A space heater is a practical appliance designed to keep you warm during the cooler months. Compact and easy to move, it helps you save money by allowing you to heat only the areas you use, without constantly adjusting your thermostat. every time you need to stay cozy.
This makes the space heater a solution to all the problems you may face during the winter months. But with a variety of products out in the market, finding the perfect space heater may seem like a task. To make things easier, in this blog post, we’re going to take you through the types of space heaters available so you can ensure you have a warm and toasty home every day!
To get started, let us explore how space heaters are divided to understand the various categories of space heaters
- By Heating Systems: There are 3 main types of heating systems, they are the convection heating system which heats the air in the room. When compared to the radiant heating system, this warms up an object or a surface directly. The last type is the combination heating system which uses both methods to heat the room
- By Location: Space heaters are a versatile product that caters to your location and has diverse types allowing you to use them both indoors and outdoors too.
- By Size : Portable space heaters are commonly used in homes or small offices, whereas in a more commercial setting an industrial space heater may be equipped to warm up the area.
Now that we have a rough overview of the way space heaters are categorized, let’s break down the different types of space heaters.
Outline
ToggleSpace Heater Types: Best Uses And Top Benefits
Type Of Heater | Suitable For | Advantages |
Ceramic Heater | Home, Office | Fast, efficient heating; compact |
Oil-Filled Radiator | Home | Silent; long-lasting heat retention |
Fan Heater | Home, Office, Car (small areas) | Quick heating; lightweight, convenient |
Propane Heater | Outdoors (camping, patios), Garage, Home | Efficient for large spaces; mobile |
Panel Heater | Home, Office | Slim design; energy-efficient |
Infrared Heater | Home, Outdoor, Garage | Efficient, direct warmth |
Halogen Heater | Small spaces, Workspaces | Instant heat; lightweight |
Quartz Heater | Garage, Workshop, Outdoor | Quick and direct heat; durable |
Combination Heater/Fan | Home, Office | Dual-purpose (heating + cooling); compact |
Baseboard Heater | Home (Bedrooms, Living rooms) | Quiet; energy-efficient |
Tower Heater | Home, Office (small to medium rooms) | Space-saving; even heat distribution |
Electric Radiant Heater | Home, Office | Quick, direct warmth; silent operation |
Patio Heater | Outdoors (Patios, Decks) | Covers large outdoor areas; durable |
Tabletop Heater | Outdoor (Tables, Small gatherings) | Compact; adds ambiance |
Portable Heater | Home, Office, Car | Easy to move; cost-effective |
Industrial Heater | Large spaces (Warehouses, Factories) | Powerful; efficient for large areas |
Types Of Space Heaters: Which One Is Right For You?
Ceramic Heater
The Ceramic Heater which comes under the convection heating system, is a popular choice for heating up small to medium-sized rooms. They work by placing ceramic plates that are attached to metal plates. As electricity flows through the coils, it emits hot air which creates a cozy atmosphere in your home. These are compact and often come with adjustable features like thermostats, oscillation, and timers for added convenience. Ceramic heaters are known for their energy efficiency and offer effective heating. keeping safety in mind, they typically offer a cool-to-touch exterior and automatic shut-off functions. They are best suited for indoors when you need to warm up quickly.
Advantages:
- Fast and efficient heating.
- Compact and space-saving design.
Disadvantages:
- Not suitable for large spaces.
- Some models can be noisy.
Oil-Filled Radiators
Oil-filled radiators are known for providing steady and long-lasting warmth. Unlike the other heaters, this works by heating the oil in the radiator. Which then radiates heat all over the room. This heater style comes under the convection heating system, thus it keeps radiating heat throughout, even when the space heater has been turned off.
While they may take longer to heat up, a more consistent temperature is offered which doesn’t dry out the air in the room. Over time and proves to be a cost-effective investment as they use minimal cost for heating. The only downside would be its weight and size which makes this type of space heater less mobile.
Advantages:
- Silent operation.
- Long-lasting heat retention.
Disadvantages:
- Slow to heat up.
- Heavier and less portable.
Fan Heaters
A simple and affordable way to heat your room would be to get a fan heater. It works by blowing out hot air over a heating element which circulates the warm air into your space. These types of units are small and powerful. It can heat spaces in minutes and is better suited for spot heating or warming small to medium-sized rooms.
Fan space heaters often come with adjustable heat settings which include thermostats and timers, which allow the user to control the heat output. But compared to the oil-filled radiators, the fan heater tends to be noisier and dry out your room.
Advantages:
- Quick and powerful heating.
- Lightweight and Convenient.
Disadvantages:
- Noisy operation.
- Can dry out the air.
Propane Heaters
These gas-filled Propane heaters are ideal for indoor and outdoor use. Propane is burnt to generate heat, Which makes it incredibly efficient in quickly heating large spaces. They are commonly used in outdoor settings, like patios or garages but can also be used indoors if you have proper ventilation, mostly used for camping trips or emergencies.
