, healthier home - Our vacuums and purifiers are scientifically proven to capture particles as small as allergens and bacteria.
- SENSES: Automatically senses air pollution events, initiates purification, & reports air quality levels on LCD display, including ultrafine particles (PM 2.5), allergens (PM10), volatile organic compounds (VOCs) & nitrogen dioxide (NO2)
- Captures: The sealed HEPA filter captures 99.97 percent of allergens as small as 0.3 microns makes this an ideal air purifier for allergies, pets, dust, smoke, pollen and mold spores
- Projects: Projects purified air throughout the whole room; Air Multiplier technology delivers over 77 gallons per second of smooth, yet powerful airflow; Up to 350 degree of oscillation directs airflow where you need it to help make the air cleaner
According to the manufacturer, the bladeless Dyson Pure Hot + Cold functions as a remote-controlled heater, fan, and air cleaner all in one. According to the manufacturer, the remote-controlled fan has several modes, including a backward airflow mode that directs air through the space heater’s back, maintaining its purifying impact without the draft. The fan’s oscillation range is up to 350 degrees. According to Dyson, it also has a night setting with a dimmed display. This space heater, according to Wiseman, is “substantially quieter” than many other models and can control the quality of the air inside a home. Using a HEPA-style filter, this Dyson option, according to the manufacturer, can catch 99.97 percent of particles that are 0.3 microns in size. The device can also connect to Wi-Fi so you can use the Dyson Link app to schedule when your air purifier is on and control it afar.
Lasko Oscillating Ceramic Heater
Top ceramic combination space heater
- ✅【2 QUIET HEAT SETTINGS】This tabletop electric space heater features easy-to-use manual controls with 2 quiet heat settings (high 1500 watts / low 900 watts), plus a fan only mode
- ✅【ADJUSTABLE THERMOSTAT】The adjustable thermostat maintains the temperature in your space allowing for personalized comfort
- ✅【WIDESPREAD OSCILLATION】The optional widespread oscillation projects heat into the room for full-room coverage and maximum warmth
- ✅【EASY TO USE】The Lasko 5409 ceramic space heater comes fully assembled and ready to use, the built-in carry handle allows for easy transport from room to room
- ✅【BUILT-IN SAFETY FEATURES】Safety is a top priority at Lasko, this space heater features overheat protection, a safe ceramic element and a cool-touch exterior
If you’re on a tight budget, the portable Lasko Oscillating Ceramic Heater, which is the most affordable selection on this list, might be a good choice. Lasko claims that this space heater has two heat settings (low and high), a cool air fan option, and can heat spaces up to 300 square feet. According to the manufacturer, you can also use the thermostat knob to turn on the appliance and set it to turn off automatically when a particular temperature is reached (though the knob doesn’t actually display any numbers).
What is a space heater — and do you need one?
Van Tuijl described space heaters as portable appliances intended to heat a single room rather than a complete house. Space heaters are a wonderful option, according to him, if you have central heating and some rooms in your house get chilly or you simply want a burst of warm air in a specific location. Space heaters work as an addition to your primary HVAC system to only raise the temperature in a specific location, saving you money on heating and maintaining a warm home. an an a, but not yet an a.ute, the. at a.a a…. a. a.
However, Van Tuijl also pointed out that drafty homes can make space heaters less efficient. He advised installing a door sweep on external doors with bottom gaps and adding weather stripping to windows with top gaps, which are frequently present. Space warmers, according to Carson, are typically a temporary fix for a particular problem. They aren’t intended to replace a reliable heating system, so consult a professional to solve the underlying issue if you find yourself using space heaters to cover up uneven heating in your house.
Other space heater benefits
In addition to heating up a room, space heaters have several other potential benefits.
Space heaters are efficient: Compared to an HVAC system, a space heater distributes heat and warmth more quickly throughout a room. He noted that central heating frequently requires some time to reach a desired temperature. It’s an easy method to quickly increase the temperature and add warmth to any space that needs it.
