Space heater safety: the safest space heaters for 2022 | hvac.

Space heater safety: the safest space heaters for 2022

Space heaters are an effective solution for keeping warm in the winter months. But they don’t have a great reputation for safety.

In this article, we’ll review space heater safety tips and share our picks for the safest space heaters on the market.

Safest space heaters

Best overall

Vornado MVH Vortex

• Powerful fan
• Built-in thermostat
• 5-year warranty

Buy on Amazon

For large rooms

Dr. Infrared DR988

• Humidifier
• Eco mode
• Sleep mode

Buy on Amazon

Gas-powered

Mr. Heater F232000

• Indoor/outdoor
• Low oxygen sensor
• Rugged

Buy on Amazon

Best design

Honeywell UberHeat

• Modern look
• Programmable thermostat
• Affordable

Buy on Amazon

Pet-safe

De’Longhi Mica Thermic

• Wall-mount
• Slim form
• Safety indicator light

Buy on Amazon

Are space heaters safe?

The Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates that portable electric heaters cause about 1,200 fires per year. But most of these fires could have been easily prevented with proper usage.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends you follow some basic space heater safety tips if you choose to use one in your home.

Space heater safety tips

• Keep your heater at least 3 feet away from flammable materials, including curtains and blankets.
• Place your heater on a flat, stable surface.
• Ensure your heater is in a low-traffic area that isn’t blocking an exit.
• Don’t operate your heater near water. (Except if you’re using a waterproof bathroom space heater.)
• Plug your heater directly into the wall outlet – do not use an extension cord.
• Don’t run your heater’s cord under a rug or carpet. It may become damaged.
• Don’t operate a heater you know is damaged.
• If you have a fuel-burning space heater, make sure your room is ventilated properly.
• Never leave your heater unattended. Turn it off when you go to sleep.

Space heater safety features

In addition to following the space heater safety tips above, make sure the space heater you choose has built-in safety features such as:

• Automatic shutdown for tip-overs
• Built-in thermostat
• Overheat protection
• Cool-touch casing
• Grill cover
• Underwriters Laboratories (UL) certification to ensure safety testing

Choosing the safest space heaters

Space heaters are typically powered by either gas or electricity. 

Gas vs. electric space heaters

Gas-fueled space heaters usually use propane, kerosene, or another fuel to create heat. Their pilot light burns the gas as fuel to warm the room. Electric space heaters plug into a standard electrical wall socket.

In addition to the general hazards of using a space heater, portable gas heaters can create deadly carbon monoxide if your room isn’t ventilated properly. They employ an open flame and flammable gas, so many are not a great choice for safe indoor warmth.

Companies label their heaters for indoor, outdoor, or multi-purpose use. Follow all manufacturer guidelines when it comes to safe use.

Electric space heaters are generally the safer and more practical option compared to gas heaters. However, gas heaters are usually less expensive to run and more energy-efficient.

📌 Pro tip:
We recommend using carbon monoxide detectors and smoke detectors in your home. Whether you’re using a space heater or not, these products provide peace of mind. The NFPA has tips on installation of both carbon monoxide and smoke detectors. Test them regularly to ensure they’re operating properly.

When purchasing a space heater, there are a few common styles to choose from: convection, radiant, and conductive.

Convection space heaters

Convection space heaters produce heat as air passes over a heating element. They slowly create long-lasting heat. Convection heaters offer quiet operation and may have a fan to circulate heat.

Radiant space heaters

Radiant space heaters pass liquid through a system of pipes to generate warmth. They are a great option for quick heating.

Conductive space heaters

Conductive space heaters use electricity to produce heat via heating elements (usually metal coils). They create warmth by having direct contact with another object or person. For example, heated seats in a vehicle are conductive heat.

The safest space heaters

We’ve combed through expert and customer reviews to choose the following space heaters with notable safety features.

Safest space heater overall

The Vornado MVH Vortex heats your room safely and efficiently. It has a number of safety features, including a cool-touch exterior and automatic shut-off for overheating and tip-overs.

The MVH Vortex has three heat settings and a built-in thermostat. You can consistently keep your room at the temperature most comfortable for you.

Vornado products use “vortex action” to spread heat throughout a space. That’s how this relatively small space heater packs enough power to warm a whole room.

We appreciate this safe space heater’s five-year warranty. The Vornado customer service team is based in the United States, so any service needs can be addressed rapidly and without hassle.

Buy on Amazon

9.2” x 10.4” x 10.6”

Electric, convection

$69.99

Safest space heater for a large room

The Dr. Infrared DR988 is our pick for safely heating a large room. It has overheat and tip-over protection. It’s cool to touch and UL-certified for safety testing.

In addition to its safety features, the Dr. Infrared DR988 has a number of other useful elements. It operates as a humidifier and a fan in addition to its heating capabilities. It comes with a remote control for convenience. And it has a timer for automatic shut-off.

We like that this space heater has low and high heat settings in addition to eco and sleep modes. Its internal thermostat allows you to precisely choose the temperature you desire.

The DR988 operates quietly. Though it’s large compared to other space heaters, it’s easy to move with rolling casters.

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16” x 11” x 16”

Electric, convection

$111.82

Safest propane space heater

The Mr. Heater F232000 is a propane heater designed for safe indoor and outdoor use. If you choose to use it indoors, ensure your room is ventilated and use a carbon monoxide detector.

Many people prefer to use propane heaters because they heat more efficiently than their electric counterparts. Overall, propane heat is less expensive and burns cleaner, leaving less of an impact on the environment.

