Space Heaters - Buying a Space Heater
TYPES OF SPACE HEATERS
There are several types of space heaters available with various features and benefits. You need to know the different types of space heaters before you shop so you can better determine what the best space heater is for you.
Convection space heaters are the best option when you're trying to heat an entire room. They may use a fan for better heat distribution.
Radiant space heaters use a quartz tube, ceramic core, or an electric-ribbon element, and are best used for direct heating. Their heat quickly dissipates when the unit is switched off.
Fuel oil heaters use kerosene or propane as a heat source. They are especially useful when there's a power outage, but they weigh a ton and pose serious fire risks. Fuel space heaters can cause carbon monoxide poisoning and indoor air pollution, so they should only be used in areas with good ventilation.
Convection space heaters and radiant space heaters are the safest and most efficient space heaters to buy, so this guide will focus on helping you shop for one or the other.
WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING A SPACE HEATER
Safety
Fire safety is a huge issue with space heaters, so make sure to buy a one that combines the safety features listed below with consistent performance and overall value.
- Guarding over the heating coils: helps reduce the surface temperature to make a heater more fire-proof
- Tip-over shut-off device: if a heater is knocked over, it will instantly shut itself off
- Overheat protection: shuts down the unit when it reaches dangerous temperatures.
Also, be sure that the unit bears the Underwriter's Laboratories seal of approval (look for the UL logo on the tag), which indicates that it complies with their industry-wide safety standards.
Portability
A lightweight model is essential if you plan on using the space heater in several different rooms and/or floors of your home. Just make sure it has an insulated handle for a safe grip en route.
Temperature control is also important, so find a model with a thermostat. Buy a unit without one, and you'll have to turn it on and off to maintain the desired room temperature. Space heaters with multiple output settings (High, Medium or Low) also achieve consistent heating while saving energy.
TIPS FOR SPACE HEATER USE
You want a space heater that offers effective, energy-efficient heating and overall performance at a reasonable price, but you also need it to be safe. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, space heaters account for 30% of heating-related injuries and 40% of heating-related deaths. The Federal Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates that there are more than 21,000 fires every year because of space heaters, and almost 300 people die.
According to Consumer Reports, "Overloaded, undersized, or frayed power cords are a major cause of fires, injuries, and deaths associated with space heaters. Inspect your electric space heater's power cord to ensure it's in good condition. If you need to use an extension cord, get a 12- or 14-gauge model. All of the tested electric models have a power cord that's at least 70 inches long. A longer cord gives you greater flexibility in where you can place the heater."
To prevent your space heater from causing your home to catch fire, be sure to keep it at least three feet from drapes and furniture, and turn it off when you leave the room or go to sleep. Also, look for the safety features noted above: guards on the heating coils, tip-over and overheat protection, and the Underwriter's Laboratories seal of approval.
BEST BETS FOR BUYING THE BEST SPACE HEATER
For the budget- and value-conscious
Personal radiant heaters can cost under twenty dollars. Honeywell and Holmes make some of the best personal heaters.
For those who can splurge
DeLonghi and Vornado offer great space heaters if you can afford to spend near or over $100 on a heater.
For more consumer advice, read space heater reviews of all top brands.
