These small, portable heaters can be placed almost anywhere in the house that flammable materials are not present.
When used as supplemental heat sources, each option can reduce your home’s overall heating bill.
Here, learn what to consider before buying a new space heater for your home.
bee32 / Getty Images
Radiant heaters are best if you want to heat an area very quickly.
Choose the option that best suits your needs depending on thesize of your roomsand expected frequency of use.
Most heaters use between 600 and 1,500 watts of power per hour.
The larger the wattage, the more heat it produces (and the more power it uses).
Utility Costs
How doesheater wattagetranslate into utility bill charges when using space heaters?
Warning
While browsing types of space heaters, pay special attention to their plugs and cords.
These heaters are eitherbaseboard heatersor water- or oil-filled heaters.
Water- and oil-filled heaters are by far the most efficient, and they are generally warm to the touch.
This jot down of space heater provides warmth to someone sitting in front of itpromptly.
If you want heat very quickly, this is a great choice for your home.
However, be aware that there are certain dangers associated with radiant heaters.
Combination Heaters
Combination heatersprovide the best of both options.
They are a good choice for almost any room in your home.
Electric space heaters produce one unit of heat for every one unit of electricity.
That translates into 300 percent efficiency.
Consider these questions when you start shopping.
How Often Will You Use the Space Heater?
These models heat up the air in the room.
How Quickly Do You Need Heat?
Radiant space heaters can warm up a smaller area in a hurry.
Start by browsing the models on a trusted site that includes suitable shipping and return options.
Many models also include thermostats to ensure a consistent temperature during extended hours of use.
Always plug your space heater directly into the wall.
United States Department of Energy.
Tips to Live By: Portable Electric Space Heaters.
Princeton University Office of Environmental Health and Safety.
United States Department of Energy.
Choosing and Installing Geothermal Heat Pumps.
United States Department of Energy.
Portable Space Heater Safety.
United States Department of Energy.