We like the heavy-duty grill on the F232000, protecting the heating mechanism. This propane heater will automatically shut off if it detects low oxygen levels, its pilot light goes out, or it tips over.

This Mr. Heater space heater is lightweight and easy to move, with a sturdy handle. It’s an especially good option for construction sites or rustic locations lacking electricity.

Buy on Amazon

7.7” x 13.4” x 15”

Gas, radiant

$86.90

Most aesthetic safe space heater

The Honeywell UberHeat is an attractive and safe space heater designed for small spaces. This little heater produces a surprising amount of heat for its size. 

From a safety perspective, it has solid features, including a cool-touch exterior, automatic overheat shutoff, a tip-over switch, and non-slip rubber feet.

The UberHeat has two heat modes and a programmable thermostat, allowing you to keep your space at the precise temperature of your choice.

This space heater has a simple, modern look that fits well with many decor styles. However, it is a bit noisier than other comparable heaters, so it’s not ideal for bedroom use.

Buy on Amazon

8” x 5.8” x 9”

Electric, convection

Most pet-safe space heater

The De’Longhi Mica Thermic Panel Heater is perfect for pet owners. Its slim form can mount to the wall, so you won’t need to worry about your pets knocking it over or brushing against it. If you prefer to use it on the floor, it comes with a rolling stand. 

This De’Longhi space heater has a thermal cut-off to prevent overheating and an internal tip-over switch in case its mount becomes unstable. It also has caution indicator lights to notify you of potential safety issues.

With two settings, you can choose the level of heat required in your space. Additionally, this heater has anti-freeze capabilities, which turn on automatically to prevent your pipes from freezing.

Though the De’Longhi Mica puts out a powerful stream of heat, the front doesn’t become too hot to touch (though it does get warm). You can let your fur babies gather around it for a nap to warm up on cold days without any safety concerns.

Buy on Amazon

27” x 10” x 22” inches (thinner with casters removed for wall mount)

Electric, radiant

Safest space heaters for a baby’s room

Maintaining a safe temperature in your baby’s room is important. Babies can’t effectively regulate their body temperatures, and overheating is linked to sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).  

Experts say the ideal temperature for a baby’s room is between 68℉ and 72℉. If you can’t maintain that temperature in your home, consult your pediatrician for advice on the best safe space heater for your baby’s room.

The bottom line on space heater safety

Before investing in a space heater, make sure it has safety features such as overheat protection and a tip-over switch.

Always follow the directions and refer to any safety notices or warning labels on the heater itself.

With proper usage, any high-quality space heater should safely heat your space throughout the winter.

The Best Space Heaters Tested in 2023

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Photo: Stacey L. Nash

Ever-rising utility costs can make heating an entire house prohibitively pricey. To save money but still keep occupied areas comfortable—say, the living room during a movie marathon—many renters and homeowners take advantage of space heaters.

Today’s models offer basic heating features at more affordable prices, newer bells and whistles, and all-important, upgraded safety features. The best space heater for any particular area will depend on the room’s size, the type of heater, and whether it will be used in a home with children and/or pets. Ahead, learn how to navigate all of the market options, and find out why the models below are among the best space heaters available.

We put these space heaters to the test in a hands-on review process. Testing took place in the home, in real-life scenarios to put performance and safety features on the spot. It also gave us an inside look at how their features function over time.

1. BEST OVERALL: GiveBest Portable Electric Space Heater
2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Amazon Basics 1500-Watt Oscillating Ceramic Heater
3. UPGRADE PICK: AirNmore Comfort Deluxe Infrared Space Heater
4. DESIGN PICK: Lasko Designer Series Electric Ceramic Space Heater
5. BEST FOR TEMP CONSISTENCY: De’Longhi Dragon Oil-Filled Digital Space Heater
6. BEST FOR LARGE ROOMS: Dr. Infrared Heater 1500- Watt Portable Space Heater
7. BEST FOR BATHROOMS: Vornado Vh20 Vortex Heater with Adjustable Thermostat

Photo: Stacey L. Nash

Before You Buy a Space Heater

A space heater can be a welcome source of supplemental warmth in a chilly room, especially if it also saves money on utility costs by allowing the user to turn the HVAC thermostat down a few degrees. Keep in mind that space heaters get very hot and, if used carelessly, they can lead to a house fire. Before shopping for a space heater, it’s a good idea for shoppers to call their homeowners insurance agent, as some insurance policies will not cover damages from a fire caused by a space heater.

How We Tested the Best Space Heaters

We tested these space heaters in person, in real-world situations. They were all tested in a home office setting where the office was 150 to 200 square feet in size. One of the test offices also had large windows, so the room temperature fluctuated more often. We also tried them on different surfaces, from plush carpet to bare floors.

For models with a digital display, we set the thermostat between 70 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit to see how well the space heater kept a consistent room temperature. From there, we made adjustments to settings (low and high), timers, and safety features. For example, we tipped over every single space heater to make sure it turned off.

Models designed to turn on and off based on the thermostat were left running to see how they performed over time. Some stayed in standby mode for hours without turning on because a furnace kept the room at temperature. We wanted to make sure they wouldn’t turn on if it wasn’t necessary. Ease of use was also a consideration, and models with remote controls or intuitive designs got higher marks from us.

Our Top Picks

To qualify as a top pick, a space heater needed to be powerful enough to heat the intended room and include safety features that would turn the unit off if it falls over. The following models are suited to various heating needs, and any one of them might well serve a variety of situations.

