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The Best Space Heaters for Large Rooms

Danielle Mcleod

Winter weather and rainy days can turn your otherwise cozy living areas chilly and uncomfortable. This can make getting work done and enjoying your family and surroundings difficult to do. It also can put a damper on your heating budget if you have to run a furnace at unexpected times of the year.

Space heaters can be an excellent solution both for your living spaces and heating budget. Although they are often used for smaller, less open rooms, many space heaters can easily warm a larger room effectively – helping you save on finances and providing the temporary warmth you are seeking. If you have any rooms that need a bit of extra warmth, you are looking to help save on your heating bill, and need a temporary heating solution, a space heater for a large room may be the solution you are looking for.

The following space heaters are great choices for large rooms. There are many models that you can consider, but these choices highlight favorable choices that have good consumer reviews. They also provide you a decent overview of what is available.

RankProductHighlightsWarranty
#1DeLonghi Safe Heat ComforTemp Portable Oil-Filled Radiator

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  • Dimensions:  14 x 6 x 25 inches
  • Weight: 23.5 lbs
  • Heating Capacity: ~400 square feet
7 years
#2Lasko 5165 Digital Ceramic Tower Heater with Remote Control

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  • Dimensions:  7.3”L x 8.14”W x 22.76”H
  • Weight: 6.6 lbs
  • Heating Capacity: ~400 square feet
3 years
#3Mr. Heater Buddy Indoor-Safe Portable Radiant Heater

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  • Dimensions:  14 x 9 x 14 inches
  • Weight: 9.5 lbs
  • Heating Capacity: 225+ square feet
1 year
#4Duraflame Infrared Quartz Fireplace Stove

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  • Dimensions:  13.1 x 24 x 23 inches
  • Weight: 28.5 lbs
  • Heating Capacity: 1000 square feet
3 years
#5Pro Breeze 1500W Mini Ceramic Space Heater

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  • Dimensions:  6.5” x 5” x 9” inches
  • Weight: ~3 lbs
  • Heating Capacity: ~400+ square feet
2 years

Space Heater Uses

Space heaters add supplemental heat to your living spaces. They are surprisingly effective and can work as a stand-alone option, or alongside other heating options to raise the temperature to what you need. There are various options you can choose from depending on your needs and the size of the space you are attempting to warm.

Reasons to Choose a Space Heater

Space heaters are incredibly affordable to run, especially if you are using them in areas that receive inadequate heat. They are often fairly small and generally very portable overall, making them easy to move from room to room or direct them where needed.

They also work in various types of room sizes and are considered a safe, effective choice. Although they are not designed for long term use, they produce heat quickly for exactly when you need it.

What Are the Basic Types of Space Heaters?

Choosing one particular space heater type can really help you narrow down your options. Not only are their methods of producing heat different, but they can also have better or worse capabilities and consume more or less energy. Using the proper space heater for the size of the actual space you want to heat is a big factor in conserving energy, and it can also help you save money and get warm more efficiently. When you choose the right space heater for your home, it can turn into a really efficient little boost to your home’s heating system, and drive the chill away in the long autumn days as winter creeps up. And to do that without a fuss and at minimal expense, you need to consider all your options. Here are the basic types of space heaters available on the market.

– Fan Forced

Fan forced or forced air space heaters are the basic, cheapest choice that is fantastic for small spaces or and those not-too-chilly days. Due to their relatively low heat output, these convection heaters can be fantastic for offices, cubicles, bathrooms, and similar small rooms. This type of heater circulates the heat it produces by a fan, evenly and quickly distributing the warm air around the room. As such, it can be a quick solution – but the feeling of the blown warm air might not be the best option out there. Still, if you need a cheap and fast solution for your small environment, or simply something to warm your legs in the office, this is a good choice.

– Infrared

Infrared space heaters might just have the cleverest design of all space heaters. With some very smart design features, they can efficiently heat up mid-size rooms – and very cheaply too. They produce constant and moderate heat that is best at heating objects in its vicinity – you included! This means that it won’t produce that hot, stuffy air, and you will still be nice and warm. They also come in various shapes and sizes (which is a great advantage unto itself), and can even be disguised as panels, mirrors, and stylish décor items. And since the warmth is just like that of the sun, the infrared space heaters are one of the safest and most natural options on the market.

