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8 Best Radiant and Convection Space Heaters in 2024

As you search for the perfect space heater to warm up your home, you’re likely overwhelmed by the numerous options available. You want a heater that’s not only effective but also safe, energy-efficient, and tailored to your specific needs. With so many features to weigh, it can be tough to make a decision. From advanced safety features to programmable thermostats, the best radiant and convection space heaters offer a range of benefits. But which ones stand out from the rest? Let’s take a closer look at the top contenders that’ll keep your home cozy and comfortable all winter long.

Dreo Space Heater Indoor Portable Heaters for Bedroom

Dreo Space Heater Indoor Portable Heaters for Bedroom  Get it now on Amazon.com

The Dreo Space Heater Indoor Portable Heaters for Bedroom is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a reliable and efficient space heater that can quickly warm up a 200 sq. ft. area.

This heater’s powerful 1500W output and advanced safety features make it a great option. The PTC ceramic element, combined with its thermostat, guarantees consistent heat distribution while preventing overheating.

The remote control, 12-hour timer, and 70° oscillation provide convenience and allow you to direct the warm air exactly where you need it.

The ECO mode and UL94 V-0 flame-retardant materials provide peace of mind, protecting your safety while keeping your energy bills in check.

Best For: Those who want a reliable and efficient space heater for small to medium-sized rooms, such as bedrooms, that prioritizes safety and energy efficiency.

Pros:

  • Powerful 1500W output for quick and efficient heating
  • Advanced safety features, including tip-over and overheat protection, and UL94 V-0 flame-retardant materials
  • Convenient features like remote control, 12-hour timer, and 70° oscillation for directed warm air

Cons:

  • Some users may find the user interface and button layout to be slightly confusing
  • Lack of backlighting for the buttons may make it difficult to use in low-light environments
  • Some users may find the design and color scheme to be not as modern or sleek as other options

Heat Storm Phoenix Infrared Space Heater

Heat Storm Phoenix Infrared Space Heater  Get it now on Amazon.com

Those who need a reliable and efficient space heater for small to medium-sized rooms will appreciate the Heat Storm Phoenix Infrared Space Heater, which offers 5200 BTU heat output and a patented heat exchanger with HMS Technology for maximum heat without heat loss.

You’ll enjoy the convenience of two power modes – 1500W and 750W – and the built-in thermostat with LED display.

Plus, the remote control makes it easy to adjust the temperature from across the room.

With its safe-to-touch design and anti-trip technology, you can have peace of mind.

This heater is perfect for small rooms up to 150 sq. ft. or as a supplemental heat source for larger areas.

Best For: Those who need a reliable and efficient space heater for small to medium-sized rooms.

Pros:

  • Offers 5200 BTU heat output and a patented heat exchanger with HMS Technology for maximum heat without heat loss
  • Features two power modes (1500W and 750W) and a built-in thermostat with LED display for easy temperature control
  • Has a safe-to-touch design and anti-trip technology for added safety and peace of mind

Cons:

  • Some reviewers mentioned a significant increase in their electric bill
  • No specific features or modes for energy-saving or eco-friendliness
  • Weight is 9 pounds, which may be heavy for some users to move around

Dr. Infrared Heater Portable Space Heater with Humidifier, 1500-Watt

Dr. Infrared Heater Portable Space Heater with Humidifier, 1500-Watt  Get it now on Amazon.com

The Dr. Infrared Heater Portable Space Heater with Humidifier, 1500-Watt, is ideal for efficiently warming a 400-square-foot room while also humidifying the air.

This advanced dual heating system combines a PTC and Quartz Infrared Element, providing both radiant and convection heat.

The built-in humidifier silently produces a cool mist to add moisture to dry air, making it perfect for dry winter months.

With energy-saving Auto Mode and a silent ultrasonic humidifier, you’ll stay cozy while keeping your energy bills low.

Plus, it’s certified by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) USA and Canada, ensuring it’s safe around children and pets.

Best For: People who want a safe, energy-efficient, and portable space heater that can also humidify the air, perfect for small to medium-sized rooms.

Pros:

  • Advanced dual heating system combines PTC and Quartz Infrared Element for efficient heating
  • Built-in humidifier produces a cool mist to add moisture to dry air, making it perfect for dry winter months
  • Energy-saving Auto Mode and silent ultrasonic humidifier ensure low energy bills and a peaceful environment

Cons:

  • Limited heating coverage of 400 sq ft, making it less suitable for larger rooms
  • Weighs 23 pounds, which may make it difficult to move around for some users
  • Some users may find the design or color (Cherry) not to their liking

PELONIS Electric Ceramic Tower Space Heater

PELONIS Electric Ceramic Tower Space Heater  Get it now on Amazon.com

Anyone seeking an efficient and quiet space heater that can be controlled remotely and programmed to their preferred temperature will appreciate the PELONIS Electric Ceramic Tower Space Heater.