Although they are powerful, you should remember to be careful while handling propane heaters as they use flammable gas and can emit carbon monoxide. And in case the oxygen level drops, newer models have oxygen depletion sensors that shut off for you.
Advantages:
- Highly efficient in heating large spaces.
- Mobile and versatile for indoor and outdoor use.
Disadvantages:
- Requires ventilation due to carbon monoxide emissions.
- Risk of fire hazard if not used properly.
Panel Heaters
Panel heaters use electricity to generate heat. Usually, they are fixed against a wall as they have a sleek and slim build. If you’re looking for a compact heater that quickly warms up your room, the panel heater uses convection heating technology. Which relies on electricity to heat your room in an energy-saving way.
Newer models of heaters are more energy efficient and have built-in features to adjust the thermostat and set timers. But if you’re looking for a heater to warm you up quickly, this may not be the one for you as it is better for continuous and consistent low-level heating.
Advantages:
- Slim and space-saving design.
- Energy-efficient and easy to install.
Disadvantages:
- Slow to heat a room.
- Limited heating capacity for larger spaces.
Infrared Heaters
Another option to seek out when considering the types of heaters is infrared heaters. These use infrared technology to heat objects and people directly. Compared to others, their unique technology helps them consume low power and saves energy.
Infrared heaters provide an orangy glow which not only provides ambient lighting. But also emulates a natural warmth similar to sunlight. When placing it in your home, you should keep it within a clear line of sight for maximum effectiveness. Otherwise, obstructions can come in the way of heating thoroughly.
Advantages:
- Efficient and natural-feeling warmth.
- Suitable for larger spaces and outdoor areas.
Disadvantages:
- Heat is directional and can be blocked by objects.
- Doesn’t work as well in cooler areas.
Halogen Heater
Similar to infrared heaters, halogen heaters also use a radiant style of heating which sources its heat directly. This is lightweight and convenient, making it ideal for small areas like workspaces or small rooms. Another thing to consider is the style of heating.
A halogen heater gives short bursts of heat directly to the source which instantly warms up a room. One of the shortcomings of this unit is that it is hot to the touch and prone to overheating if left in a spot for too long. However, updated models have built-in safety features to prevent hazards and tip-overs.
Advantages:
- Instant and focused heat.
- Lightweight and easy to carry.
Disadvantages:
- Limited to small areas.
- Short-range heating effectiveness.
Quartz Heaters
Quartz heaters use quartz tubes because of their transparent nature, which allows the energy produced to emit through the quartz without being absorbed. It lends a quicker more effective and power-conserving method for heating. Often found outdoors in garages or workshops, these provide a directional style of heating that quickly heat spaces. It is more effective for specific areas rather than large rooms.
Quartz heaters are praised for their durability to sustain consistently heating rooms for a long amount of time and don’t need as much maintenance and come with a longer lifespan compared to other types of space heaters
Advantages:
- Provides quick and direct heat.
- Energy-efficient for spot heating.
Disadvantages:
- Limited heating area.
- Not suitable for large spaces.
Combination Fan And Heater
This dual-purpose unit provides two styles of heating. It combines the radiant style of heating with the convection style of heating. A combination heater contains a fan and a heater and depending on the season can help cool or warm the room which lets you use a multi-functional heater all around the year.
They may not be as powerful as dedicated heaters but are tiny and suitable for smaller-sized rooms, with areas that have moderate climates. They’re, equipped with qualities like oscillation, timers, and the ability to control it remotely, making this heater well-rounded in terms of its offerings.
Advantages:
- Dual-purpose for heating and cooling.
- Space-saving and smaller in size.
Disadvantages:
- It may not be as potent as standalone heaters or fans.
- Limited to small to medium-sized rooms.
Baseboard Heaters
Baseboard heaters are convection heaters that are installed under flooring, for a low-profile look. Ideal for bedrooms, and living rooms. And for bathrooms too. They work by quietly releasing hot air which gradually warms up the entire area and are controlled by using the thermostat for easy adjustment.
Even though energy is saved, baseboard heaters are slow to heat up and act as an ideal supplemental heat source rather than the main source of warmth in a room. These units also have a wire-free appearance which adds a clean aesthetic to your room.
Advantages:
- Quiet and unobtrusive.
- Energy-efficient for maintaining consistent temperatures.
Disadvantages:
- Slow to warm up a room.
- Limited to supplemental heating.
Tower Heaters
This space-saving design comes with effective heat distribution, and spreads its warmth evenly and quietly, with the help of oscillation. It comes with multiple heat settings, timers, and essential safety features.
The compact design makes it ideal to use in small indoor spaces like living rooms, bedrooms, or offices. Its slender and energy-efficient design is made for areas with limited space. Although it may prove to be less stable due to its height and wouldn’t be powerful enough for larger rooms. And depending on the model you have your tower heater may have access to additional features like being able to purify the air or control the heater remotely.
Advantages:
- Space-saving design with even heat distribution.
- Often comes with multiple features and settings.
Disadvantages:
- May not be powerful enough for large rooms.
- Can be less stable due to height.
