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Electric space heaters are a great secondary source of warmth during the winter months. There are many different types, each with their benefits and downsides. So if you are asking the question of What is the best portable electric heater? this article is just what you need to help you with all the pros and cons.
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Top 10 Best Electric Heaters for Your Home
Check out the 10 best space heater options and choose not only the best portable electric heater but the most suitable one for each room.
1. Comfort Zone Oscillating with Stay Cool Housing
Best Overall
Type | Ceramic forced fan |
Watts | 1500w |
Dimensions | 8 x 8 x 23 in |
Eco-Mode | Yes |
Remote Control | Yes |
Oscillating | Yes |
Timer | Yes |
This modern heating portable electric heater tower turns from side to side for efficient and even heating of the entire room. The forced fan spreads the hot air around for a comfortable temperature without the risk of overheating thanks to the ceramic housing.
It is a very slim design so that it fits easily into any room without taking up too much floor space or needing a wall mount. It also lightweight so you can easily take it with you to other rooms that are chilly.
Feel secure with the safety features such as the housing which stays cool, the large thermostat display that prevents overheating and a built-in cutoff switch in case it tips over. There is also an eco-mode that adjusts the wattage while maintaining a comfortable temperature.
Pros
- Housing prevents burns
- Even spread of heat
- Highly portable
Cons
- Fan cuts off whenever the desired temperature is registered
- Not suitable for large spaces
2. NewAir Electric Oil-Filled Portable Radiator Design
Best for Small Rooms
Type | Electric oil-filled portable radiator |
Watts | 1500w |
Dimensions | 13.5 x 9.5 x 25 in |
Eco-Mode | Yes |
Remote Control | Yes |
Oscillating | No |
Timer | Yes |
Ideal for rooms that are up 150 square feet, this oil-filled radiator on wheels functions great as a personal space heater. It is designed like a radiator but much smaller with only 7 fins so that it fits into narrow spaces.
On the large control panel, you can adjust to 5 different temperatures, 3 heating options, and 5 timer settings. You can also make any adjustments using the remote control for more ease. With all these features this little handy unit had to be on this list of portable electric heaters.
It is also a very affordable product so it makes a good addition to your home’s already installed heating.
Pros
- Highly portable design with wheels
- Remote control and clear control panel
- Oil-filled heaters retain heat for longer
Cons
- Tip-over safety feature might be faulty
- Only suitable as a personal space heater
3. Delonghi HCX9115E Slim Convector
Best for Large Spaces
Type | Convection Panel |
Watts | 1500w |
Dimensions | 32.2 x 3 x 21.8 in |
Eco-Mode | Yes |
Remote Control | No |
Oscillating | No |
Timer | Yes |
This model is the new and improved update to the extremely popular Delonghi HMP1500. This upgrade features a dual-fan system that spreads the heat throughout the room even faster and more evenly and an extra heat setting.
This unit is best for rooms that are up to 300 square feet but with such a slim design you can easily place two units on opposite sides of the room without taking up much space. The simple sleek design is only 3 inches wide so it also blends in easily against a wall.
On the LED control panel you can adjust the timer, temperature and power settings, including an eco-mode for more efficient running. This is a welcome feature for larger spaces where energy-efficiency makes a big difference in your monthly bills. This is definitely on the list as probably the best electric heater for house or large area.
Pros
- Thin design with removable feet
- Dual-fan system for better heat spread
Cons
- Requires several units for rooms over 300 sq.ft.
- No remote control
4. King 2K1205BW K Series
Best Baseboard
Type | Electric baseboard heater |
Watts | 500w |
Dimensions | 27 x 3.3 x 6.75 in |
Eco-Mode | No |
Remote Control | No |
Oscillating | No |
Timer | Yes |
Looking to install permanent heating features but do you live in an older home or would the wiring be overly complicated? This King baseboard offers you a simple and affordable solution since it requires no additional wiring and comes at a very friendly price.
Electric baseboard heaters are great as a secondary heat source and do well in eliminating the cold drafts from doors and windows. Though this type of space heater requires more installation, it is also a safer choice since there is no risk of tipping over.
This is also one of the more energy-efficient models since it runs on just 500 watts. One thing to remember however is that you need to clear a space of about 6 – 10 inches around the baseboard to avoid a potential fire hazard.
Pros
- Discreet wall-mounted design
- Very safe
Cons
- Strategic placement required for best coverage
- Windows and doors must be closed for effectiveness
5. e-Flame USA Hamilton Free Standing Electric Fireplace
Best Stove Heater
Type | Electric fireplace |
Watts | 1500w |
Dimensions | 22 x 15 x 10 in |
Eco-Mode | No |
Remote Control | No |
Oscillating | No |
Timer | Yes |
Electric heaters don’t always have to be hidden away. If you choose a rustic electric stove type, they can add a lot of coziness to the room.
This beautiful baroque-style free-standing element gives the feeling of a classic wood fireplace but with all the ease and convenience of an electric fireplace. You can even enjoy the flames with the heat off, just for the ambiance.
This is a fan-forced heater so the warmth spreads nicely through the room, making this a smart choice for larger spaces up to 400 square feet, as well. Probably the best heater for that warming feeling while you relax and is also a wonderful feature in any room.
Pros
- Decorative
- Suitable for large spaces
Cons
- Requires more space
- No thermostat and limited settings
6. Lasko 6462 Full Circle with Remote Control
Best Ceramic
Type | Ceramic space heater |
Watts | 1500w |
Dimensions | 9.2 x 11 x 25 in |
Eco-Mode | Yes |
Remote Control | Yes |
Oscillating | Yes |
Timer | Yes |
Ceramic space heaters are popular as a secondary heat source and for large rooms where the central heating might be more costly to run. This design by the popular brand Lasko works excellent in the living room since it spins around 360 degrees.