Photo: amazon.com

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Quiet operation and the ability to quickly heat rooms as large as 200 square feet make this electric heater from GiveBest a wise choice for warming up. The ceramic space heater has an adjustable thermostat as well as both overheat shutoff and tip-over shutoff for safety. It runs quietly so as not to distract from activities like reading, watching TV, and conversation. It’s 10.2 inches tall, weighs 3.2 pounds, and features an easy-carry handle for moving from room to room as needed.

The GiveBest was an unassuming space heater during testing, and it doesn’t have the flashiest design or features. However, there are a few extra settings like the two heat settings and a fan and the built-in thermostat that made it a pleasure to use. We tested it in an approximately 200-square-foot home office, and it heated the room without a problem. When temps were cold, we bumped it up to the high-heat setting, but most of the time, the low setting kept it comfortable when temps were around 50 degrees Fahrenheit to 60 degrees Fahrenheit in the rest of the home.

The only thing we would have liked to see was a display that showed the exact setting of the thermostat. We pretty much guessed at the temperature setting, but if the air temperature went above the mystery temperature, the GiveBest turned itself off. It also turns off if kicked over, which is a bonus for homes with kids or pets. However, the tilt safety feature did not allow the heater to turn on when placed in plush carpet. It needed a flatter surface, or the trigger mechanism wasn’t depressed enough to allow the heater to turn on.

Overall, this model balances design, heating efficiency, and price for a portable heater that will work in most small spaces plus provide portability if it’s needed elsewhere.

Product Specs

• Watts: 1,500
• Weight: 3. 2 pounds
• Dimensions: 10.2 inches tall by 7.9 inches wide by 6.2 inches deep

Pros

• This model features an automatic shutoff for overheating and tilt
• Lightweight and simple to use; highly portable and easy to store
• Versatile pick, with 2 heat settings and a fan setting for ventilation

Cons

• Does not include a display to show exact thermostat temperature
• Safety feature prevented it from turning on while on plush carpet

Get the GiveBest space heater at Amazon.

Photo: amazon.com

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For a reasonable price, this oscillating heater provides 1,500 watts of heat, enough to keep a 150-square-foot room warm and cozy. It features three power outputs (low, high, and fan only), plus tip-over shutoff for safety should it inadvertently get knocked over. There’s a simple on/off switch for easy operation and a thermostat dial that allows the user to select the desired temperature. After the user sets the thermostat, the heater will turn itself on and off to maintain the selected temperature. It weighs a mere 3.2 pounds and boasts a handle on the back for easy toting from room to room.

While this simple heater did well during testing, it doesn’t have any features that make it stand out. The basic heat functions worked well, and the adjustable thermostat triggered an automatic shutoff. However, it could use a display to show the exact temperature setting. The current variable thermostat leaves the user guessing as to the temperature they’re choosing. Overall, it’s lightweight, portable, and made quick work of heating a 150-square-foot office.

Product Specs

• Watts: 1,500
• Weight: 3.2 pounds
• Dimensions: 10.04 inches tall by 6.34 inches wide by 7.52 inches deep

Pros

• Lightweight and easy to set up and adjust; controls are simple and intuitive
• This space heater’s oscillating feature does a good job distributing heat throughout the room
• Small and compact design makes it easy to store when not in use

Cons

• Does not include a display to show exact thermostat setting

Get the Amazon Basics space heater at Amazon.

Photo: amazon.com

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For warmth and peace of mind, consider the ample safety features of the AirNmore Comfort Deluxe infrared space heater. Though it will heat a room up to 150 square feet, its outer casing will remain cool to the touch, which is crucial for homes with kids and pets. The tip-over safety function shuts the unit off if it gets knocked over, but since it weighs 22 pounds, this is a less likely scenario than with some smaller models. A 14-gauge cord with a three-prong heater plug reduces the risk of the cord melting from overheating.

The power level is adjustable, and the heater has a built-in thermostat to maintain a consistent temperature. A removable, washable filter prevents dust from recirculating in the air. Users might mistake this space heater for an old-time radio; it definitely looks more design-friendly than some other more utilitarian models. We loved this heater in testing, although with infrared heaters, users have to direct the heat toward themselves. It’s a penetrating heat, but only if it hits the body.

A tiny remote control let us change modes (low or high) and temperatures while working at a desk, and we liked that we could precisely adjust the temperature setting and see it on the display. The downside with this AirNmore space heater is its size. It’s big and takes up a lot of room while heating up a relatively small 150-square-foot space. However, the casters make moving this behemoth out of the way when not in use fairly easy.

Product Specs

• Watts: 1,500
• Weight: 22 pounds
• Dimensions: 16.75 inches tall by 13 inches wide by 16.5 inches deep

Pros

• Onboard cord storage and four casters; maneuverable and allows for neat storage
• Comfortable penetrating heat; great for heating rooms during cold winter months
• Includes particle filter for cleaner air; ideal for sensitive users

Cons

• Large size makes this less of an inconspicuous space heater

Get the AirNMore space heater at Amazon.

Photo: amazon.com

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This electric ceramic space heater from Lasko’s designer series has smooth contours and rests on an attractive base, making it look more like a work of art than a space heater. Appearance aside, it effectively heats rooms up to 150 square feet by oscillating smoothly from side to side for uniform heat distribution. Switch between its adjustable heat settings via the remote; the Lasko can even be programmed in advance to turn on and off when desired. This handsome space heater also features a safety shutoff in case the unit tips over.

This beauty was a pleasant surprise during testing because it cranks out the heat. It may be designed to heat 150-square-foot spaces, but it can do more than that with the heat it puts out. The oscillating setting spread the heat far and wide, quickly heating our 200-square-foot test space (another office) to perfection. We liked that we could pick the temperature setting, though it only goes in 5-degree increments. Plus, it comes with a timer that automatically turns the unit off after 1, 2, or 4 hours. With that set, we didn’t worry about leaving it on while we were away.