Electric Radiant Heaters
The electric radiant heater is a similar option to the infrared heater. They release their heat using infrared radiation to warm people or places directly. The targeted warmth that is provided by the electric radiant heaters is ideal for small spaces like offices or bedrooms.
Most radiators of similar looks, come in a sleek design. Which quietly maintains a comfortable air quality without drying out the surrounding atmosphere. Because it uses electricity, the heater can be quite cost-saving. However, like other types of radiant heaters, the electric heater also demands that no object comes in the way when the warmer is on, to ensure even heating throughout.
Advantages:
- Provides quick, direct warmth.
- Silent operation.
Disadvantages:
- Limited heating range.
- Ineffective n large spaces.
Patio Heaters
If you are looking for an option to extend the usage of your yard during the winter months, a patio heater provides a practical solution that gives a quick and immediate source of warmth during cooler months. They provide a cozy atmosphere for outdoor activities and such a style of Radiator is available in a variety of fuel options such as propane, natural gas, or electric. It is designed to withstand the wear and tear of outdoors.
Although patio heaters are equipped with a robust set of safety features, it is important to carefully place them and manage your fuel consumption to ensure safety and minimize fuel consumption otherwise it may become expensive to operate.
Advantages:
- Extends outdoor living season.
- Covers a wide area with heat.
Disadvantages:
- Requires careful placement and fuel management.
- Can be expensive to operate.
Tabletop Heaters
Tabletop heaters are yet another outdoor-style heater. These are typically powered by propane or electricity and help to provide warmth directly around the table. Most tabletop heaters are compact and easy to set and provide a stylish solution to creating a cozy environment for evening dinners or outdoor parties.
Tabletop heaters stand out for their decorative appeal, featuring sleek finishes and ambient lighting. These units are not suitable for large areas but are perfect for intimate settings. Depending on the model, regular refueling or a consistent power source is necessary for operation.
Advantages:
- Compact and easy to handle.
- Adds warmth and ambiance to small gatherings.
Disadvantages:
- Limited heating range.
- Requires regular refueling or access to electricity.
Portable Heaters
A portable space heater is one of the most convenient types of heaters. It stands out for its powerful capacity despite its small size. This heater also comes with many useful features.
Portable space heaters are available in different heating styles like ceramic, fan, and infrared. They are more cost-effective than regular-sized radiators. Plus, they are lightweight and easy to move, offering great flexibility. These heaters are perfect for spot heating and often come with adjustable thermostats, timers, and safety features.
Advantages:
- Flexible and easy to move.
- Cheaper for spot heating.
Disadvantages:
- Limited heating capacity for larger rooms.
- Some models may be less durable.
Industrial Heater
Built for large, heavy-duty facilities like warehouses and factories, the industrial heater provides a very powerful and consistent source of heat. There are a variety of fuel sources that an industrial heater can run on, which is determined by which industry it is used in. From propane to natural gas or even electricity. Industrial heaters are capable of heating large spaces quickly and efficiently.
Due to its large size, one must be careful to place this kind of warmer and should note that the facility must have proper ventilation, especially when it comes to fuel-based models where there is a high risk of materials being flammable.
Advantages:
- Powerful and efficient for large spaces.
- Equipped with robust safety features.
Disadvantages:
- Noisy operation.
- Requires proper ventilation and space.
FAQs:
The amount of electricity a space heater uses depends on the type and wattage of the heater. Most space heaters consume between 750 to 1500 watts per hour when in use. While this can add up on your electric bill, space heaters can be cost-effective if you use them to heat only the room you’re in, rather than raising the thermostat for your entire home. Choosing energy-efficient models and using features like thermostats and timers can also help manage electricity usage.
Infrared heaters and ceramic heaters are among the most efficient types of space heaters. Infrared heaters are efficient because they directly heat people and objects rather than the air, which reduces energy loss.
Ceramic heaters are also known for their energy efficiency, especially in small to medium-sized rooms, as they warm the air quickly and maintain a consistent temperature with lower energy consumption.
For small to medium-sized rooms, ceramic heaters, and fan heaters are popular choices. Ceramic heaters are energy-efficient, compact, and often feature adjustable settings, while fan heaters provide quick and effective heating but can be noisy.
Yes, there are space heaters designed for outdoor use, such as propane heaters, patio heaters, and tabletop heaters. These heaters are powerful and efficient in heating large outdoor areas but require proper ventilation and careful handling due to safety considerations.
Safety features to consider include automatic shut-off functions, cool-to-touch exteriors, tip-over protection, and oxygen depletion sensors for propane heaters. These features help prevent overheating, accidents, and other potential hazards while using the heater.
Conclusion
To wrap things up, a space heater is an essential part of a home as it keeps your home warm and cozy during cooler months. Whether you need a quick fix or a more permanent solution for a larger space, there is a space heater for you. With so many options available, it is important to consider the size of the space, features for safety, and conserving energy. Just remember, the right heater can make all the difference, so make sure to take your time to choose one that fits your lifestyle and needs.