Space lamps generally: Others let you set a particular temperature between 60 and 80 degrees. Some space heaters only have a basic high or low heat setting. However, once you’ve established your preferred temperature, space heaters can keep a room at that setting for as long as you like.
Types of space heaters
According to Carson, portable space heaters can be used in almost any area and come in a variety of sizes and shapes. For every square foot of floor space in the room, you need approximately 10 watts of heating power, according to indoor air quality company Sylvane. In other words, a 1,500-watt space heater can serve as the main heat source for a room up to 150 square feet in size. There are several various kinds to pick from, and each is intended to heat your space in a unique way. Radiant, convection, and combination space heaters are the three major categories.
Radiant space heaters
Radiant heaters, according to Carson, are excellent for big rooms because they emit infrared radiation to heat only the area in front of them, as opposed to a larger area (not unlike a campfire). They are therefore excellent at keeping you warm in big, open areas, according to Carson. The fact that these heaters are quiet, portable, and simple to install makes them ideal for anyone who works from home.
Convection space heaters
Convection heaters warm the air in a room, as opposed to radiant heaters, which usually warm a specific area or a group of people. Wiseman asserts that the air inside a convector warms up and loses density relative to the outside air. , and thes., ands. thes.s, the of the, and the, and the, and the, and the the thes.s. thes.. at.. Convection systems are able to quietly disperse the heat without the use of a fan because they depend on hot air rising and cold air falling.
These space heaters warm a room the slowest, but, in the opinion of the specialists we talked to, they are the best if you want an even distribution of heat. Baseboard or floor heaters are examples of common convection types (these are typically more permanent options that you can control with a thermostat, but portable options exist too). These include ceramic convection heaters, which use a fan to warm the air over heated ceramic plates, and oil-filled convection heaters, which heat a reservoir of thermal oil inside the device using an electrical element. A wall heater is a convection option that can free up floor space; some versions can be plugged into a wall outlet, but the majority must be installed by a professional and hardwired inside the wall.
Because they can become hot to the contact, convection heaters might not be appropriate for homes with young children, according to Van Tuijl.
Combination heaters
Combination heaters use a fan to distribute heat fairly rapidly, but they may be noisier than convection or radiant heaters. The good thing about these heaters, according to Van Tuijl, is that they don’t get hot enough to pose a burn or fire risk or emit an obtrusive orange light. But he added that because they frequently create a lot of noise, these heaters can “dry out the skin.”
Space heaters and safety
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, space heater use contributes to more than 25,000 residential fires annually and causes 6,000 emergency room visits for burn injuries brought on by coming into touch with the heaters’ hot surfaces.
Many experts advised searching for space heaters that have undergone independent safety laboratory testing, such as Intertek (ETL) and Underwriters Laboratories, in order to avoid fires and injuries (UL). A space heater can be very safe if it is used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, according to Joel Hawk, senior engineering manager for small appliances at UL. These labs test space heaters in accordance with nationally recognized safety standards.
Although the characteristics that can certify products as “reasonably safe” vary from one space heater to the next, Hawk said his engineers typically check to see if the product responds to malfunctions or overheating conditions appropriately (and if it permanently shuts down in unsafe conditions), as well as if it has features that prevent electric shock, such as suitable insulation and heat-resistant cords. Hawk refers to this as testing for “personal injury,” and UL checks to make sure the product won’t catch fire, that there are no moving components that could injure users if they come into contact with them, and that there are no surfaces that are hot enough to cause thermal burns.
Our experts noted that common sense also plays a significant role in safety, even though independent testing and built-in safety features from the maker can indicate that a space heater is technically safe. The following safety advice is provided by the CPSC to reduce the chance of fire:
- Never leave a heater operating while unattended or while you are sleeping.
- Keep combustible material like papers, clothes, beds and curtains at least 3 feet from the front, sides and back of the heater.
- Avoid powering the heater with an extension cord or power strip.
- Place the heater on a stable, level surface where it won’t be knocked over.
- To prevent electrical shocks, always keep electric heaters away from water, and never touch an electric heater if you’re wet.
Last update on 2023-05-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