Once the room reaches the set temperature, this space heater automatically shuts off. However, we noticed that if the temperature began to fall, it didn’t automatically turn back on. But we could turn it back on using the remote, so no one actually had to get out of their chair. This model might have made us a little lazy.

Product Specs

• Watts: 1,500
• Weight: 6.89 pounds
• Dimensions: 16 inches tall by 11 inches wide by 11 inches deep

Pros

• Attractive design that doesn’t look like a heater; blends in well
• 3 automatic timer settings and automatic shutoff for added peace of mind
• Comes with a handy remote control to adjust any of the settings
• Warms a room fairly quickly; ideal for medium-size rooms

Cons

• Shuts off when desired temp is reached; has to be turned on again

Get the Lasko space heater at Amazon, The Home Depot, Best Buy, Staples, or Lasko.

Photo: lowes.com

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The permanently sealed oil reservoir of the De’Longhi Dragon digital space heater comes filled with oil and never needs refilling, as the oil level is never reduced and never runs out. At 1,500 watts, this radiator provides soothing warmth in rooms up to 150 square feet. An adjustable thermostat keeps the room at a consistent temperature, and users can select an efficient eco mode to optimize energy consumption.

A safety shut-off feature keeps the unit from overheating, while insulated wiring and reinforced connections offer additional safety. Its low-surface-temperature case reduces the risk of accidental burns. Weighing a substantial 26.6 pounds, it comes with wheels to make relocation easier.

This large heater doesn’t blow heat at users like many of the other models. Radiant heat permeates the room, slowly raising the temperature. The De’Longhi kept a 150-square-foot office comfortable and was easy to leave on all day because it turned on and off as the temperature fluctuated. The controls took a little more work to understand, but it was a set-it-and-forget-it space heater once we figured it out. It’s quiet and only reminds users it’s there with the clicks and pops of its normal operation.

Overall, this model’s slow, quiet heat was comfortable and less noticeable than that of models with a fan. The downside was that its tall, narrow design can make it more susceptible to tipping over.

Product Specs

• Watts: 1,500
• Weight: 26.6 pounds
• Dimensions: 26.1 inches tall by 16.4 inches wide by 10.3 inches deep

Pros

• Quiet operation with no distracting, loud fans blowing during use
• Automatically turned on and off based on the thermostat setting
• Makes room temperature feel comfortable without the need to have a fan blowing

Cons

• Can be quite slow to heat the space; needs to be turned on in advance
• Heavy and difficult to move around despite being on wheels
• Tall, narrow design makes it more susceptible to tipping over

Get the De’Longhi space heater at Lowe’s.

Photo: amazon.com

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This 1,500-watt portable space heater from Dr. Infrared Heater looks like a classic radio but runs like the high-tech space heater that it is. Emitting only 39 decibels, this infrared heater features quiet air circulation that moves the heat through large spaces. We tested it in a 200-square-foot office, and this space heater made quick work of warming it. Infrared heaters don’t heat the air; instead, they heat objects. This heater’s quiet fan made it feel like the heat permeated farther and made a difference in overall room temperature.

It’s also packed with features including standby, eco, low, and high power modes. The digital display shows the thermostat’s setting, which makes it easy to make adjustments based on comfort levels.

We’re big fans of remote controls. This model’s remote control allowed us to make comfort adjustments without getting out of our office chair. We appreciated that we could leave it on all day while we worked, and it would turn on and off as needed. There’s also an adjustable timer, which can go up to 12 hours before automatically shutting off the heater.

Overall, it’s a nice-looking heater that can handle spaces up to about 850 square feet. It’s not the most mobile unit, weighing 24 pounds, but it does have casters for easier mobility.

Product Specs

• Watts: 1,500
• Weight: 24 pounds
• Dimensions: 15 inches tall by 13 inches wide by 12 inches deep

Pros

• Puts out fast, infrared heat; ideal for a quick blast of heat
• Quiet fan helps circulate heat without too much noise disturbance
• Control panel features thermostat adjustability and setting options
• Remote control lets users fine-tune without getting out of chair

Cons

• At 24 pounds, this unit is quite heavy and cumbersome to move around

Get the Dr. Infrared Heater space heater at Amazon, Lowe’s, The Home Depot, or Dr. Heater.

Photo: amazon.com

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A set of three safety features provides extra security in a bathroom setting. The Vornado’s cool-touch exterior, heat detection, and tilt shutoff create a safer heater for a room where it could easily get knocked over. The heat detection feature turns the heater off if a towel or clothing falls on top of the heater. Among its other features, it has an adjustable thermostat, though there’s no display to show users the exact temperature and two heat settings—low or high.

The Vornado’s wide base made it more stable than similar space heaters we tested. When that’s coupled with the three safety features, it’s made for places (or homes) where blankets, towels, and clothes could end up on top of the heater, or pets and kids might knock it over. This model moved air beautifully and heated our office space quickly.

The only thing we felt was missing was a display so we could have seen the precise temperature setting rather than guessing with the adjustable thermostat.

Product Specs

• Watts: 1,500
• Weight: 5.08 pounds
• Dimensions: 12 inches tall by 9.25 inches wide by 11.63 inches deep

Pros

• Built with 3 safety features for added peace of mind and safe usage
• Wide base provides more stability; less likely to tip over
• Vortex action moves a lot of air through the room; good for larger rooms

Cons

• Cannot see the precise temperature setting; can be a bit of guesswork to begin with

Get the Vornado space heater at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Target.