– Ceramic

Ceramic space heaters have been around for a very long time, and present one of the most common designs to choose from. Their design is centered around a ceramic coil or plate which is heated with an electric current. The warmth is radiated and is sometimes enhanced with the addition of fans for added efficiency. A great benefit of ceramic heaters is that the actual body of the unit is almost cool to the touch, and that makes it perfectly safe for any household, even those with young kids around. Most models with ceramic plates are also self-regulating, meaning that they will not overheat, and will keep the temperature even at all times.

– Oil-filled

Considered by most as the old-school choice, oil-filled heaters are a reliable and simple solution that has been around for a very long time. Great for keeping constant temperature levels, oil heaters are safe and suitable for heating mid to large spaces. One thing to remember is that they could take a while to heat up, as the oil inside needs a few minutes to get to the required temperature. But this is made unimportant by the fact that oil-filled heaters are perhaps the best at heat output. Oil radiators are the most popular version here, and can easily keep even the larger rooms toasty and warm. Newer designs can be remotely controlled and put on a timer, giving you better control and higher safety. And as a cherry on top, there is the fact that oil-filled heaters make no sounds whatsoever, allowing you to enjoy warmth in peace and silence.

What to Look For in Space Heaters?

Now, a space heater might look like the perfect choice for your needs, but there are a few little details that you should really consider before making your decision. Not only does the efficiency matter, but the quality too – you want a heater that will last longer than one winter. To make sure that the space heater you’ve picked out for your home is the one that will give you the best value for money and ensure you stay warm and toasty throughout the colder months of the year, these are the features you’ll need to consider before purchase.

– Safety

Safety should always be the number one priority with heaters, especially if you have children or pets in the household. Several space heater versions will have the body of the unit heat up, and you always need to pay attention to that when there are tiny hands or paws that could get burned because of a curious touch. Additionally, these types of space heaters require ample ground clearance is important to avoid concentrated heat, but also to allow for warmth circulation. Another important safety feature is self-regulation when possible, and if not, an automatic shut-off is the next best thing. And as an added bonus, look for models that have all the important certificates and meet the safety standards of manufacture.

– Power & Wattage

More watt power means better heat output and the ability to heat up bigger environments. Always take a look at the wattage of a space heater model – this can directly tell you of the overall quality. Avoid models with low wattage, as they are only good for very small spaces. A good rule of thumb is to go for 1,000 watts for every 100 square feet of space- or 750 watts if it’s a bedroom rather than living or office space you’re trying to keep warm.

– Compactness

Size is sometimes an issue when space heaters are considered. If you have limited space, consider fan forced portable space heaters, or panel infrared ones – as they take up the least space. Oil-filled radiators can be the most robust ones and take up a lot of space. Another smart solution is the so-called “pillar” heaters which are elongated and slim, fitting perfectly in all spaces.

The Best Space Heaters for Large Rooms

DeLonghi Safe Heat ComforTemp Portable Oil-Filled Radiator

Specs:

  • Dimensions:  14 x 6 x 25 inches
  • Weight: 23.5 lbs
  • Heating Capacity: ~400 square feet
  • Warranty:  7 years

Label: Best Radiator Style Space Heater

This radiator-style heater provides consistent, powerful heating circulation throughout your room. It utilizes a sealed oil reservoir and electric power to create efficient heating with a built-in thermostat and thermal cutoffs, as well as adjustable heat settings. At only 25 inches tall and 14 inches wide it has a footprint that is smaller than many other similar products. It also is on wheels for easy movement from one room to the next.

Pros:

  • Helps save in heating costs
  • Runs very quiet and efficient
  • Very lightweight and portable

Cons:

  • Off-gassing smell with initial use
  • Flimsy wheels
  • Hard to see thermostat in low light

Who Should Buy This:

With 1500 watts it provides a powerful heat output. This is a great way to provide safe, reliable heat for up to 400 square feet.

