As the winter season approaches, the need for a reliable and efficient heating system becomes more apparent. One such solution is the use of electric space heaters. These devices are designed to provide supplemental heat to specific areas in your home, making them a cost-effective and convenient option for maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature. This article aims to provide an in-depth look at electric space heaters, their benefits, and some of the best models available in the market.
Electric Space Heaters: What Are They?
Electric space heaters are portable devices that use electricity to generate heat. They come in various types, sizes, and designs, each offering unique features and benefits. The primary purpose of these heaters is to provide supplemental heat to areas where the central heating system may not reach or be efficient enough.
Why Choose Electric Space Heaters?
Electric space heaters offer several advantages that make them an excellent choice for home heating. Here are a few reasons why you might want to consider getting one:
- Efficiency: Electric space heaters heat up quickly, providing instant warmth to the area around them. This makes them an excellent choice for quickly heating up cold rooms in your home.
- Portability: Due to their compact size, electric space heaters can be easily moved from one room to another, providing heat wherever it’s needed.
- Cost-effective: Electric space heaters can be more cost-effective than central heating systems, especially when used to heat small areas.
- Easy to use: Most electric space heaters come with user-friendly controls, making them easy to operate.
Types of Electric Space Heaters
Convection Heaters
Convection heaters work by heating the air in the room. The warm air rises, and the cooler air moves in to replace it, creating a cycle of warm air circulation. These heaters are best for heating entire rooms for extended periods.
Radiant Heaters
Radiant heaters work by emitting infrared radiation that directly heats objects and people in its path. These heaters are best for providing quick, spot heating in a specific area.
Fan-Forced Heaters
Fan-forced heaters use a fan to blow air over a heat source. This heated air is then pushed out into the room. These heaters are great for quickly heating up a room.
Ceramic Heaters
Ceramic heaters are a type of convection heater. They have a ceramic plate that heats up, and a fan that blows the warm air out into the room. Ceramic heaters are known for their safety features, as the ceramic element does not get as hot as other types.
Choosing the Best Electric Space Heater
When it comes to choosing the best electric space heater, several factors need to be considered. These include the heater’s size, power output, safety features, and price. Here are some of the top models that have been highly recommended by experts and users alike:
Vornado VH200
The Vornado VH200 stands out as the best space heater for most people. It heats a room faster and more evenly than other models, offering the best combination of power, comfort, and quietness. It’s compact enough to tuck away in a corner and features overheating and tip-over protection, ensuring your safety while using the device.
Vornado AVH10
The Vornado AVH10 is a close runner-up, offering similar performance to the VH200 but with added features like a digital display and a countdown clock for extra safety. It heats the room quickly and to a higher temperature than the VH200, making it a great alternative if you prefer its extra features.
Lasko 754200 Ceramic Heater
If you’re on a budget, the Lasko 754200 Ceramic Heater is a reliable choice. It warms up faster than most fan heaters and has a compact, lightweight body that’s about the size of a loaf of bread. It’s perfect for warming a home office or for quickly heating up a small bedroom.
De’Longhi TRD40615T
For those who prefer oil-filled radiators, the De’Longhi TRD40615T is the best of its kind. It warms up much more slowly than a ceramic heater, but it retains its heat for a longer period, resulting in a cozier, more ambient warmth throughout the room.
Dreo Solaris Slim H3 (DR-HSH003)
The Dreo Solaris Slim H3 stands out for its stylish appearance and its ability to spread warm air evenly around the room. It’s quiet, easy to clean, and comes with all the safety features you’d expect from a high-quality space heater.
Safety Considerations When Using ElectricSpace Heaters
While electric space heaters are a convenient and efficient source of supplemental heat, it’s crucial to use them safely. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:
- Avoid using extension cords: Most manufacturers recommend plugging the heater directly into the wall outlet. If you must use an extension cord, ensure it’s rated for the heater’s electrical load.
- Don’t leave the heater unattended: Always turn off the heater when leaving the room or going to bed.
- Keep the heater away from flammable materials: Maintain a safe distance between the heater and furniture, curtains, bedding, and other flammable materials.
- Use heaters with safety features: Look for heaters with safety features like tip-over protection, which automatically turns off the heater if it’s knocked over, and overheat protection, which shuts off the heater if it gets too hot.
- Don’t use heaters in wet or damp locations: Unless the heater is specifically designed for use in wet locations, like bathrooms, it’s best to keep it in dry areas to avoid the risk of electric shock.
Energy Efficiency and Electric Space Heaters
Energy Consumption
Electric space heaters can be energy-efficient options for heating small spaces. However, they can also consume a lot of energy, especially if used improperly. Always use the lowest setting that provides comfortable warmth, and turn off the heater when it’s not needed.
Energy-Saving Features
Many modern electric space heaters come with features designed to save energy. These include programmable timers, adjustable thermostats, and eco-friendly modes.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are electric space heaters safe?
Yes, electric space heaters are safe when used properly. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety guidelines.
2. Can I use an electric space heater to heat my entire home?
While electric space heaters are great for heating small spaces, they’re not designed to heat an entire home. For whole-house heating, consider a central heating system.
3. How much will an electric space heater increase my electric bill?
The impact on your electric bill depends on several factors, including the power of the heater, how often you use it, and your local electricity rates.
4. Can I leave my electric space heater on all night?
It’s not recommended to leave an electric space heater on while you sleep due to safety reasons. If you need to heat your bedroom overnight, consider a heater with a programmable timer.
5. How do I clean my electric space heater?
Always unplug the heater before cleaning. Use a soft brush to gently remove dust and debris from the heater’s surface and grills. For a deeper clean, refer to the manufacturer’s instructions.
6. What’s the lifespan of an electric space heater?
The lifespan of an electric space heater varies depending on the model and how well it’s maintained. On average, you can expect a heater to last between 3 to 15 years.
Conclusion
Electric space heaters can be a great addition to your home during the cold winter months. They offer a convenient and cost-effective way to provide supplemental heat to specific areas in your home. However, it’s essential to choose a model that best fits your needs and to use it safely. With the right choice and proper use, an electric space heater can help keep you and your family warm and comfortable all winter long.
