Best Space Heaters

Sometimes, the winter chill can really take us by surprise. Temperatures drop fast and it can be difficult to keep the house warm without racking up the bills! Even when you have a heating system in place, it can be more cost-effective to combine it with space heaters, as they can help conserve energy and add more warmth to the home without breaking the bank. Similarly, if you live in a small apartment or house, space heaters can be your primary method of heating in the winter.

Space heaters are meant to give you a cheap and quick way to heat a single room or your immediate surroundings. However, there are some factors to consider to ensure the space heater you pick will give you the best and most cost-effective performance for the given square footage.

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 Heaters

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 Heaters

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 Heaters

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 heaters

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.

Best Space Heaters

Heat Storm Phoenix Infrared Space Heater

Editor’s choice

Infrared space heaters are among the best solutions on the market and boast fantastic power output and heating capabilities. This particular infrared heater is one of the best designed on the market- which makes the slightly heftier price tag more than worth it. The modern, paneled design boasts a 1500 watt power output with a 5200 BTU power.

It also features the HMS technology which allows it to react to the humidity in your room and to offer a perfect heat level without making the room feel too dry and stuffy. The compact heater can be stood on the ground on four legs, or hung on the wall. It also features a modern LED display and remote control for quick and easy adjustments.

Who Should Buy This Product?

Great for small rooms, offices, bedrooms- this versatile and compact infrared heater will make you feel pleasantly warm even if it’s freezing outside. Safe enough to be used around children and pets, this design by Heat Storm will exceed your expectations.

Pros

• Can be mounted on the wall or stand on the floor
• Automatic shut off
• Remote controlled
• Modern design

Cons

• Feet can become hot
• Glaring display lights

Specs for Comparison:

Dimensions: 19” x 5” x 13”

Type: Infrared

Wattage: 1500W

Heat Settings: 2

Special Features: HMS technology

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GiveBest Portable Electric Space Heater

Customer’s choice

Adjustable, compact, and versatile, this small but potent electric space heater is a great choice for small spaces. The 2-in-1 design allows you to enjoy the warmth this ceramic heater radiates directly or dispersed through the room with the help of a fan- the choice is yours. The temperature can be adjusted to produce heat at 750 watts at its lower setting and double that- 1500 watts- at its highest. The lower will be enough, for instance, a bedroom, whereas the higher setting is more suited for a setting such as a garage or living room.

When it comes to safety precautions, this portable heater doesn’t disappoint. It will automatically shut off if the heater is tipped to the side (so you’re safe in case it falls down) and also if the unit overheats- so the risk of accidental fire hazards is brought to the very minimum.

Who Should Buy This Product?

This small heater combines power and small size to really pack a punch. If you are on the lookout for a suitable heat solution for your workshop, garage, office, or bathroom, the GiveBest portable heater is the choice.

Pros

• Small but powerful
• Overheat protection
• Tip-over auto shut off feature
• Versatile operation mode
• Quiet
• Portable

Cons

Can get too hot

Not good for long use

Specs for Comparison:

Dimensions: 9.2″ x 6.2″

Type: Ceramic + Fan

Wattage: 1500W

Heat Settings: 2

Special Features: PTC ceramic heating tech

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Honeywell Heatbud Ceramic Heater

Best for small spaces

Small and potent is what this Honeywell’s design is all about – it perfectly combines power and compact dimensions to give you the best of both worlds. This heater is fantastic for all small spaces, and especially offices and cubicles. Portable and self-standing, this space heater has a modest output of 250 watts but in this case, it actually works to the heater’s advantage. The low wattage makes its housing always cool to the touch but works great for fast and even heating of cramped spaces.

Honeywell also went one step ahead of the competition and incorporated some great design features, such as the tip-over switch that turns it off in case of falling, as well as overheat protection. The heater has 2 heat settings and the simplest, one-button control. Simple, efficient, and affordable- what more could anyone want?

Who Should Buy This Product?

If you’re on the lookout for an efficient heating solution for your desk at work, car, or any small space, look no further than the Heatbud. Small but very powerful, this space heater is a compact, fast heating solution for every small space. And best of all, it fits in your trunk, backpack, or a drawer- it will always be on hand.

Pros

• Perfect for small spaces
• Simple but powerful design
• Portable
• Tip-over protection

Cons

• Heats only very small areas (e.g. a desk)
• Takes a while to heat up space

Specs for Comparison:

Dimensions: 6.5” x 5.7”

Type: Ceramic

Wattage: 250W

Heat Settings: 2

Special Features: 360-degree tip-over protection

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Lasko FH500 Space Heater Combo Tower

Best space-saving heater

Lasko’s multifunctional combo tower is packed with surprises- it is really a powerful little heater. One of its chief design elements is the elongated tower look which is great for saving that precious space without sacrificing heat output. For safety reasons, there is a big sturdy base for better stability, and it is accompanied by a tip-over safety switch. This is a ceramic heater with a 1500 watt power output and 3 heat settings for fine control. As a result, it can be used to warm up almost any room in the house- without taking up too much space.

The ceramic heater is combined with a 4-speed fan that will quickly circulate the warmth, too, so you won’t wait long to feel the heat it radiates. And to top everything off, this nifty ceramic heater is ETL listed and certified- and boasts low noise output too.

Who Should Buy This Product?

Lasko offers a suitable solution for all the small spaces and stylish interior designs where this modern heater won’t stand out. This 2-in-1 combo tower combines the efficiency of a ceramic heater with the fast air circulation of a fan. And all that at an affordable price!

Pros

• Heater and fan
• Powerful wattage
• Space-saving tower design
• Tip-over automatic shut off option
• Adjustable thermostat
• 8-hour timer

Cons

• Housing can get pretty heated
• Bright display lights

Specs for Comparison:

Dimensions: 42” x 13”

Type: Ceramic + Fan

Wattage: 1500W

Heat Settings: 3

Special Features: ETL listed

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AmazonBasics Personal Heater

Budget buy

If you are looking for a basic solution without breaking the bank, AmazonBasics offers exactly what you need with this no-frills affordable design. This small, portable space heater features ceramic coils that can really quickly reach the given temperature. Being only 6 inches tall, this 500-watt heater is great for small spaces and offices. As a safety precaution, it features a tip-over protection mode.

With only a single button to control it, this device is superbly simple to use and can be placed on your desk or by your feet to provide some of that extra needed bit of warmth. As an added bonus, it comes in 4 different colors, so you can even add a bit of spirit into your room or office.

Who Should Buy This Product?

If you dread those cold feet on autumn mornings, or simply need a bit of warmth when working in the office, this AmazonBasics heater is perhaps the best choice on the market. Easy to use and portable, it is perfect for quick bursts of warmth in small spaces. Not to mention that its affordable price makes it a great choice for those on a tight budget!

Pros

• Simple design
• Affordable
• Perfect for small spaces

Cons

• The metal grill can get too hot
• Not good for prolonged use

Specs for Comparison:

Dimensions: 5.87” x 6”

Type: Ceramic Coils

Wattage: 500W

Heat Settings: 1

Special Features: Tip-over protection

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You may want to check out: Space Heaters for Large Rooms

Bottom Line

Sometimes the opening stages of winter are the tricky ones – it’s not cold enough to ramp up the heating in the entire home, but it’s chilly enough for you to be uncomfortable. Space heaters are the perfect solution in this situation – they are the fantastic middle-ground solution, allowing you to feel warm and cozy as the winter approaches without breaking the bank.

In some areas, space heaters can even be the primary mode of heating if the space is small enough, so it’s important to carefully consider all factors before deciding- it will help ensure that you’re getting your money’s worth.