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Lasko 5165 Digital Ceramic Tower Heater with Remote Control

Specs:

  • Dimensions:  7.3”L x 8.14”W x 22.76”H
  • Weight: 6.6 lbs
  • Heating Capacity: ~400 square feet
  • Warranty:  3 years

Label: Best Electric Ceramic Oscillating Tower

Oscillating heaters direct heat into a larger amount of a room’s space to help heat an area more effectively. This model is digital and has both a remote control as well as a touch screen display for easy heating and control convenience. The taller frame and the movement ensures you get heat where you need it. It also has an 8-hour timer.

Pros:

  • Auto Turn off timer
  • Digital display is easy to use
  • Wide spread heating

Cons:

  • Not for table top or under a table
  • Beep can be annoying

Who should purchase this?

This is a great floor heater that works well for a medium to larger room size. If you are looking for a consistent heat for your living area, this is a great choice

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Mr. Heater Buddy Indoor-Safe Portable Radiant Heater

Specs:

  • Dimensions:  14 x 9 x 14 inches
  • Weight: 9.5 lbs
  • Heating Capacity: 225+ square feet
  • Warranty:  1 year

Label: Best Propane Powered Indoor Heater

Although not many fuel-powered heaters are used in indoor spaces, this is a safe, portable option that puts out a lot of heat where you need it. Use a 1 lb propane tank to fuel this option and put out up to 9000 BTU/hr. The many safety features include a low-oxygen shut off and tip-over safety shut off. The heating elements are also covered by a high-temperature grill.

Pros:

  • Safe enough to use in a tent
  • Incredibly efficient
  • Great safety features

Cons:

  • Exposed flame in an element, although well protected
  • May not work well above 7000 feet elevation

Who Should Buy This:

Propane provides a clean, long-lasting burn. It is very efficient and when you need a portable choice that is compact and safe, this is a great choice.

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Duraflame Infrared Quartz Fireplace Stove

Specs:

  • Dimensions:  13.1 x 24 x 23 inches
  • Weight: 28.5 lbs
  • Heating Capacity: 1000 square feet
  • Warranty:  3 years

Label: Best Fireplace Style Space Heater

When you want to add a space heater to your room without it looking out of place, you might want to consider one that blends in. This fireplace style heater has the capability of heating up to a 100 square foot space as a supplemental heating choice. It has an adjustable, digital thermostat that turns off once your room reaches the desired temperature as well.  It is cool to the touch despite looking like burning logs and is cool to the touch- making it safe for pets and children.

Pros:

  • Great decorative piece
  • Provides consistent heat
  • Quiet fan

Cons:

  • Minimal difference between flame settings
  • Controls behind door
  • May not heat 1000 square feet effectively

Who Should Buy This:

If you want to integrate your heater into your decor, this is an excellent way to do so. It provides a rustic feel, yet fits well into any style interior decorations you have.

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Pro Breeze 1500W Mini Ceramic Space Heater

Specs:

  • Dimensions:  6.5” x 5” x 9” inches
  • Weight: ~3 lbs
  • Heating Capacity: ~400+ square feet
  • Warranty:  2 years

Label: Best Compact Ceramic Space Heater

Small and lightweight, this space heater packs a powerful punch for its size. It provides heat quickly and efficiently and is practically soundless as it works. It provides two heating levels and even a gentle fan mode. It also has an adjustable thermostat for easy, automatic off. The size makes it perfect for travel and moving from room to room.

Pros:

  • Saves on heating cost
  • Very efficient
  • Lightweight and portable

Cons:

  • A bit loud for such a small unit

Who Should Buy This?

If you prefer a miniature sized heater that packs a punch, this is a great option. You can easily supplement your room’s heat with this ceramic heating model.

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Conclusion

If you have been in need of a good space heater for a larger sized room, be sure to pick the style of heater that is both safe, and efficient for your needs. There are multiple options you can choose from, including electric and fuel powered heat. Be sure to look at overall size and safety specifications before making a final decision.