Also Tested

The Lasko Ceramic Adjustable Thermostat Space Heaters performed well in many respects. It has an adjustable thermostat, 11 heat settings, a cool-touch exterior, and a compact design. What it doesn’t have is an automatic tilt shut-off feature. That means if it gets knocked over, it keeps running. In a home with pets, kids, and, honestly, most adults, it could keep running face down, posing a fire hazard. For that reason, it didn’t make our list of top picks.

What to Consider When Choosing the Best Space Heater

A small space heater might be suitable under a desk or next to a lounge chair, but it likely won’t make a dent in a sizable chilly room. A space heater’s size should suit the room that it will warm and should, of course, be as safe as possible.

Types of Space Heaters

For those just starting to shop for a space heater, it might come as a surprise to find so many different types from which to choose. Each type has its pros and cons, and not all space heaters are suitable for all rooms and situations.

Fan Space Heaters

Fan space heaters function by heating the air around an electric coil or wire elements and then dispersing the heat with a fan. They are among the least expensive models but do not offer the same efficiency as other types. Therefore, fan heaters are best suited to rooms without drafts or for warming a small space quickly.

Convection Space Heaters

Convection space heaters warm air over ceramic plates or disks and allow it to radiate warmth into the room. Some models do include fans for quicker heat dispersal and, like conventional fan heaters, they work best in rooms without drafts. Convection heaters come in compact or tower models, often with exterior cases that are cooler to the touch. Prices vary depending on wattage and added features.

Infrared Space Heaters

Infrared space heaters are among the quietest options for the home. They generate heat quickly by radiating heat to the objects—including people—in front of them. As opposed to heating the air in the room, this type of heater heats the user, making it a good choice for use in drafty rooms. All that’s needed is for the user to aim it directly at where they’re sitting.

Oil-Filled Space Heaters

Oil-filled space heaters (another type of radiant heater) are also a quiet option. Because they are capable of putting off an abundance of heat while using less electricity than fan-type models, these heaters are well suited to larger rooms. Due to the weight of the oil and the steel casing, these heaters are relatively heavy, but many come with wheels to make relocating easier. Oil-filled space heaters take a while to heat up, but they radiate continuously once they do.

Micathermic Space Heaters

Micathermic space heaters combine convection and radiant heating processes. Designed as a panel to stand or hang on a wall like a piece of artwork, they create a welcoming ambience for the senses by mimicking the look of a real fire and radiating heat. Some models include fans for greater efficiency and remote controls for extra convenience. These advanced heaters vary widely in price.

Safety

Space heaters are a leading cause of house fires, so it’s smart to pick one that boasts additional safety features to reduce risk. Manufacturers have introduced automatic shutoffs that kick in when a unit overheats or gets inadvertently knocked over. In addition, many have exterior cases that keep units cool to the touch at all times. Some models even come equipped with motion sensors that automatically turn the heater off when a pet or child comes too close. For extra peace of mind when purchasing, look for the letters NRTL on the space heater packaging, which indicates that the model has been tested for safety by the Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory.

Your Heating Needs

As a general rule of thumb, select a space heater that will produce 10 watts of power for every square foot. For instance, to heat a 10-by-12-foot room, a shopper would need to purchase a 1,200-watt space heater. A very large room may require more than one space heater to maintain a comfortable temperature throughout.

Other factors that affect a space heater’s efficiency include ceiling height, the insulating factor of the exterior walls, the number of windows, and the available outlets. While high-wattage heaters offer more heat than lower-wattage models, they’re limited to the capacity of the electrical outlet; a home’s standard 110-volt electrical outlet can only provide 1,500 watts of power, so that must be the wattage cap for any machine plugged into it.

Energy Efficiency 

One of the main reasons for using a space heater is to save on energy costs. But unlike many other appliances, space heaters do not require energy testing by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), nor does the agency issue Energy Star ratings for them, so those who are serious about saving should opt for the most efficient type.

Oil-filled space heaters are among the most efficient because they heat the oil and the metal casing, gradually dispersing radiant warmth into the room. Once the oil reaches the desired temperature, less energy is needed to maintain that temperature. Even after an oil-filled heater is turned off, it will continue to radiate heat for up to 30 minutes or more. Next in energy efficiency are infrared space heaters, which use up to 10 percent less energy than space heaters with coils and fans.

Noise Level 

For the most part, space heaters are among the quietest of all small appliances. Space heaters that use radiant heat, either infrared or oil-filled, make virtually no noise. Traditional space heaters with fans will emit an average of 35 to 45 decibels of sound, approximately the same as soft indoor conversation (which could be suitable as a white noise machine).

The Advantages of Owning the Best Space Heater

• A good space heater will keep a room’s occupants warm and comfortable, even if the rest of the house is chilly.
• Homeowners and renters can save on heating costs by using a space heater in one room and lowering the thermostat for the rest of the house.
• Many of today’s space heaters come with built-in thermostats, enabling them to keep the room at a consistent and cozy temp.
• Space heaters are portable and can be moved from room to room as necessary.

Tips for Using a Space Heater

Homeowners and renters can save on utility costs by using a space heater in one or more rooms rather than heating the entire home. For the toastiest—and safest—results, check out these useful tips.