This product comes fully assembled so there is no difficult installation needed. You also get full control using the remote control for adjusting the heat setting, fan setting, and oscillation.
This is an extremely popular design thanks to its simple maintenance and great performance in rooms up to 300 sq. ft. , all for a friendly price. This is a product that won’t disappoint.
Pros
- Heats up to 300 square feet
- 360-degree oscillation
Cons
- The design could be more stable
- Requires regular cleaning
7. Infrared Portable with Humidifier
Best Infrared Space Heater
Type | Infrared convection heater |
Watts | 1500w |
Dimensions | 13 x 11 x 16 in |
Eco-Mode | No |
Remote Control | No |
Oscillating | No |
Timer | Yes |
As one of the stylish designs with the wow factor, this has to high up as best portable heater with that little bit of extra something. This retro-looking space heater comes with a humidifier so you get a two-for-one deal. It adds moisture to the air which gets much drier in cold temperatures.
The model uses a combination of both convection heat and infrared heat to create a warm space that is lasting. It is also a safe design with no exposed parts so you can feel comfortable with children and pets in the room.
One of the more user-friendly features is the auto-mode which automatically adjusts itself to the desired temperature while also running on the most energy-efficient option. It is like an eco-mode but as its standard-setting.
Pros
- Energy-efficient
- Includes humidifier
Cons
- Very noticeable design
- Gets warm to the touch
8. EconoHome Wall Mount Panel with Thermostat
Best Panel Heater
Type | Panel heater |
Watts | 400w |
Dimensions | 23.5 x 0.4 x 23.5 in |
Eco-Mode | No |
Remote Control | No |
Oscillating | No |
Timer | Yes |
If you are looking for a quiet heater for a small room then a panel might be the right type for you. These wall-mounted designs are easily kept out of reach of children making them a safe choice.
This simple design by EconoHome works great in small rooms up to 150 square feet in size. It does not consume a lot of energy at just 400 watts, so it works great as a low-cost supplemental heat.
Each package comes with a built-in on/off switch and thermostat. It is easily installed and comes with all the little parts you need for affixing it on the wall.
Pros
- Wall-mount is safer for children
- Very slim design
Cons
- Only suitable for small spaces
- Not suitable for moist areas
9. Brightown Mini Heater
Best Wall Outlet Plug-In
Type | Plug-in |
Watts | 355w |
Dimensions | 8 x 5 x 4.8 in |
Eco-Mode | No |
Remote Control | No |
Oscillating | Yes |
Timer | Yes |
Looking for some extra heat in your RV or a design that is as small as possible? This tiny portable heater plugs into any regular wall outlet so you can carry it with you, almost anywhere.
This little device can heat to temperatures between 65°F – 90°F and has a timer for 1 – 12 hours. It only consumes 355 watts of energy so it is a practical appliance to have near your desk as a secondary heat source.
If you tend to run cold while sitting still but don’t want to hike up the electricity bills, this is a smart solution for you. It keeps you comfortably warm in any room in the house (except the bathroom because of moisture) while still being energy-efficient.
Pros
- Safe design without wiring
- Highly portable
Cons
- Only suitable for small spaces
- Not safe in moist areas
10. HALOFUN Oscillating Quick Heat
Best for Tabletops
Type | Ceramic space heater |
Watts | 1500w |
Dimensions | 5.9 x 9.4 in |
Eco-Mode | Yes |
Remote Control | No |
Oscillating | Yes |
Timer | Yes |
A small space heater that fits nice and safely on top a table is a great supplementary heat source. They are extra cozy for those that have to spend long hours behind a desk and get cold feet or hands during the winter.
This sleek and small ceramic space heater is easily moved and sits stable on a flat surface. It moves from side to side to spread warm air at two adjustable heat settings.
The built-in thermostat manages the temperatures to prevent overheating but also prevents using too much electricity when it has already reached the desired temperature. It has tip-over protection so you can worry less about accidentally kicking it or knocking it over.
Pros
- Highly portable
- A stable design with tip-over protection
Cons
- Not so energy-efficient
- Only suitable for personal space
Electric Space Heater Buying guide
As you can see, there are many types of electric heaters so how do you decide which one is most suitable for your room? Here are a few tips to help you decide.
Size
The actual size of the device is not as telling about how much heat it produces. This is useful information for deciding whether it fits inside the room but it does not tell you about the coverage.
Measure your room to find the right size device in just a few simple steps. Don’t choose a smaller capacity option because it is cheaper, that will only lead to ineffective heating which does not help your monthly bills.
Energy Consumption
Secondary to the required size, it should run efficiently. 1500 watts is the common number for designs meant for larger rooms but check that it also has lower settings and an economy mode for when the room is already at the ideal temperature.
Alternatively, choose smaller designed that are meant as personal space heaters. These usually run around 500 watts. They won’t heat up a whole room but you will be toasty.
Safety
Think about the cords and exposed elements, especially if you have children and pets in your household. The safest designs are battery-powered and have a housing that stays cool to touch.
Also, make sure it has safety features like a thermostat against overheating and automatic shutoff when tipping over. These are basic elements that any respectable manufacturer includes.
Noise
Certain types, like those with a fan, make more noise than others. Finding a quiet space heater may take some time but the consumer reviews can be very insightful.
The noise could be a warning sign so do a proper cleaning and check what is different. Don’t keep running the device if it makes sudden sounds.