You’ll enjoy the convenience of its remote control and programmable thermostat, which allows you to customize your temperature settings.

With three heating options – High, Low, and ECO mode – you can choose the energy-efficient setting that suits your needs.

The oscillation feature facilitates wide-range heating, and the 8-hour timer lets you set it and forget it.

Plus, the carry handle makes it easy to move around.

Best For: Those who want a quiet, energy-efficient, and programmable space heater with remote control and customizable temperature settings.

Pros:

  • Energy-efficient with 3 heating options (High, Low, and ECO mode)
  • Quiet operation with a working noise of only 50dB
  • Programmable thermostat with customized temperature settings and 8-hour timer

Cons:

  • Some users have reported a rattling noise during operation
  • Limited temperature control options (only 60-70°F)
  • No additional features beyond the standard heating and oscillation functions

Duraflame Electric Infrared Quartz Fireplace Stove

Duraflame Electric Infrared Quartz Fireplace Stove  Get it now on Amazon.com

If you’re searching for a space heater that can provide supplemental zone heating for up to 1,000 square feet while maintaining natural humidity, the Duraflame Electric Infrared Quartz Fireplace Stove is an excellent choice.

This heater provides 5,200 BTU of warmth, making it perfect for medium-sized rooms.

The infrared quartz heat it produces helps maintain natural humidity, resulting in comfortable heat without drying out the room’s air.

You’ll also appreciate the adjustable digital thermostat, which lets you decide the temperature of your room.

Additionally, the stove’s overheat protection feature guarantees your safety by instantly shutting off the heater to prevent overheating.

Best For: Those who need a supplemental zone heater for medium-sized rooms, prioritizing comfortable heat and natural humidity.

Pros:

  • Provides 5,200 BTU of warmth, suitable for up to 1,000 square feet
  • Infrared quartz heat maintains natural humidity, preventing dry air
  • Adjustable digital thermostat allows for precise temperature control

Cons:

  • Requires assembly, which may be inconvenient for some users
  • Has a relatively high item weight of 28.6 pounds, making it difficult to move
  • Does not come with batteries, as it is a corded electric heater

Lasko Oscillating Ceramic Tower Space Heater

Lasko Oscillating Ceramic Tower Space Heater  Get it now on Amazon.com

For those seeking a reliable and efficient way to warm up a 300 square foot area, the Lasko Oscillating Ceramic Tower Space Heater is an excellent choice, thanks to its powerful 1500-Watt performance and adjustable thermostat.

You’ll appreciate the convenience of its remote control, timer, and oscillation feature, which facilitates even heat distribution.

The heater also features a filter, auto-dimming mode, and exclusive Heat Channels for long-range heat projection.

With its slim and sturdy design, you can easily move it around with the molded handle.

Plus, it’s safe to use around toddlers, with overheat protection and a cool-touch exterior.

You’ll enjoy the whisper-quiet operation and adjustable temperature, making it perfect for any room in your home.

Best For: Those who need to warm up a 300 square foot area and value convenience features like remote control, timer, and oscillation for even heat distribution.

Pros:

  • Powerful 1500-Watt performance with adjustable thermostat for efficient heating
  • Convenient features like remote control, timer, and oscillation for easy use
  • Safe to use around toddlers with overheat protection and cool-touch exterior

Cons:

  • Some users reported a smell when using the heater
  • A few design flaws and reliability issues were mentioned in some reviews
  • Some users were not satisfied with the product’s performance

Honeywell ThermaWave Ceramic Space Heater

Honeywell ThermaWave Ceramic Space Heater  Get it now on Amazon.com

The Honeywell ThermaWave Ceramic Space Heater is the perfect choice for you if you’re looking for an energy-efficient way to warm up small rooms while keeping your heating costs in check.

With its 1500W power and programmable thermostat, this ceramic space heater has two heat settings and a fan-only option, giving you control over the temperature and airflow.

The directional heat control allows you to focus the warmth where you need it most.

With its multiple safety features, including overheat protection and tip-over protection, you can have peace of mind while staying cozy.

By using this heater, you can save up to $276 in heating costs this year, making it a smart investment for your wallet and your comfort.

Best For: Small room occupants, especially those in bedrooms, home offices, or study rooms, who want an energy-efficient and safe way to warm up their space.

Pros:

  • Quiet and effective heating performance
  • Energy-efficient, with potential to save up to $276 in heating costs
  • Easy to use, with digital controls and programmable thermostat

Cons:

  • Some users find it noisy
  • Poor performance reported by some users
  • Expensive, according to some users

Dreo Space Heater with Thermostat and Remote

Dreo Space Heater with Thermostat and Remote  Get it now on Amazon.com

The Dreo Space Heater features 1500W PTC ceramic heating technology, which provides efficient and reliable warmth.