• Maintain a 3-foot safety area around the space heater, and do not allow blankets, furniture, draperies, children, or pets within this zone.
• Install both carbon monoxide detectors and smoke alarms in the home when using space heaters, and test them monthly to ensure the batteries and the detectors are working.
• For safety’s sake, it’s important for users to turn off the space heater when leaving the room or going to bed. The exception to this rule is an oil-filled radiant heater, which may be left running. However, consult the owner’s manual, and follow all other safety precautions.
• Never use an extension cord with a space heater. Household extension cords are often not heavy-duty enough to handle the amount of electricity a space heater draws during operation.
• Remember to close the door in the room being heated to keep that toastiness from escaping to hallways and unoccupied areas.

FAQs

The best space heater will keep folks warm and safe when manufacturer’s guidelines are followed. For more information on space heaters, see the answers to these common questions.

Q. Is it OK to have a space heater on all night?

Most space heaters should be turned off at night and when you leave a room. The exception is an oil-filled radiating space heater, which can be left on. However, make certain not to leave anything flammable within 3 feet of the radiator.

Q. What space heaters use the least electricity?

Oil-filled radiant heaters use the least amount of electricity because once they heat up, it takes very little energy to keep them warm. Plus, they will radiate heat for up to 30 minutes or more after they’ve been turned off.

Q. What is the safest type of space heater?

The safest space heater is one that will automatically shut off if it overheats or if it accidentally tips over.

Why Trust Bob Vila

Bob Vila has been America’s Handyman since 1979. As the host of beloved and groundbreaking TV series including “This Old House” and “Bob Vila’s Home Again,” he popularized and became synonymous with “do-it-yourself” home improvement.

Over the course of his decades-long career, Bob Vila has helped millions of people build, renovate, repair, and live better each day—a tradition that continues today with expert yet accessible home advice. The Bob Vila team distills need-to-know information into project tutorials, maintenance guides, tool 101s, and more. These home and garden experts then thoroughly research, vet, and recommend products that support homeowners, renters, DIYers, and professionals in their to-do lists.

Meet the Tester

Stacey L. Nash is a writer and product tester with a background in home and garden products. She’s researched and tested home products for over 5 years. That research is coupled with the practical experience that comes from living life with four kids and a DIY husband on 12 acres that require clearing and upkeep. Now she tests and writes about home appliances, kitchen tools, lighting, cleaning products, and garden tools.

Additional research provided by Glenda Taylor.

Choosing a heater for the home: a complete guide – Ferra.ru

Household appliances behind the heater. The seller advised her to buy something really warm, but she – the artist – chose a beautiful fireplace that “shines, but does not heat.” The result was bronchitis, which brought all the heroes “together” and led to a happy ending. But you and I are not in a romance. We need to really warm up, which means choosing the right heater.

How to calculate the required heater output?

Usually the choice begins with the type of heater – oil, fan heater, infrared, etc. , but still, first you need to understand what area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe room needs to be heated. We use the method recommended by many heater manufacturers (suitable for heated rooms and for all types of heaters except infrared):

1. multiply the area in square meters by the height of the walls in meters. For example, 15 m² * 2.7 m – we get 40.5 m³. This is the volume of the room.
2. we divide the volume by 30 – this is the coefficient calculated by specialists. We get the recommended heater power in kilowatts – 1.35 kW.

There is an even simpler way: approximately 100 W per 1 m² is required, but provided that the ceilings are not higher than 3 m.

If the heater is used in an unheated room, then another 20-30% can be added to the calculated power. The same should be done if the room is located in a deliberately cold part of the building: in a corner room, on the north side, if there are gaps in the windows or walls, etc.

For infrared heaters, the required power is calculated differently because they are more economical. There is no ready-made formula: the efficiency of the device largely depends on how many people and objects will be in the room, but 100 W per m² is the maximum, not the minimum, for an infrared heater. At least 10 times less.

Common areas: safety and essentials

Safety is everything for the heater. Therefore, automatic shutdown in case of overheating and a tilt sensor for automatic shutdown in case of tipping over are absolutely necessary. Auto-shutdown before overheating is either a temperature sensor that opens the electrical circuit when the heating element reaches a certain maximum, or an outlet air overheating sensor: if the air outlets are blocked (the towel dries on them, despite prohibitions), then the device will turn off. Another important function is the presence of an anti-freeze mode, when the heater maintains a room temperature of about 5-7 degrees Celsius. This is not enough for a person, but it prevents freezing of water pipes, central heating pipes (when it is turned off), sewers, cellars, etc. This function is not available in inexpensive fan heaters, but in convectors and oil heaters, its presence is essential. Everything else – the type of control (electronic or mechanical), display, timer, number of sections (for oil appliances), remote control, the possibility of programming, the presence or absence of a built-in humidifier, ionizer or dust filter – questions of need for a particular user and willingness to pay for the extra function.

There is one more nuance: if the heater is needed for use in a bathroom, bath, basement, where condensation often occurs, then it is better to choose a model with a moisture-proof housing.

Electronic or mechanical control?

This is important if the accuracy of temperature setting is important for you: for heaters with “mechanics”, the “step” can be from 5 to 10-20 degrees, for devices with electronic control everything is accurate – usually up to one degree. Of course, electronic control expands the possibilities: for example, you can set the timer not only to turn off, but also to turn on, you can interact with the heater at a distance (via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi), you can see all the parameters of the device on the display (of course, everything depends from the model), some models provide automatic programs and programming – setting the temperature and the time to turn on and off by day and hour.

Types of heaters according to the principle of operation (method of heat transfer)

Oil-filled or oil heaters: round-the-clock assistants

Everything is said in the name: inside its hermetic metal case there is mineral oil, it is heated with a heating element and is an intermediary in heat exchange: the body , consisting of several sections, heats up and heats the air in the room. If the oil heater has “ribs”, then the heat exchange area is larger, therefore, the air is heated faster.