This technology is particularly effective for heating small to medium-sized rooms of up to 200 sq.ft.

The 70° wide-angle oscillation facilitates even heat distribution.

The heater also comes with convenient features such as a 12-hour timer and 24-hour automatic power off.

ETL-certified safety features, including built-in smart tip-over protection and overheat protection, provide peace of mind.

The compact design and hidden handle make it easy to move the heater around.

The remote control with batteries included adds to the overall convenience.

The heater operates quietly and has an energy-efficient ECO mode.

Overall, this space heater is a great choice for your heating needs.

Best For: Those who need to heat small to medium-sized rooms of up to 200 sq.ft. and value energy efficiency, quiet operation, and advanced safety features.

Pros:

  • Provides efficient and reliable warmth with 1500W PTC ceramic heating technology and 70° wide-angle oscillation for even heat distribution.
  • Offers convenient features like a 12-hour timer, 24-hour automatic power off, and remote control with batteries included.
  • Has advanced safety features, including built-in smart tip-over protection, overheat protection, and ETL-certified safety features.

Cons:

  • No specific drawbacks mentioned in the product description or customer reviews.
  • No filter is required, but occasional cleaning with a dust cloth is recommended to maintain performance.
  • The product may not be suitable for larger rooms or areas exceeding 200 sq.ft.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Radiant and Convection Space Heaters

When selecting a radiant or convection space heater, you’ll want to guarantee several key factors to verify you find the right one for your needs.

You’ll need to ponder the size and layout of the room you want to heat, as well as the heater’s power and energy efficiency.

Room Size and Layout

Considering the room’s size and layout is essential when choosing between radiant and convection space heaters, as different heater types excel in specific environments.

A radiant heater is more effective in a small, well-insulated room with a low ceiling, as it heats objects and people directly. On the other hand, convection heaters are better suited for larger, more open spaces.

When choosing a space heater, consider the room’s dimensions, as a general rule of thumb is to use 10 watts of power per square foot of floor area.

If you have a larger room or open-plan space, look for a heater with an oscillation feature, which can help distribute heat more evenly. In rooms with high ceilings, convection heaters may be more effective, as they can heat the air, which then rises to warm the space.

Additionally, consider any obstacles or barriers in the room, such as furniture or partitions, that may block or redirect the flow of heated air. By taking these factors into account, you’ll be able to choose the right type of space heater for your specific needs.

Power and Energy Efficiency

Now that you’ve determined the ideal space heater type for your room, now it’s time to think about the power and energy efficiency you need to heat your space effectively.

A space heater’s power is measured in watts (W), with higher wattage heaters providing more heat and covering larger areas. For instance, a 1500W heater is suitable for 200-400 square feet.

When it comes to energy efficiency, look for features like ECO modes, programmable thermostats, and automatic shut-off timers to minimize energy consumption and reduce heating costs.

You should also consider a heater’s Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER), with higher EER values indicating better efficiency. Some space heaters boast EER values as high as 7.5.

Additionally, features like adaptive heat technology, which adjusts power consumption based on ambient temperature, can further optimize energy efficiency.

Remember to choose a heater that matches your specific heating needs, as undersized heaters may not provide sufficient heat, while oversized heaters can waste energy and increase costs.

Safety Features and Certifications

To guarantee a safe and worry-free heating experience, prioritize space heaters that boast a range of safety features and certifications.

You want to confirm that your space heater won’t become a fire hazard or cause burns.

Look for automatic shut-off features, such as tip-over protection and overheat protection, which will prevent accidents and fires.

Make sure the space heater has been certified by a reputable third-party organization, like UL or ETL, which verifies that the product meets safety standards.

Additionally, check if the space heater has a cool-touch exterior, which reduces the risk of burns and fires.

A protective guard or mesh to prevent accidental contact with heating elements is also a must-have.

Consider space heaters with thermal cut-off, which disables the heater if it overheats, and a fuse or circuit breaker that trips if the heater is overloaded.

Finally, opt for space heaters with a long power cord (at least 6 feet) and a stable, weighted base to reduce the risk of the heater tipping over.

Noise Level and Operation

You’ll want to pay attention to the noise level of your space heater, as some models can be surprisingly quiet, operating at a mere 40dB or lower, making them perfect for bedrooms or living rooms.

Radiant heaters, in particular, tend to be quieter than convection heaters since they don’t use a fan to circulate air, reducing noise levels.

If you’re looking for an ultra-peaceful experience, opt for a heater with a decibel rating of 30dB or lower. Some space heaters even come with a silent or quiet mode that reduces the noise level even further, making them ideal for noise-sensitive environments.

When choosing a space heater, consider the noise level tolerance of the room’s occupants and select a heater with an acceptable noise level. You might want a heater that’s almost silent for a bedroom, but a slightly louder one might be fine for a living room.

Whatever your needs, there’s a space heater out there that can provide the right amount of warmth without disrupting your peace.

Design and Portability

When choosing a space heater, you’ll appreciate a compact and lightweight design that makes it easy to move the heater to wherever you need warmth, and many models fit the bill, weighing between 3-10 pounds and featuring handles for effortless transport.

This compact design also allows for easier storage when the heater isn’t in use, with some models featuring hidden handles or compact shapes for convenient storage.

Some space heaters feature a tower or pedestal design, which can be more compact than traditional heaters while still providing effective heat distribution.

A slim and sturdy design can also improve safety by reducing the risk of tip-overs, with some models featuring built-in tip-over protection and automatic shut-off.

Additionally, portability is influenced by the length of the power cord, with longer cords (typically 6 feet or more) providing more flexibility regarding placement and movement.

Heat Settings and Controls

As you consider radiant and convection space heaters, one key factor is the range of heat settings and controls, which allow you to customize the warmth to your liking.

You’ll want to think about the type of thermostat you need – do you prefer a simple on/off switch or a more advanced thermostat with precise temperature control? Some space heaters come with multiple heat settings, such as low, medium, and high, while others may have a continuous variable control.

Consider how often you’ll be adjusting the heat and whether you need features like a programmable timer or scheduling capabilities.

You should also think about the type of controls you prefer. Do you like the simplicity of a manual dial or the convenience of a remote control?

Some space heaters even come with smart features, allowing you to control them from your phone or voice assistant.

When choosing a space heater, make sure the heat settings and controls align with your needs and preferences. With the right features, you’ll be able to enjoy a comfortable and cozy space with minimal fuss.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Proper maintenance and cleaning of your space heater are crucial to guarantee it runs efficiently and safely, and some models make it easier than others.

When selecting a space heater, ponder the ease of cleaning and maintenance. Look for models with removable filters, grills, or panels that allow for easy access and cleaning. Some space heaters come with washable filters or have a self-cleaning feature, which can save you time and effort.

You’ll also want to ponder the exterior material and design. A smooth, flat surface is easier to wipe down than a model with intricate vents or crevices.

Additionally, some space heaters have a tilt-switch that automatically turns off the heater if it tips over, which can reduce the risk of accidents.

When cleaning your space heater, make sure to unplug it first and avoid using water or liquids, as this can damage the electrical components. By choosing a space heater that’s easy to maintain and clean, you’ll guarantee it runs safely and efficiently throughout the season.

Budget and Value

You’ll need to weigh the total cost of ownership, including the upfront cost of the heater and ongoing expenses like energy consumption and filter replacements, to determine the best value for your money.

When choosing a radiant or convection space heater, consider the cost of the unit itself, as well as the cost of operation, which can range from $10 to $30 per month depending on usage and energy efficiency.

Don’t assume that a higher-priced heater means higher quality or better performance. Research and compare features and customer reviews to make an informed decision.

Factor in the cost of replacement filters, which can range from $10 to $30, into your overall budget. Energy-efficient heaters with features like programmable thermostats and auto-shutoff can provide long-term value by reducing energy costs.

Set a budget and stick to it, and be wary of extremely cheap options that may compromise on safety features or performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Space Heaters Be Used in Bathrooms or Other Humid Areas?

You’re wondering if space heaters can be used in bathrooms or humid areas? Generally, it’s not recommended, as moisture can damage the heater or cause electrical issues, but look for models with specific certifications for humid environments.

Do Space Heaters Have Any Safety Features to Prevent Fires?

You’re right to wonder if space heaters have safety features to prevent fires. Fortunately, many modern space heaters come equipped with automatic shut-off, tip-over protection, and overheat protection to minimize the risk of fires and electrical shocks.

Can Space Heaters Be Controlled Using Smart Home Devices?

You might think smart home control is only for fancy gadgets, but surprisingly, many space heaters can be controlled and scheduled using smart plugs or thermostats, giving you peace of mind and energy efficiency.

Are Space Heaters Energy-Efficient and Cost-Effective?

You’re wondering if space heaters are energy-efficient and cost-effective. Generally, they can be, depending on the type and usage. Look for heaters with high energy efficiency ratings and features like thermostats and timers to minimize waste.

Can Space Heaters Be Used Outdoors or in Garages?

You’re wondering if space heaters can be used outdoors or in garages. Generally, it’s not recommended as they’re designed for indoor use and may not be weather-resistant or safe for outdoor conditions.

Conclusion

As you snuggle up in your cozy haven, the warmth of your new space heater envelops you, banishing the chill of winter.

Imagine sipping hot cocoa by the soft glow of your radiant heater, or feeling the gentle caress of convection heat as you drift off to sleep.

With the perfect space heater, your home transforms into a winter wonderland, where every moment is a cozy retreat from the cold outside.