Oil heaters are described as “burning” the oxygen in the room. We are talking about an increase in carbon dioxide in the air due to the combustion of dust (the surface of oil heaters at the maximum mode warms up quite decently). If the device is not taken care of, then there will be less oxygen, and the smell of burning dust will appear. Therefore, when buying, it is important to evaluate how easy or difficult it will be to get to every corner of the device. Smooth and ribless ones seem to be easier to clean, but they tend to have thin crevices that are difficult to get close to.

Among the advantages of oil heaters is fire safety. These devices can be left for the whole day and at night, they turn off on their own when the air in the room or they themselves heat up to a predetermined level. Some models are equipped with built-in fans – for forced air circulation and rapid distribution of heat in the room. Another advantage of oil heaters is a prolonged action: when the device is turned off, the body does not cool down immediately and heat remains in the room for some time. The disadvantages usually include bulkiness, high power consumption and the very “burning of oxygen”.

Convectors: uniformity and again uniformity

The operation of devices of this type is based on convection: air enters the heater from below, inside the body it passes through a heating element (metal, ceramic or infrared) and, already warmed up, is released through the “slots” in the upper parts of the heater body. The body walls do not heat up above 60°C (it is impossible to get burned!), and, in fact, they act as a chimney with draft, and the slots in the upper part of the body are angled to improve aerodynamics (many people think that fans are used in convectors, although this is rare: just warm air has a lower density and rises itself).

Convectors use heaters of different types (more on that below), and the appliances themselves can be made of metal or glass ceramics (the latter helps to distribute heat faster and more evenly, but above all, it is a design decision: glass ceramic appliances look spectacular and stylish).

Convectors are gaining popularity due to the combination of the advantages of an oil heater (can be used around the clock) and a fan heater (warm air movement). The main advantage of convectors is a fairly fast uniform heating of the room. In addition, the convectors are quite light and mobile, as they have a thin body, most modern models can be hung on the wall – mounting accessories are included in the kit, there are also skirting convectors that are installed on the walls close to the floor. Electronic filling and capabilities are very different: from elementary ones (a thermostat to set the temperature in the room, an on and off timer) to remote control from mobile devices and the ability to integrate into smart home systems. Convectors can be networked by installing them in all rooms, but it is very, very expensive to heat a house with electricity, in addition, the wiring must be designed for such a load.

The most interesting type of convectors is infrared, which combines the advantages of convectors and infrared heaters. The air in the room is heated by convection, as well as by heating objects in the area of ​​​​the radiation of an infrared heater (more on “infrared” below). Convective infrared convectors are much more economical than conventional ones.

Fan heaters, or fan heaters: heating with a sight

Large and small, powerful and not very powerful, they work like this: they drive air through the heating element with the help of a fan. As a rule, it makes sense to buy a fan heater for targeted heating of a certain area: for example, a work or sleeping place, a children’s corner, a grandmother’s favorite chair. The fan heater does not have a heated surface – a screen, panels that are involved in space heating. Devices of this type are not designed for uniform stable round-the-clock maintenance of heat, but they are indispensable when you need to warm up or warm up a small room quickly. A good fan heater can rotate the body to direct warm air in different directions, and its grilles that cover the blades should be removed for easy cleaning. Advanced models have a temperature controller, thermostat and timer. The disadvantages of fan heaters are as follows: they are quite gluttonous in terms of electricity, and the effect of them quickly “evaporates” if the device is turned off, and they are also noisy during operation. Dust, getting on the heating element (as a rule, it is closed only by a grate), heats up and burns. But there are also pluses. Fan heaters are mobile – they are either transported on wheels or carried by the handle, they can operate in the mode of a conventional fan, without heating. So they will come in handy in the summer, in the heat. If we talk about heating elements of thermal fans, then ceramic-coated heating elements are preferable, they distribute heat more evenly and are more economical.

Heat guns: don’t hit the sparrows with them

Also a kind of fan heaters, only more powerful, stronger (required in a metal case), and are designed to heat large rooms that need a special approach: for example, garages, outdoor pavilions , cellars. If you have a large cold room, and you need to warm it up quickly, a heat gun will do. But get ready to pay the bills: she will eat a lot of electricity, the air dries, the dust on her heating elements burns. It makes no sense to buy a heat gun for an apartment – you get shooting “from a cannon at sparrows.”

It is good if a fan or heat gun has a dust filter: it prevents dust from getting on the heating element, which means that there will be less consequences from its combustion (an increase in the amount of carbon dioxide in the air, an unpleasant smell).

Infrared heaters: not warm the air, but … the closet?

They differ in an unusual way of heat transfer: from a heater to … objects that, when heated, transfer heat to the air. That is, IR heaters do not heat the air, but the floor, ceiling, walls, furniture. That is why IR heaters are often used on the street – in open cafes, in the country to heat pavilions, that is, where it is pointless to heat the air – the heat will leak anyway. In apartments, infrared convection heaters are more often used – they were mentioned above, this is one of the best options. IR for an apartment – as a rule, floor, but on the street or in semi-enclosed rooms, wall and ceiling are used.

Air curtains – against heat leakage

Everything is simple here: the device gives out a directed stream of warm air, which “blocks” a door or window opening. The use of a thermal curtain prevents heat leakage through windows, doors, cracks. The length of the device should approximately correspond to the width of the opening, and the power should be higher, the higher the opening. If the room is small (for example, 10-12 m), then the thermal curtain is also suitable for heating. When choosing and installing a thermal air curtain, the parameter of the maximum installation height must be taken into account. For household models, the norm is 2.7-3 m, which corresponds to the height of the doorways of most ordinary rooms. If the ceilings are high or the curtain is needed for non-residential premises, then the maximum installation height should be more than 3 m.

Electric fireplaces: what is behind the painted hearth?

If the heroine of the novel is unlucky, this does not mean that there are no worthy fireplaces: they may well heat a room of 18-20 m². But they are not bought for this, but for beauty. Therefore, fireplaces still stand apart among heaters.

Most models (eg Electrolux, Dimplex) work as hybrids of radiators and fan heaters. Special reflectors redirect heat from the heating elements into the room, and the fan accelerates the warm air around the room. Or warm air is directed to the floor in front of the appliance, and from there it rises and spreads throughout the room. The power of electric fireplaces is from 500 to 2000-2500 W, as a rule, two or three power modes are provided when working with heating or fine-tuning the temperature. In the decorative flame mode without heating, fireplaces consume a little – up to 100 W, and they can deliver a lot of pleasure: the flame can tremble, shimmer, flow, flash, the brightness can be adjusted. Manufacturers of electric fireplaces compete mainly in improving visual effects: who has more realistic firewood, who has fire, who has ash. A huge role is played by “facing”: here you have wood, and brick, and glass, and metal – hi-tech style fireplaces are very popular. Often a fireplace can be “assembled” on its own: separately choose a “facing” and separately – a “firebox”. There are models that imitate the smell of burning wood and their crackling, many advanced fireplaces have air purifiers.

Fireplaces differ in the installation method – they can be built-in and free-standing, among which there are corner models. A special article is hearth fireplaces. It’s hard to describe, you have to see it! They are expensive and, of course, belong to luxury items.

Types of heating elements: ceramics steers, and the spiral burns

In infrared heaters

Quartz glass tubes with vacuum and tungsten filaments inside (quartz heaters are quite economical, silent, excellent heat conductors, but the tubes themselves are fragile, although covered with gratings , so you can not drop the device).

Halogen heaters (the vacuum inside the tube or flask is filled with an inert gas, the tungsten filament heats up faster and to higher temperatures than in tubes without gas. The disadvantage is the same – fragility).
Carbon heaters differ from the previous two in that the filament is not made of tungsten, but carbon fiber, the thermal conductivity of which is higher. The tubes are the same – quartz, inside the same vacuum. Carbon heaters are super durable, economical, heat up and cool down quickly. Of the minuses: the same fragility + high cost.

Micathermic heaters made of plates coated with artificial mica – very economical, silent, safe (the body of the device does not heat up above 60 °C). Often used in convectors, in general, experts believe that the future belongs to them.

In oil heaters and convectors

Here you can find the usual heating elements – not so economical, of course.

Needle belt . There is something zoological in the name, although it is simpler than a living organism: a narrow dielectric plate with loops of chromium-nickel wire sticking out of it. It is cheap, thermal inertia is extremely low (heating and cooling in seconds), heating temperature is high. There is a drawback, and a big one: fragility. Most manufacturers refuse this type of heating element.

Tubular . This is a classic: a thread of chromium and nickel runs inside the tube, and aluminum plates can still go along its length, enhancing heat transfer (this is especially common in convectors). A tubular heating element can be heard: it crackles due to the difference in thermal expansion of the materials used. Otherwise, there are no special claims to him.

Monolithic . All the same chrome-nickel filament and dielectric are in a cast aluminum case with ribbed plates that form one whole with the case. Monolithic heating elements do not crack, they are reliable, they work practically without heat loss – in a word, they are optimal if the soul lies precisely with the heating element.

In fan heaters and heat guns

They are still used here and one would like to say “good old” electric spirals, but this is wrong: although they are old, they are not good. They heat up quickly and to huge values ​​(for example, 700-800 ° C), but for the same reason they burn dust: a smell appears, the air dries out. Well, the energy consumption is decent.

Ceramic heating elements are preferred – this is the next generation. Plates covered with ceramics have a large area, which means good heat transfer, and they do not need heating to such hellish temperatures. They are more economical, distribute heat more evenly, dry the air less.

Author: Polina Strizhak

Tags:

#how to choose 5 ,

#convector

,

#heater

Instructions for Electric heaters Rolsen

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Rolsen ceramic heaters of the RCH-2509 series. User manual.

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Rolsen ceramic heaters of the RTH-2501 series. Instructions for installation and operation.

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Rolsen ceramic heaters of the RTH-2606RT series. User manual.

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Rolsen electric heaters of the RCE-1001E / 1501E / 2001E, RCE-1001M / 1501M / 2001M series of convector type. User manual.

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Rolsen convectors of the RCE-1000E / RCE-1500E / RCE-2000E series. User manual.

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Rolsen oil-filled heaters of the ROH-D5 / ROH-D7 / ROH-D9 / ROH-D11 series of radiator type. User manual.

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Rolsen oil-filled heaters of the ROH-G5 / ROH-G7 / ROH-G9 / ROH-G12 series. User manual.

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Rolsen oil-filled heaters of the ROH-A5 / ROH-A7 / ROH-A9 / ROH-A12 series. User manual.

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Rolsen oil-filled heaters of the ROH-R5 / ROH-R7 / ROH-R9 / ROH-R12 series. User manual.

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Rolsen oil-filled heaters of the ROH-H7TF / ROH-H9TF / ROH-h21TF series. User manual.

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Rolsen oil-filled heaters of the ROH-C5 / ROH-C7 / ROH-C9 / ROH-C11 series. User manual.

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Fan heaters Rolsen RFH-2101 series.